Shoulder Labral Repair Surgery: What You Need to Know Before and After

The shoulder labrum is a crucial component of the shoulder joint, acting as a cushion and stabilizer for the ball-and-socket structure. When the labrum is torn due to an injury or repetitive motion, it can cause pain, instability, and limited mobility. For patients experiencing these symptoms, labral repair surgery may be the best option to restore function and alleviate discomfort.

In this blog, we’ll explore what shoulder labral repair surgery entails, the recovery process, and what you can expect before and after the procedure.

What is the Shoulder Labrum, and Why is Repair Necessary?

The labrum is a ring of cartilage surrounding the shoulder socket (glenoid) that provides stability by holding the ball of the upper arm bone in place. Tears to the labrum can occur due to:

Trauma: Falling onto an outstretched arm or experiencing a direct blow to the shoulder.
Repetitive Overhead Movements: Common in athletes who play sports like baseball, tennis, or swimming.
Shoulder Dislocations: Frequent dislocations can damage the labrum over time.

Types of Labral Tears

SLAP Tear (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior): This tear occurs at the top of the labrum, where the biceps tendon attaches.
Bankart Tear: Typically associated with shoulder dislocations, this tear occurs at the front of the labrum.
Posterior Labral Tear: Less common, this tear happens at the back of the labrum and is often caused by repetitive stress.

Labral repair surgery is often necessary when non-surgical treatments like physical therapy or medications fail to relieve pain and restore stability.

What Happens During Labral Repair Surgery?

Labral repair surgery is usually performed arthroscopically, a minimally invasive technique that involves small incisions and the use of a tiny camera called an arthroscope.

The Procedure

Preparation: The surgeon makes small incisions around the shoulder and inserts the arthroscope to view the joint.
Evaluation: Damaged areas of the labrum are assessed, and the torn cartilage is cleaned and prepared for repair.
Repair: Small anchors are inserted into the bone, and sutures are used to reattach the torn labrum to the socket.

This minimally invasive approach reduces scarring, lowers the risk of complications, and typically results in a faster recovery.

What to Expect Before Surgery

Pre-Surgical Consultation

During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your shoulder, review imaging studies like MRIs, and discuss the procedure in detail. They will also review your medical history and advise on how to prepare for surgery.

Pre-Surgical Instructions

Medication Adjustments: Certain medications, like blood thinners, may need to be paused.
Fasting: Avoid eating or drinking for a specified period before surgery (usually 8-12 hours).
Arrange Transportation: You’ll need someone to drive you home after the procedure.

Being prepared will help ensure a smoother experience on the day of surgery.

Recovery Timelines and What to Expect After Surgery

The recovery process after labral repair surgery is critical to regaining full shoulder function. Below is a general timeline of what you can expect:

1. The First Few Days

Pain and Swelling: You’ll experience some pain and swelling, which can be managed with prescribed medications and ice packs.
Immobilization: Your shoulder will be placed in a sling to protect the repair and allow the labrum to heal.
Rest: Avoid any shoulder movement or weight-bearing activities.

2. Weeks 1-6: Early Healing

Physical Therapy Begins: Gentle passive range-of-motion exercises are introduced to prevent stiffness and improve mobility. A physical therapist will guide you through these movements.
Sling Use: You’ll likely wear the sling most of the time, removing it only for therapy or hygiene.

3. Weeks 7-12: Building Strength

Active Exercises: As the shoulder heals, you’ll start performing active range-of-motion exercises without assistance.
Light Strengthening: Gradual strengthening exercises for the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles will begin.
Continued Physical Therapy: Regular sessions with your physical therapist will help you regain stability and strength.

4. Months 3-6: Returning to Activities

Full Mobility Restored: Most patients regain full range of motion by this stage.
Sports-Specific Training: If you’re an athlete, your therapist may introduce sports-specific exercises to prepare you for returning to play.
Return to Work: For non-physical jobs, you may return as early as 4-6 weeks. For physically demanding work, it may take 3-6 months.

5. Beyond 6 Months: Long-Term Recovery

Full Recovery: Full recovery can take 6-12 months, depending on the severity of the tear and your adherence to therapy.
Preventing Re-Injury: Continued strengthening and flexibility exercises are essential to maintain shoulder health and prevent future injuries.

Tips for a Successful Recovery

Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions: Adhering to post-surgical guidelines is key to avoiding complications.
Be Consistent with Physical Therapy: Your recovery depends heavily on completing your therapy program.
Avoid Premature Activity: Returning to strenuous activities too soon can risk re-injury.
Focus on Nutrition: A balanced diet supports healing by providing the nutrients your body needs to repair tissue.

When to Contact Your Surgeon

It’s important to monitor your recovery and contact your surgeon if you experience:

Severe or worsening pain that doesn’t respond to medication.
Signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or drainage from the surgical site.
Numbness or weakness in the arm or hand.

Is Labral Repair Surgery Right for You?

If you’re dealing with persistent shoulder pain, instability, or limited mobility, labral repair surgery may be the solution. As a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder injuries, Dr. Brian Capogna provides expert care tailored to each patient’s needs. From diagnosis to rehabilitation, you’ll receive comprehensive support to help you achieve the best possible outcome.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 516-627-8717 or visit briancapognamd.com.