What is a common shoulder pathology associated with posterior dislocations?

A reverse Bankart lesion is a frequent pathology associated with posterior shoulder dislocations. This type of lesion occurs when the posterior aspect of the glenoid labrum is avulsed or detached due to the dislocation. During a posterior dislocation, the shoulder’s ball-and-socket joint is forced out of its normal position, often leading to injury of the structures surrounding the joint, particularly at the posterior labrum.

Understanding the mechanism of injury is key in recognizing this condition. In posterior dislocations, which are less common than anterior dislocations, the force tends to push the humeral head backwards, causing stress on the posterior labrum and potentially resulting in the characteristic reverse Bankart lesion. This pathology can lead to increased instability and recurrent dislocations if not properly addressed.

Other shoulder pathologies listed, such as anterior labrum avulsions, subacromial impingement, and rotator cuff tears, are more typically associated with anterior dislocations or chronic overuse injuries, rather than the specific mechanics of a posterior dislocation. Thus, the identification of a reverse Bankart lesion emphasizes the unique injuries that can occur with posterior dislocations of the shoulder.