Specialized Toolkit Series: Shoulder Instability-HAGL/rHAGL Lesions: You May Not See It, But It Sees You!

HAGL/rHAGL Lesions: You May Not See It, But It Sees You!

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Michael O'Brien discussed arthroscopic treatment of haggle lesions, which are capsular avulsions often caused by high-energy trauma like collisions or accidents. Symptoms include pain and instability without crepitus. Diagnosis requires careful imaging, preferably MR arthrogram, and direct arthroscopic visualization. Surgical repair is indicated for symptomatic patients who fail conservative management and can be done arthroscopically using specialized portals and suture techniques to protect the nearby axillary nerve. Anterior, inferior (6 o’clock), and reverse haggle lesions have distinct repair approaches. Outcomes show reduced recurrence and good function, though some loss of external rotation and return-to-sport challenges may occur. Treatment is safe and effective when properly performed.

Asset Caption

Michael J. O’Brien, M.D., FAANA

Keywords

arthroscopic treatment

haggle lesions

capsular avulsions

MR arthrogram

surgical repair