Bankart Lesion

A Bankart lesion is a tear of the anteroinferior labrum of the glenoid, typically caused by an anterior shoulder dislocation. The labrum and its associated inferior glenohumeral ligament (IGHL) are the primary restraint against anterior dislocation. When the labrum tears, the static restraint is compromised and the shoulder is prone to recurrent instability. A bony Bankart includes loss of bone from the anterior glenoid rim — which further destabilizes the joint and significantly affects surgical planning.

History of prior shoulder dislocation (or instability episodes), anterior apprehension and relocation test findings. MRI arthrography or CT scan (for bone loss assessment) are the key imaging studies. The Instability Severity Index Score (ISIS) helps stratify recurrence risk and guide treatment.

Recurrent instability, first-time dislocation in a young contact/overhead athlete, and bony Bankart lesions with significant glenoid bone loss are indications for surgery.

External patient-education references and related OSI pages for additional background:

• Britannica — Shoulder (anatomy)
• AAOS OrthoInfo — patient education library
• OSI glossary — orthopedic terminology in plain language