Labral repair: Restoring shoulder function and reducing pain
Labral repair is a surgical procedure that aims to repair or reconstruct the labrum, which is a ring of fibrocartilage that lines the rim of the shoulder socket. The labrum helps to stabilize the shoulder joint and keep the ball of the upper arm bone in place. Labral tears or damage can result from injury, overuse, or degenerative conditions, causing pain, instability, and limited range of motion. The procedure involves making small incisions in the shoulder and using arthroscopic instruments to remove damaged tissue, reattach the labrum to the bone with sutures or anchors, or replace the labrum with a graft. The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and may take one to two hours. Rehabilitation may include immobilization, physical therapy, and gradual return to activities. Labral repair can help restore shoulder function, reduce pain, and prevent further damage.