Anterior capsulolabral reconstruction of the shoulder in athletes in overhand sports

From April 1, 1985, through June 30, 1987, 25 skilled athletes with shoulder pain secondary to anterior glenohumeral instability that had failed to improve with conservative therapy had an anterior capsulolabral reconstruction. All but one athlete completed a formal rehabilitation program with an average followup of 39 months. The results at followup were rated excellent in 68%, good in 24%, fair in 4%, and poor in 4%. Seventeen patients returned to their prior competitive level for at least 1 year. This operation and rehabilitation program may allow many athletes who participate in overhand activities or throwing sports to return to their prior level of competition.