Shoulder arthroscopy for shoulder instability.

Overview

The arthroscope is a valuable adjunct in the diagnosis and treatment of shoulder instability. Throwing athletes with shoulder pain, and those with subluxation in particular, may require diagnostic arthroscopy to clarify the instability pattern. Labral debridement, if confined to the portion above the equator of the glenoid, can provide symptomatic relief. Arthroscopic stabilization of the shoulder is still in an evolutionary phase. No long-term data exist as to which technique or material provides the most secure fixation. All of these techniques are technically demanding and require a skilled arthroscopist.