Operative repair of anterior instability and rotator cuff tears in athletes

Rotator cuff tears in individuals under age 40 are uncommon; especially rare is the younger patient with a combination of full thickness rotator cuff tear and a Bankart lesion. Operative management of this challenging patient must provide for a "stable" repair of both lesions to allow for optimal rehabilitation. Our surgical preference includes arthroscopic subacromial decompression, rotator cuff repair, and a formal open capsulolabral reconstruction. Based on surgeon preference and skill, a mini-open or arthroscopic repair can be performed. This approach allows for a more aggressive rehabilitation to facilitate a full return to activity levels.