Medium term outcomes of all-suture soft anchors in arthroscopic shoulder stabilisation

There are few studies reporting the outcomes from arthroscopic shoulder stabilisation using all-suture soft anchors. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical outcomes and failure rate for arthroscopic shoulder stabilisation using these anchors. A retrospective cohort analysis of a consecutive series of patients in a single unit undergoing arthroscopic shoulder stabilisation using JuggerKnot all-suture soft anchors by four consultant shoulder surgeons was performed. Exclusion criteria were revision procedures, engaging Hill-Sachs lesions and glenoid bone loss greater than 20%. The primary outcome measure was failure (dislocation or subluxation as perceived by the patient with subsequent revision surgery). The secondary outcome measure was function as assessed by the Oxford Shoulder Instability Score (OSIS). 67 patients with a mean age at the time of surgery of 32.6 years (range 15–55 years) met the inclusion criteria. Median follow up was 34.5 months (minimum 13 months). No patient experienced a postoperative dislocation. However, three patients experienced painful subluxations; two underwent revision arthroscopic stabilisation and one required open stabilisation due to glenoid bone loss. Consequently, failure rate was 4.5%. Mean post-operative OSIS was 39/48 (n = 49). This series supports the use of all-suture soft anchors in arthroscopic shoulder stabilisation. The failure rate compares favourably with that previously reported in literature for conventional anchors. Level IV: Case series with no comparison group.