Our Summary

This research paper examines the recovery rate and timing for athletes who have had arthroscopic superior labral repair, a surgery to fix a common shoulder injury. The researchers reviewed 42 studies involving 1,759 patients, most of whom were male and around 31 years old.

They found that, on average, 77.5% of athletes were able to return to their sport after surgery, and 68.2% were able to perform at the same level as before their injury, typically after about 8.2 months. Athletes who participated in overhead sports, like baseball or tennis, had a slightly lower rate of return (69.9%), and only 55.5% were able to reach their pre-injury level. Athletes involved in collision and contact sports had a 77.2% return rate, with 70.2% able to perform at their previous level.

Military personnel had the highest return rate at 83.4%, with 81.7% able to reach their pre-injury level after roughly 4.4 months. The researchers also compared recovery rates between this type of surgery and another procedure called biceps tenodesis, but found no significant difference.

The study suggests that while a majority of athletes can return to their sport after this type of shoulder surgery, around a quarter of them are unable to do so. However, the rate of return is significantly higher among military personnel.

FAQs

  1. What is the average recovery rate for athletes who have undergone arthroscopic superior labral repair?
  2. How does the return rate of military personnel compare to athletes after arthroscopic superior labral repair?
  3. Is there a significant difference in recovery rates between arthroscopic superior labral repair and biceps tenodesis?

Doctor’s Tip

It is important to follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery after labral repair surgery. This may include physical therapy, rest, and avoiding certain activities that could strain the shoulder. Be patient with the recovery process and communicate any concerns or setbacks with your healthcare provider. With dedication to rehabilitation and proper care, you can increase your chances of returning to your sport or activity at your previous level.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended labral repair are athletes, particularly those involved in collision and contact sports, as well as military personnel. These individuals are more likely to benefit from the surgery and have a higher rate of successful return to their previous level of activity. Additionally, patients who participate in overhead sports may also be recommended labral repair, although they may have a slightly lower rate of return compared to other athletes. Overall, individuals who have a labral tear in the shoulder and are looking to return to sports or physical activities may be good candidates for labral repair.

Timeline

Before labral repair:

  1. Patient experiences shoulder pain, instability, and limited range of motion.
  2. Patient undergoes imaging tests, such as MRI, to diagnose labral tear.
  3. Patient consults with a surgeon to discuss treatment options, including arthroscopic labral repair.
  4. Surgery is scheduled and patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations and preparations.

After labral repair:

  1. Patient undergoes arthroscopic labral repair surgery to repair the torn labrum in the shoulder joint.
  2. Patient undergoes post-operative rehabilitation and physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion.
  3. Patient experiences initial pain and discomfort, which gradually improves over time.
  4. Patient gradually resumes activities and sports, following a structured rehabilitation program.
  5. Patient undergoes follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor progress and ensure proper healing.
  6. Patient gradually returns to full activity and sports participation, typically within 6-9 months post-surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about labral repair include:

  1. What is the success rate of labral repair surgery for athletes in general, and what factors may impact my individual recovery and return to sports?
  2. How long is the typical recovery period following labral repair surgery, and when can I expect to return to my sport at full capacity?
  3. Are there any specific rehabilitation exercises or physical therapy protocols that I should follow post-surgery to optimize my recovery and prevent re-injury?
  4. What are the potential risks and complications associated with labral repair surgery, and how likely are they to occur in my case?
  5. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before deciding on surgery, and what are the potential outcomes of these alternatives compared to surgery?
  6. Will my age, level of physical activity, or type of sport impact the success of the surgery and my ability to return to sports?
  7. How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery, and what signs or symptoms should I watch out for that may indicate a complication or need for further evaluation?
  8. What is the long-term outlook for my shoulder after labral repair surgery, and are there any lifestyle changes or modifications I should consider to prevent future injuries?
  9. Can you provide me with any resources or references for additional information about labral repair surgery, including patient testimonials or success stories?
  10. Are there any specific questions or concerns you recommend I discuss with a physical therapist or sports medicine specialist before and after the surgery to ensure the best possible outcome?

Reference

Authors: Rowe DG, Hurley ET, Bethell MA, Lorentz SG, Meyer AM, Klifto CS, Lau BC, Taylor DC, Dickens JF. Journal: Am J Sports Med. 2025 Mar;53(3):727-733. doi: 10.1177/03635465241246122. Epub 2025 Jan 3. PMID: 39751378