OBJECTIVE: To investigate the feasibility and technical advantages of arthroscopic treatment of recurrent shoulder dislocation and to evaluate the treatment effect. METHODS: From October 2010 to October 2012, 12 cases of recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation were treated by arthroscopy, aged 21-32 years, with repeated dislocations of 3-30 times, combined with physical signs such as muscle atrophy, reduced joint mobility, fear test, anterior and posterior drawer and compression test, and evaluation of the glenoid labrum and joint capsule using imaging data including X-ray, 3D CT and MRI. Arthroscopy was performed under general anesthesia to repair the glenoid labral complex or bony Bankart injury, to treat the Hill-Sachs injury, and to tighten the anterior and posterior capsules. After surgery, functional exercises were performed under the protection of shoulder and elbow sling, and normal activities were gradually resumed in 8-12 weeks. RESULTS: Satisfactory results were obtained in all cases, with satisfactory recovery of joint function. Some cases with mild limitation of shoulder external rotation resumed normal life work and military training after 6 months. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic treatment of shoulder dislocation has unique advantages and definite efficacy. Through microscopic evaluation of intra-articular injury, reconstruction of the injured anterior and inferior stabilizing structures according to the pathological mechanism of joint dislocation, as well as the possibility of dealing with compression fractures behind the humeral head, arthroscopic surgery is safe, minimally invasive, with few complications, low recurrence rate and good functional recovery. The key to successful surgery is patient selection and access establishment. With the popularity of arthroscopic technology, shoulder arthroscopic operation is no longer a problem limiting treatment. It is recommended that patients with first-time and recurrent shoulder dislocations be further examined with 3D CT or MR and considered for arthroscopic surgery if necessary.