Remplissage

Remplissage describes an arthroscopic procedure to reduce the risk of recurrence of dislocation. It may be done in isolation or more commonly as part of an arthroscopic Labral procedure.

Following an arthroscopic remplissage you will have dressings over the small arthroscopic surgical incisions. These remain for 10-14 days after surgery. Drains are not used. Antibiotics are typically given in the immediate post surgical period.

The arm is kept in a sling or brace depending on the specifics of the surgery. This is normally worn for six weeks. You are allowed to take the sling off in a safe environment and do simple exercises as per your doctor and physiotherapist. Pain is usually well controlled and medication to control pain is taken as needed.

Rehabilitation is carried out under the supervision of your doctor and physiotherapist. The rehabilitation is often tailored to the specifics of your surgical procedure. In general you protect the repair by avoiding specific movements and progress over the course of your rehabilitation to regain normal range and then strength in the shoulder. It is necessary to avoid certain movements in the initial period whilst the soft tissues heal to the bone.

Complications are rare and most patients have good outcomes from surgery. Arthroscopic Bankart repair is typically done to prevent further shoulder dislocation. If there is a significant bone injury to the back of the humeral head (Hill-Sachs lesion) the risk of another shoulder dislocation after surgery is further reduced by the addition of a remplissage procedure. Overall recurrence rates are approximately 10%. Slight restriction in internal rotation can occur.