16 studies (3 RCTs, 1 quasi-RCT, and 12 controlled clinical trials) were included in this meta-analysis which compared the efficacy and safety of open versus arthroscopic Bankart repair for recurrent anterior shoulder dislocations. Range of motion, incidence of recurrence, reoperation, and complications were among the outcomes assessed. Although results indicated similar rates of complications between groups, patients who underwent arthroscopic repair experienced significantly greater rates of recurrence and reoperation. However, arthroscopic repair also led to significantly superior recovery of range of motion. These results should be interpreted with caution as lower quality evidence was included in this meta-analysis. Additional randomized controlled trials should be conducted in order to increase the amount of high-quality evidence on this topic.