Remplissage Procedure
An arthroscopic technique that fills a bone defect on the back of the shoulder ball to prevent it from catching and dislocating again.
About this procedure
During a dislocation, the shoulder ball can develop a dent on its back surface. When this dent catches on the socket edge, the shoulder keeps slipping out. The remplissage fills that defect by anchoring nearby tendon and capsule into it, which stops the dent from engaging and adds stability.
Dr. Sonntag often combines a remplissage with a Bankart repair when a patient has both a labral tear and this specific bone dent. He determines the need based on imaging and the size of the defect, adding the technique when the dent is large enough to contribute to ongoing instability.
What to expect
- Arthroscopic technique through small incisions
- Fills the bone defect to prevent catching
- Often paired with a Bankart repair for added stability
- Reduces the risk of recurrent dislocation*
Recovery mirrors that of a Bankart repair, with a sling for about four to six weeks and a return to full activity commonly around four to six months.*
Care with Dr. Jeffrey R. Sonntag
Dr. Jeffrey R. Sonntag, DO is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in shoulder and elbow surgery, practicing at OSMC in Granger, IN, Elkhart, IN, Middlebury, IN.
View education, fellowship training, and credentialsLet's get you moving again.
Request a consultation and Dr. Sonntag's team will be in touch, typically within one business day. Most major insurance accepted.