Should teens get surgery after first shoulder dislocation? new study aims to find out

NCT ID NCT07459777

Not yet recruiting Disease control Sponsor: McMaster University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This pilot study will test whether early arthroscopic surgery or standard rehabilitation (immobilization followed by physical therapy) is better for teens aged 12-18 who have dislocated their shoulder for the first time. The goal is to see which approach reduces the chance of repeat dislocations, pain, and shoulder problems over one year. Only 30 participants will be enrolled to check if a larger trial is feasible.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Arthroscopic stabilization (surgery) or rehabilitation (immobilization and physical therapy)
What this could lead to: If successful, this pilot could pave the way for a larger trial that may show early surgery reduces repeat dislocations and long-term shoulder damage in teens.
What could go wrong: This is a very small pilot study (30 participants) testing feasibility, not effectiveness. Results may not apply to all teens, and surgery carries standard surgical risks like infection or stiffness.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Shoulder Dislocation

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

SHOULDER DISLOCATION

Contacts and locations

Locations

McMaster University

Hamilton, Ontario, L8N3Z5, Canada

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.