Arthroscopic Technique for Headless Compression Screw Fixation of Large Bony Bankart Fractures in Anterior Shoulder Instability

Abstract

A bony Bankart fracture is a common injury pattern in anterior shoulder instability. The fracture fragment size varies and the larger the fragment the more likely recurrent instability will occur. When a large bony Bankart fracture is present, surgical fixation is preferred. Both open and arthroscopic approaches exist with multiple fixation techniques including anterior-to-posterior screw fixation, suture anchor bridge fixation, and suture button fixation. Arthroscopic screw fixation is difficult, as the angle necessary to be parallel to the glenoid surface requires a far medial start point and places the nerve at risk. The use of a variable-pitch, headless compression screw placed from posterior to anterior avoids these risks. We describe an arthroscopic technique for glenoid fixation using a posterior-to-anterior, cannulated, variable-pitch headless compression screw for the treatment of an anterior BBF.