Long-term results with the Bankart and Bristow-Latarjet procedures: recurrent shoulder instability and arthropathy

Arthrosis of glenohumeral joint after arthroscopic Bankart repair: a long-term follow-up of 13 years

HYPOTHESIS

The purpose of the study was to establish radiologic and clinical occurrence of glenohumeral arthrosis after arthroscopic Bankart repair.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 1994 and December 1998, an arthroscopic Bankart repair was performed in 187 patients at our institution. We were able to assess clinical and radiologic glenohumeral arthrosis in 72 of the 101 patients who met the inclusion criteria (74 shoulders) (71%) after a 13-year follow-up. An additional 9 patients were interviewed by telephone. Radiologic arthrosis was evaluated with the Samilson-Prieto classification and clinical arthrosis with an arthrosis-specific quality-of-life questionnaire (Western Ontario Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder test). In addition, functional impairment was assessed with the Constant score and subjective satisfaction with a questionnaire.

RESULTS

Radiologic arthrosis was diagnosed in 50 of 74 shoulders (68%), with 40 (80%) of them classified as mild. The mean score on the Western Ontario Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder questionnaire was 280 points (85% of the best possible score), which is considered relatively good. The mean Constant score was 78 points, and 75% of the patients were extremely satisfied or satisfied with the final results of operative treatment.

DISCUSSION

The radiologic evaluation and self-assessment of the patients imply that the incidence of glenohumeral arthrosis after arthroscopic Bankart repair is quite common but the symptoms are generally mild and comparable to nonoperative treatment.

CONCLUSION

Arthrosis rarely causes more than minor subjective symptoms or a minor objectively perceived disadvantage during 13 years' follow-up.

Long-term result after traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation: what works best?

Traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation is a common pathology. To inform the patient, it is therefore important to know the natural history of anterior dislocation and the long-term result of conservative treatment versus the long-term results of operative treatment. In this review article, we compare the effectiveness of various anatomical and non-anatomical interventions and between open and arthroscopic surgery. Evaluating of the result, we focused on the recurrence of instability, return to sport, and prevalence of articular cartilage degeneration in the several treatments.

Mini-open latarjet procedure for recurrent anterior shoulder instability

Anterior shoulder instability is a common problem. The Latarjet procedure has been advocated as an option for the treatment of anteroinferior shoulder instability. The purpose of this paper is to explain our surgical procedure titled "Mini-open Latarjet Procedure." We detailed patient positioning, skin incision, subscapularis approach, and coracoid fixation. Then, we reviewed the literature to evaluate the clinical outcomes of this procedure.

The effect of open Bristow-Latarjet procedure for anterior shoulder instability: a 10-year study

Operative procedures are the usual treatment for patients with anterior traumatic shoulder instabilities. Soft tissue procedures, Bankart repair, cannot be performed in some patients. They need Bristow-Latarjet one. We decided to determine midterm results of this procedure in almost all types of anterior shoulder instability, even shoulders with Bankart lesion in non-athletic cases. Thirty patients after Bristow-Latarjet procedure from 1997 to 2007 were followed 2-8 years. Clinical outcomes, consisted of muscle strength, range of motion (mean 8.66 degrees decreased in external rotation with arm in neutral position and 18.33 with arm in 90 degrees of abduction), recurrent instability (no relapse), and Rowe score (mean 77.66) showed good to excellent results. We had no screw-related or neurovascular complications. Thirty percent of cases had signs of mild arthropathy. Although Bankart procedure is the preferred method in patients with isolated Bankart lesion, but we can perform Bristow-Latarjet for all types of anterior traumatic shoulder instability in non-athletics cases with acceptable results.

Bristow-Latarjet and Bankart: a comparative study of shoulder stabilization in 185 shoulders during a seventeen-year follow-up

BACKGROUND

In 2 Swedish hospitals, 88 consecutive shoulders underwent Bankart repair (B), and 97 consecutive shoulders underwent Bristow-Latarjet repair (B-L) for traumatic anterior recurrent instability.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mean age at surgery was 28 years (B-L group) and 27 years (B group). All shoulders had a follow-up by letter or telephone after a mean of 17 years (range, 13-22 years). The patients answered a questionnaire and completed the Western Ontario Shoulder Index (WOSI), Disability of Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH), and SSV (Simple Shoulder Value) assessments.

RESULTS

Recurrance resulted revision surgery in 1 shoulder in the B-L group and in 5 shoulders in the B group (P = .08). Redislocation or subluxation after the index operation occurred in 13 of 97 B-L shoulders and in 25 of 87 of B shoulders (after excluding 1 patient with arthroplasty because of arthropathy, P = .017). Of the 96 Bristow shoulders, 94 patients were very satisfied/satisfied compared with 71 of 80 in the B series (P = .01). Mean WOSI score was 88 for B-L shoulders and 79 for B shoulders (P = .002). B-L shoulders also scored better on the DASH (P = .002) and SSV (P = .007). Patients had 11° loss of subjectively measured outward rotation with the arm at the side after B-L repair compared with 19° after Bankart (P = .012). The original Bankart, with tunnels through the glenoid rim, had less redislocation(s) or subluxation(s) than shoulders done with anchors (P = .048).

CONCLUSIONS

Results were better after the Bristow-Latarjet repair than after Bankart repairs done with anchors with respect to postoperative stability and subjective evaluation. Shoulders with original Bankart repair also seemed to be more stable than shoulders repaired with anchors.

A prospective, comparative, radiological, and clinical study of the influence of the "remplissage" procedure on shoulder range of motion after stabilization by arthroscopic Bankart repair

BACKGROUND

Certain failures of arthroscopic Bankart repairs seem to be related to the presence of a Hill-Sachs defect. It has been suggested that Hill-Sachs lesions can be treated by "remplissage" (filling in) of the defect. The effect of this procedure on the mobility of the shoulder is not known.

PURPOSE

To determine if filling in the Hill-Sachs defect with rotator cuff tendon would modify the range of motion of the operated shoulder.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

A prospective study of 2 patient populations (arthroscopic Bankart repair alone vs Bankart and remplissage) was undertaken after selecting patients using the Instability Severity Index Score (ISIS). Patients with a Hill-Sachs lesion seen on anteroposterior radiographs had a remplissage procedure if this procedure allowed them to obtain an ISIS lower than 4. The main clinical outcome was the range of motion (external rotation at the side [ER1], external rotation in abduction [ER2], internal rotation [IR], and forward elevation), assessed by the difference between each shoulder at 1 and 2 years' follow-up. Complications, recurrence, and the Walch-Duplay scores were noted at the same time. Minimum follow-up was 2 years.

RESULTS

No significant statistical difference was noted in the range of motion between each group: ER1, difference of 4° (P = .22); ER2, difference of 3° (P = .49); anterior elevation, difference of 5° (P = .35); and internal rotation, 2 vertebrae (P = .22). The rate of recurrence was identical in both groups (6.25%). For patients without redislocation, the Walch-Duplay score was excellent (14/17) or good (3/17) in the first group and excellent (12/15) or good (3/15) in the second group. Posterosuperior pain during forceful movements or when tired was noted in one third of patients having undergone remplissage.

CONCLUSION

The remplissage technique did not alter the range of motion of the shoulder compared with Bankart procedure alone; however, one third of patients did experience posterosuperior pain.

Glenohumeral osteoarthritis after arthroscopic Bankart repair for anterior instability

BACKGROUND

Few data on shoulder arthropathy in patients undergoing arthroscopic repair for glenohumeral instability are available.

HYPOTHESIS

Arthroscopic stabilization of Bankart lesions does not prevent the development of postoperative glenohumeral osteoarthritis.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Clinical (Rowe and Constant scores) and radiographic preoperative and postoperative data from 60 patients who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair were compared. Osteoarthritis was graded preoperatively and postoperatively with the Buscayret classification grading system. The average age at surgery was 27.6 years, and follow-up averaged 8.0 years.

RESULTS

The postoperative incidence of osteoarthritis in patients with no preoperative degenerative changes was 21.8% (12 of 55 patients). The incidence of degenerative joint disease of the glenohumeral joint showed evidence of a statistically significant association with older age at first dislocation and at surgery, increased length of time from the first episode to surgery, increased number of preoperative dislocations, increased length of time from the initial dislocation until surgery, increased number of anchors used at surgery, and more degenerated labrum at surgery. A higher number of preoperative dislocations, a greater length of follow-up, and reduced external rotation in abduction influenced Rowe and Constant scores.

CONCLUSION

The number of anchors used and the state of the labrum are the most important factors associated with a higher risk of radiographic degenerative changes. Longer follow-up investigations are needed to draw meaningful conclusions.

A predictive model of shoulder instability after a first-time anterior shoulder dislocation

INTRODUCTION

Management of a first-time anterior shoulder dislocation (FTASD) involves important clinical and policy decisions. Predictive disease modeling can improve the quality of information disseminated in treatment discussions. In this paper, we describe a general-purpose, publicly available model and illustrate its potential as a tool for management of a FTASD.

METHODS

A Markov decision model of the natural history of a FTASD was constructed. Outcome probabilities and effectiveness were derived from the literature or estimated by expert opinion where necessary. Outcomes were the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability index (WOSI) and the probability of a patient experiencing recurrent instability, undergoing surgical stabilization, and having a stable shoulder at 10 years. The model was both internally and externally validated. Outcomes were examined for specific cases.

RESULTS

The model was effectively externally validated against two studies, a Swedish prospective cohort of Hovelius et al and Botonni et al's military cohort. It can produce detailed outcome predictions for individuals; eg, an 18-year-old man has a 77% risk of dislocation in year 1 and a 32% chance of having a stable shoulder in 10 years.

CONCLUSION

Detailed and specific information about prognosis is critical in the management of a FTASD. Disease modeling lends itself well to these needs and allows improved shared decision-making. Our model was externally validated and can predict specific outcomes. As a publically available resource, it will allow physicians to accurately predict the expected outcome of treatment based on covariates, patient demographics, and their own surgical success rates.

Subscapularis function following the latarjet coracoid transfer for recurrent anterior shoulder instability

The Latarjet procedure may be performed with both subscapularis splitting and subscapularis transecting approaches. The subscapularis splitting approach may better preserve subscapularis function and anatomy. The goal of this study was to determine the functional status of the subscapularis after the Latarjet procedure with a subscapularis splitting approach using the quantified belly press test. Thirty patients with traumatic anterior shoulder instability were prospectively enrolled in the study. All patients underwent a Latarjet procedure through a subscapularis splitting approach. Both operative and nonoperative extremities were tested preoperatively with a belly press test using an Isobex muscle strength analyzer (Medical Device Solutions AG, Oberburg, Switzerland). Fifteen patients returned for postoperative Isobex belly press testing at a minimum of 6 months. Average patient age was 23.3 years, and average follow-up interval was 13 months. We detected no significant differences in pre- vs postoperative subscapularis strength in the surgical shoulder (decreased by 0.3 kg [95% CI, -1.0 to 1.7 kg; P=.630]). There was no difference in control vs surgical arm at preoperative (control +0.3 kg stronger; 95% CI, -0.8 to 0.1 kg; P=.124) vs postoperative (control +0.3 kg stronger; 95% CI, -1.1 to 0.5 kg; P=.444) measurements. Neither sex (P=.593) nor surgery in the dominant arm (P=.459) had an effect on recovery of subscapularis strength. Finally, the surgical arm at follow-up was not significantly different from reported height- and weight-based normative values for either men (P=.481) or women (P=.298). This study suggests that subscapularis strength is not significantly altered by the Latarjet procedure with a subscapularis splitting approach.

Arthroscopic Bankart-Bristow-Latarjet procedure: the development and early results of a safe and reproducible technique

PURPOSE

To evaluate the reproducibility and safety of a novel arthroscopic technique combining a Bristow-Latarjet procedure with a Bankart repair and to report the early clinical and radiologic results.

METHODS

Forty-seven consecutive patients with glenoid bone loss and capsular deficiency were treated with this all-arthroscopic technique; six patients had a failed arthroscopic capsulolabral repair. The coracoid fragment was osteotomized, passed with the conjoined tendon through the subscapularis muscle, and fixed in the standing position with a cannulated screw on the abraded glenoid neck. The capsule and labrum were then reattached on the glenoid rim, leaving the coracoid bone block in an extra-articular position. Potential intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded. All patients were reviewed and had postoperative radiographs; 35 had computed tomography scans.

RESULTS

The procedure was performed entirely arthroscopically in 41 of 47 patients (88%); a conversion to open surgery was needed in 6 patients (12%). The axillary nerve was identified in all cases, and no neurologic injuries were observed. No patient had any recurrence of instability at the most recent follow-up (mean, 16 months). The mean Rowe score was 88 ± 16.7, and the mean Walch-Duplay score was 87.6 ± 12.9. The Subjective Shoulder Value was 87.5% ± 12.7%. The bone block was subequatorial in 98% of the cases (46 of 47) and flush to the glenoid surface in 92% (43 of 47); it was too lateral in 1 (2%) and too medial (>5 mm) in 3 (6%). There was 1 bone block fracture and 7 migrations.

CONCLUSIONS

The arthroscopic Bristow-Latarjet-Bankart procedure is reproducible and safe. This procedure allows restoration of shoulder stability in patients with glenoid bone loss and capsular deficiency, as well as in the case of failed capsulolabral repair. Arthroscopy offers the advantage of providing adequate visualization of both the glenohumeral joint and the anterior neck of the scapula, allowing accurate placement of the bone block and screw. Surgeons should be aware that the procedure is technically difficult and potentially dangerous because of the proximity of the brachial plexus and axillary vessels. Training on cadaveric specimens and transition from open to mini-open and, finally, to all arthroscopic is recommended.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Arthroscopic bankart suture-anchor repair: radiological and clinical outcome at minimum 10 years of follow-up

BACKGROUND

There are not many reports in the literature about the long-term outcomes in terms of recurrence and degenerative changes after arthroscopic capsulolabral reconstruction for anterior shoulder instability.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate long-term follow-up (minimum 10 years) of arthroscopic suture-anchor repair for traumatic unidirectional anterior instability, with special emphasis on the radiological evidence of arthritis and clinical outcome.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Forty-two patients (43 shoulders) treated at our institute from 1995 to 1997 were included in the study. Thirty patients (31 shoulders) were available for clinical and radiological examination (71%). The mean follow-up was 10.9 years (range, 9.8-14.3 years). Patients were evaluated preoperatively and after surgery using the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Simple Shoulder Test (SST), and Rowe score. Patient satisfaction was determined by asking the patients if they would do this operation again. Radiological outcome was used to evaluate the incidence and grade of arthritis according to the Samilson-Prieto classification.

RESULTS

At the final follow-up examination, 5 patients (16%) reported an atraumatic recurrent instability, while 2 recurrences (7%) occurred after a major injury. Three of the 7 recurrences occurred 6 years after surgery. All of the patients in the recurrence group except 1 were contact or overhead athletes. Twenty-six patients were satisfied (84%) with the outcome. The SST showed an improvement of shoulder function in 23 cases, the UCLA score improved from 21.8 to 32.1, and the Rowe score showed excellent or good results in 77.3% of cases. Twenty-two patients (71%) were able to return to their preoperative sports level. Radiographic findings showed 9 cases with mild arthritis (29%) and 3 cases with moderate arthritis (10%).

CONCLUSION

The recurrence rate deteriorated with time. Involvement in contact sports and overhead activities appears to be a risk factor for recurrence of instability, although this could not be proved statistically with the numbers available, whereas age, gender, and number of preoperative dislocations did not reveal any correlation with recurrence. Degenerative changes of the glenohumeral joint were noted but had no significant effect on the clinical outcomes.

Anterior shoulder instability with Bristow procedure versus conjoined tendon transfer alone in a simple soft-tissue model

PURPOSE

We compared the Bristow procedure with a conjoined tendon transfer to investigate the role of the sling alone in restoring anterior translation in a simple soft-tissue instability model without bony defects.

METHODS

Ten matched cadaveric shoulder pairs were randomly assigned to receive a Bristow procedure or a conjoined tendon transfer alone. Specimens were tested in a simple soft-tissue model with low load simulating anterior translation of the glenohumeral joint. The conditions (intact, cut, and repaired) and treatments (Bristow and conjoined tendon transfer alone) were compared for anteroposterior translation.

RESULTS

Anterior translation increased from 3.4 +/- 0.6 mm (mean +/- SEM) to 12.0 +/- 1.3 mm after the cut and decreased to 5.2 +/- 0.7 mm with the Bristow procedure. Anterior translation increased from 2.8 +/- 0.4 mm to 12.2 +/- 1.9 mm after the cut and decreased to 4.9 +/- 0.5 mm after conjoined tendon transfer alone. Although the repair increased the stability of the glenohumeral joint as reflected in significantly decreased anterior translation, anterior translation in the repaired joint was significantly greater than that in the intact condition for both procedures (P < .05). There were no significant differences in anterior translation between the 2 treatments at any test stage.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no difference between the Bristow procedure and conjoined tendon transfer alone in restoring anteroposterior translation in a simple soft-tissue shoulder instability model with low load and no bony defect.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Further investigation of the described conjoined tendon procedure should be done to evaluate the procedure with significant bony defects.

Stabilizing mechanism in bone-grafting of a large glenoid defect

BACKGROUND

Conventional wisdom suggests that the glenoid defect after a shoulder dislocation is anteroinferior. However, recent studies have found that the defect is located anteriorly. The purposes of this study were (1) to clarify the critical size of the anterior defect and (2) to demonstrate the stabilizing mechanism of bone-grafting.

METHODS

Thirteen cadaver shoulders were investigated. With use of a custom testing machine with a 50-N compression force, the peak translational force that was needed to move the humeral head and lateral humeral displacement were measured. The force was used to evaluate the joint stability. An osseous defect was created stepwise in 2-mm increments of the defect width. The bone graft was harvested from the coracoid process. The defect size was expressed as the estimated defect size divided by the measured glenoid length. Testing was performed with (1) the glenoid intact, (2) a simulated Bankart lesion, (3) the Bankart lesion repaired, (4) a 2-mm defect, (5) the Bankart lesion repaired, (6) the defect bone-grafted, (7) a 4-mm defect, (8) the Bankart lesion repaired, (9) the defect bone-grafted, (10) a 6-mm defect, (11) the Bankart lesion repaired, (12) the defect bone-grafted, (13) an 8-mm defect, (14) the Bankart lesion repaired, and (15) the defect bone-grafted.

RESULTS

Force and displacement decreased as the size of the osseous defect increased. The mean force after the formation of a defect of > or =6 mm (19% of the glenoid length) with the Bankart lesion repaired (22 +/- 7 N) was significantly decreased compared with the baseline force (52 +/- 11 N). Both the mean force (and standard deviation) and displacement returned to the levels of the intact condition (68 +/- 3 N and 2.6 +/- 0.4 mm, respectively) after bone-grafting (72 +/- 12 N and 2.7 +/- 0.3 mm, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

An osseous defect with a width that is > or =19% of the glenoid length remains unstable even after Bankart lesion repair. The stabilizing mechanism of bone-grafting was the restoration of the glenoid concavity.

Outcome of the open Bankart procedure for shoulder instability and development of osteoarthritis: a 5- to 20-year follow-up study

BACKGROUND

The etiologic factors, time of development, and extent of the progression of postoperative osteoarthritis (OA) in traumatic shoulder instability remain controversial.

HYPOTHESIS

Most OA seen postoperatively occurs before surgery and progresses very slowly.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

Review of 167 joints of 163 patients undergoing the open Bankart procedure, who had no history of shoulder surgery and were younger than 45 years at follow-up, was done at a mean follow-up of 8.7 years (range, 5-20 years). The shoulders were directly examined and radiographed. A statistical analysis was performed to examine the correlation between OA development/progression and patients' demographic characteristics and various factors, and to evaluate the correlation between these factors.

RESULTS

Recurrence of instability occurred in 8 of 167 joints (4.8%). Preoperative computed tomography (CT) showed OA in 44 shoulders (26.3%), among which 12 shoulders (7.2%) showed OA on the preoperative radiographs. Consequently, CT-proven OA in the remaining 32 shoulders was incipient OA that was not revealed radiographically. Radiographs taken at follow-up revealed OA in 30 shoulders (18.0%), of which 24 (80%) had had OA proven by preoperative imaging. Preoperative CT-proven OA in 20 shoulders never became visible on postoperative radiographs. The severity of OA slightly increased in 14 joints (32%) during the postoperative period. The number of preoperative subluxations and the total number of preoperative dislocations/subluxations were significantly greater, and the percentages of male patients and glenoid bone defect greater than 20% of the anteroposterior diameter were higher for the 30 shoulders with postoperative OA.

CONCLUSION

Most postoperatively detected OA developed before surgery. The preoperative factors are profoundly involved in the development of OA. The role of surgery in favoring the OA development appears to be inconclusive. The development and progression of OA cannot be prevented by surgical intervention, but the progression of postoperative OA is extremely slow.

Arthroscopic Bankart-Bristow-Latarjet (2B3) Procedure: How to Do It and Tricks To Make it Easier and Safe

The all-arthroscopic technique that the authors propose combines a Bristow-Latarjet procedure with a Bankart repair. This combined procedure provides a triple blocking of the shoulder (the so-called 2B3 procedure): (1) the labral repair recreates the anterior bumper and protects the humeral head from direct contact with the coracoid bone graft (Bumper effect); (2) the transferred coracoid bone block compensates for anterior glenoid bone loss (Bony effect); and (3) the transferred conjoined tendon creates a dynamic sling that reinforces the weak anteroinferior capsule by lowering the inferior part of the subscapularis when the arm is abducted and externally rotated (Belt or sling effect). The procedure combines the theoretic advantages of the Bristow-Latarjet procedure and the arthroscopic Bankart repair, eliminating the potential disadvantages of each. The extra-articular positioning of the bone block together with the labral repair and capsule retensioning allows the surgeon to perform a nearly anatomic shoulder repair. This novel procedure allows the surgeon to extend the indications of arthroscopic shoulder reconstruction to the subset of patients with recurrent anteroinferior shoulder instability with glenoid bone loss and capsular deficiency. It is an attractive surgical option to treat patients with a previous failed capsulolabral repair for which the surgical solutions are limited.

Arthroscopic latarjet procedure

Although soft tissue stabilization procedures in the shoulder yield good results, arthroscopy and radiological investigations have identified more complex soft tissue and bony lesions that can be successfully treated using a Latarjet procedure. The authors have advanced this technique to make it possible arthroscopically, thereby conferring all the benefits that arthroscopic surgery offers. This article describes how and why the arthroscopic Latarjet procedure is a valuable tool in the treatment of complex shoulder instability and how the procedure can be introduced into practice. This technique has shown excellent results at short- to mid-term follow-up, with minimal complications. As such, this procedure is recommended to surgeons with good anatomic knowledge, advanced arthroscopic skills, and familiarity with the instrumentation.

Normalization of glenohumeral articular contact pressures after Latarjet or iliac crest bone-grafting

BACKGROUND

Multiple bone-grafting procedures have been described for patients with glenoid bone loss and shoulder instability. The purpose of this study was to investigate the alterations in glenohumeral contact pressure associated with the placement and orientation of Latarjet or iliac crest bone graft augmentation and to compare the amount of glenoid bone reconstruction with two coracoid face orientations.

METHODS

Twelve fresh-frozen cadaver shoulders were tested in static positions of humeral abduction (30 degrees , 60 degrees , and 60 degrees with 90 degrees of external rotation) with a 440-N compressive load. Glenohumeral contact pressure and area were determined sequentially for (1) the intact glenoid; (2) a glenoid with an anterior bone defect involving 15% or 30% of the glenoid surface area; (3) a 30% glenoid defect treated with a Latarjet or iliac crest bone graft placed 2 mm proud, placed flush, or recessed 2 mm in relation to the level of the glenoid; and (4) a Latarjet bone block placed flush and oriented with either the lateral (Latarjet-LAT) or the inferior (Latarjet-INF) surface of the coracoid as the glenoid face. The amount of glenoid bone reconstructed was compared between the Latarjet-LAT and Latarjet-INF conditions.

RESULTS

Bone grafts in the flush position restored the mean peak contact pressure to 116% of normal when the iliac crest bone graft was used (p < 0.03 compared with the pressure with the 30% defect), 120% when the Latarjet-INF bone block was used (p < 0.03), and 137% when the Latarjet-LAT bone block was used (p < 0.04). Use of the Latarjet-LAT bone block resulted in mean peak pressures that were significantly higher than those associated with the iliac crest bone graft (p < 0.02) or the Latarjet-INF bone block (p < 0.03) at 60 degrees of abduction and 90 degrees of external rotation. With the bone grafts placed in a proud position, peak contact pressure increased to 250% of normal (p < 0.01) in the anteroinferior quadrant and there was a concomitant increase in the posterosuperior glenoid pressure to 200% of normal (p < 0.02), indicating a shift posteriorly. Peak contact pressures of bone grafts placed in a recessed position revealed high edge-loading. Augmentation with the Latarjet-LAT bone block led to restoration of the glenoid articular contact surface from the 30% defect state to a 5% defect state. Augmentation of the 30% glenoid defect with the Latarjet-INF bone block resulted in complete restoration to the intact glenoid articular surface area.

CONCLUSIONS

Glenohumeral contact pressure is optimally restored with a flush iliac crest bone graft or with a flush Latarjet bone block with the inferior aspect of the coracoid becoming the glenoid surface. Bone grafts placed in a proud position not only increase the peak pressure anteroinferiorly, but also shift the articular contact pressure to the posterosuperior quadrant. Glenoid bone augmentation with a Latarjet bone block with the inferior aspect of the coracoid as the glenoid surface resulted in complete restoration of the 30% anterior glenoid defect to the intact state. These findings indicate the clinical utility of a flush iliac crest bone graft and utilization of the inferior surface of the coracoid as the glenoid face for glenoid bone augmentation with a Latarjet graft.

Arthroscopic Latarjet procedure

HYPOTHESIS

Arthroscopy reveals many previously unrecognized soft tissue and bony lesions underlying recurrent anterior shoulder instability. Certain stabilising procedures however fail to adequately address the underlying pathology. The open Latarjet procedure has shown to have excellent and reproducible results in recurrent instability. We believe that this success can be transferred using an all arthroscopic technique and gain the advantages of minimally invasive surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Since December 2003, we performed over 180 arthroscopic Latarjet procedures. The technique and instruments have been refined and modified during this time. We prospectively collected the results for the first 100 shoulders.

RESULTS

The average patient age was 27.5 with 88% actively involved in sports. Mean return to work was 2 months (7 days-4 months) and return to sport at 10 weeks (21 days-6 months). At 26 months, patient-reported outcomes revealed 91% excellent scores and 9% good. Range of motion showed an average loss of external rotation of 18 degrees . Perioperative complications included 2 hematomas, 1 graft fracture, and 1 transient musculocutaneous nerve palsy. Late complications included 4 cases of graft non-union and 3 of graft lysis. Graft position was flush with the glenoid in 80%, vertical positioning was excellent in 78% (3-5 o'clock).

DISCUSSION

The all-arthroscopic Latarjet is a reliable but difficult technique, with a steep learning curve. Our technique has shown excellent results through midterm follow-up, with minimal complications and good graft positioning.

CONCLUSIONS

We recommend this procedure to those surgeons with good anatomic knowledge, advanced arthroscopic skills, and familiarity with the instrumentation.

Long-term results with Bankart procedure: a 26-year follow-up study of 50 cases

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcome (>20 years) of patients who underwent an open Bankart procedure, many of them contact athletes, in terms of shoulder stability, return to sport, and the development of osteoarthritis.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 49 patients (50 shoulders) who underwent an open Bankart procedure for recurrent shoulder instability. There were 36 contact athletes (73%) in this cohort. Mean follow-up was 28 years (25-32). Clinical examination was performed by an independent reviewer, with standard shoulder radiographs obtained.

RESULTS

Eight patients had recurrence of dislocation after a new traumatic episode, in six cases while playing rugby, with two of them requiring re-operation. Forty (82%) patients returned to their previous level of sports activities, including all 31 rugby players. No statistically significant loss of motion occurred in this group, although there was slight loss of flexion (6 degrees ) and external rotation (9 degrees ). The mean Rowe score at final follow-up was 82 (25-97), and all but two patients considered themselves satisfied with the results of the surgery. Thirty-four (69%) patients showed signs of osteoarthritis at follow-up, as follows: Stage 1 -18, Stage 2 - 5, Stage 3 - 5, and Stage 4 - 1.

CONCLUSION

At long-term follow-up, patients undergoing an open Bankart procedure for recurrent shoulder instability obtained a high percentage of shoulder stability, and reliably returned to high-level sports activities. However, 69% did show radiographic signs of osteoarthritis.

Loss of the sclerotic line of the glenoid on anteroposterior radiographs of the shoulder: a diagnostic sign for an osseous defect of the anterior glenoid rim

BACKGROUND

The integrity of the glenoid defines the surgical treatment in anterior shoulder instabilities. The reliability of plain radiographs to detect anterior glenoid rim deficiencies was determined.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The anterior sclerotic glenoid line (SGL) was assessed on anteroposterior radiographs of 86 shoulders (34 anterior instabilities, 15 posterior instabilities, 37 stable) and compared with computed tomography (CT) scans (gold standard). A loss of the SGL (LSGL) was defined as a positive LSGL sign.

RESULTS

On CT scans, 25 of 34 shoulders (74%) with anterior instabilities showed a defect of the anterior glenoid rim. No defects were found in shoulders without anterior instabilities. LSGL correctly predicted an anterior glenoid rim lesion in 16 (examiner A) or 14 (examiner B) of the 25 anterior instabilities (sensitivity, 64% and 56%), without a false-positive diagnosis (specificity, 100%).

CONCLUSION

The LSGL on anteroposterior radiographs is a moderately sensitive but highly specific finding for anterior glenoid rim defects.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 4; Diagnostic study, case control study.

Glenohumeral arthropathy following stabilization for recurrent instability

Little attention has been focused on the most common risk factors for post-operative glenohumeral arthropathy in patients undergoing open and arthroscopic stabilization. We performed a literature search using Medline, Cochrane and Google Scholar using the keywords: 'Shoulder instability surgery' in combination with 'glenohumeral osteoarthrosis', 'recurrent shoulder dislocation' in combination with 'surgery' and 'complications'. We identified 33 published studies. There is evidence of long-term postoperative glenohumeral arthropathy in patients undergoing surgical management for shoulder instability. The Coleman methodology score showed great heterogeneity in terms of study design, patient characteristics, management methods and outcome assessment and generally low methodological quality. Follow-up length, age at first dislocation episode and limited external rotation have been shown to be strongly associated with shoulder arthropathy. There is no univocal outcome assessment available. To define the risk factors responsible for development of postoperative glenohumeral arthropathy, controversial findings have been detected. A common validated scale for clinical and imaging measurements for shoulder arthropathy is needed, so as to allow easier and more reliable comparison of outcomes in different studies. Patients should receive controlled imaging assessment (MR and radiographs) in addition to clinical examination. There is a need to perform appropriately powered randomized clinical trials comparing clinical and imaging related outcomes in patients undergoing open, arthroscopic and conservative management for shoulder instability. Standard diagnostic assessment, common and validated clinical and imaging scoring systems are needed.

Open reconstruction of large bony glenoid erosion with allogeneic bone graft for recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation

BACKGROUND

Severe glenoid bone loss in recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability is rare and difficult to treat.

PURPOSE

The authors present a surgical technique using allogeneic bone grafting for open anatomic glenoid reconstruction in addition to the capsular shift procedure.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Nine consecutive patients with a history of recurrent anterior shoulder instability underwent reconstruction of large bony glenoid erosion with a femoral head allograft combined with an anteroinferior capsular shift procedure. Preoperative computed tomographic and arthroscopic evaluation was performed to confirm a > or =120 degrees osseous defect of the anteroinferior quadrant of the glenoid cavity, which had an "inverted-pear" appearance. Patients were followed for at least 4.5 years (range, 4.5-14). Serial postoperative radiographs were evaluated. Functional outcomes were assessed using Rowe scores.

RESULTS

All grafts showed bony union within 6 months after surgery. The mean Rowe score improved to 84 from a preoperative score of 24. The mean loss of external rotation was 7 degrees compared with the normal shoulder. One subluxation and 1 dislocation occurred after grand mal seizures during follow-up. These 2 patients regained shoulder stability after closed reduction. The remaining patients did not report recurrent instability. All patients resumed daily activities without restricted motion.

CONCLUSION

This technique for open reconstruction is viable for the treatment of recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability with large bony glenoid erosion.

Glenoid bone deficiency in recurrent anterior shoulder instability: diagnosis and management

Recurrent anterior shoulder instability may result from a spectrum of overlapping, often coexistent factors, one of which is glenoid bone loss. Untreated, glenoid bone loss may lead to recurrent instability and poor patient satisfaction. Recent studies suggest that the glenoid rim is altered in up to 90% of shoulders with recurrent instability, thus underscoring the need for careful diagnosis, quantification, and preoperative evaluation. Biomechanical and clinical studies offer criteria that may be used in both primary and revision settings to judge whether shoulder stability is compromised by a bony defect. Along with patient activity level, these criteria can help guide the surgeon in selecting treatment options, which range from nonsurgical care to isolated soft-tissue repair as well as various means of bony reconstitution.

Anatomic osteochondral glenoid reconstruction for recurrent glenohumeral instability with glenoid deficiency using a distal tibia allograft

The treatment of glenoid bone loss in the setting of recurrent shoulder instability remains a challenge. This is because of the nonanatomic nature and resultant incongruous joint resulting from most bony augmentation procedures. We present a novel technique for the management of glenoid bone deficiency by using a fresh osteochondral distal tibial allograft. We have found that the distal tibia has excellent articular conformity to unmatched humeral heads, fits nearly anatomically on the distal two thirds of the glenoid, is composed of dense weight-bearing cortical and metaphyseal distal tibia bone, and provides for a cartilaginous surface for which the humeral head to articulate. This article describes the technique, initial results, and postoperative findings with the use of a distal tibia allograft (the lateral portion of the distal tibia) for the treatment of glenoid bone deficiency (mean loss of 30%) in a series of 3 patients.

Neer Award 2008: Arthropathy after primary anterior shoulder dislocation--223 shoulders prospectively followed up for twenty-five years

BACKGROUND

Shoulder dislocation may cause arthropathy, but the natural history of this evolution is not well described. We therefore conducted a radiographic follow-up 25 years after the primary shoulder dislocation.

METHODS

A prospective Swedish multicenter study (1978-1979) included 257 shoulders in 255 patients (age, 12-40 years) with a first-time anterior shoulder dislocation. After 25 years, 227 patients (229 shoulders) were alive and had follow-up. Radiographic imaging was performed in 223 shoulders (97%).

RESULTS

Shoulders were normal in 44%. Arthropathy was mild in 29%, moderate in 9%, and severe in 17%. Of the shoulders without a recurrence, 18% had moderate/severe arthropathy. The corresponding figures were 39% for shoulders that recurred once or more (without surgery) and 26% (16 of 62) for surgically stabilized shoulders. Seven of 221 patients (7 of 223 shoulders) were considered alcoholic at 25 years and all had severe arthropathy (P < .001). Other factors that correlated with moderate/severe arthropathy were age older than 25 years at primary dislocation (P = .01) and primary dislocation caused by high-energy sports activity (P = .009). Shoulders that had not recurred had less arthropathy than shoulders classified as recurrent (P = .047) or stabilized over time (P = .007). Sixty-two surgically stabilized shoulders had less arthropathy than those that became stable over time (P = .047). Mild arthropathy at 10 years was associated with moderate/severe arthropathy at 25 years in 19 of 30 shoulders (63%) compared with 13 of 146 (9%) classified as normal at 10 years (P < .001). Joint incongruence at 10 years was associated with moderate/severe arthropathy at 25 years (P = .001).

CONCLUSION

Age at primary dislocation, recurrence, high-energy sports, and alcohol abuse were factors associated with the development of arthropathy. Also shoulders without a recurrence were associated with arthropathy.

Open shoulder repair of osseous glenoid defects: biomechanical effectiveness of the Latarjet procedure versus a contoured structural bone graft

BACKGROUND

To address glenoid bone deficiency, 2 competing surgical approaches are currently recommended: transplantation of a structural bone graft or the coracoid transfer according to Latarjet. Nonetheless, no clear advantages for either procedure are evident.

HYPOTHESIS

The Latarjet procedure will provide an equivalent beneficial effect on glenohumeral stability as the placement of an intra-articular bone graft.

STUDY DESIGN

Controlled laboratory study.

METHODS

Stability testing of 8 cadaveric shoulders was performed in a dynamic shoulder simulator under 4 different conditions: (1) anteroinferior capsulotomy, (2) anteroinferior glenoid defect, (3) transplantation of a contoured bone graft, and (4) Latarjet procedure. Translational movement of the humeral head in response to a load of 25 N was evaluated in the anterior and anteroinferior directions.

RESULTS

The Latarjet procedure significantly reduced translation by 354% relative to the glenoid defect condition at 30 degrees of abduction and by 374% at 60 degrees of abduction. In comparison, the bone graft significantly reduced translation by 179% at 30 degrees of abduction and by 159% at 60 degrees of abduction. The effect of the bone graft was lowest in external rotation at 60 degrees of abduction where a decrease of translation of 133% was observed. Comparing both reconstruction techniques, the Latarjet procedure resulted in significantly less anterior and anteroinferior translation at 60 degrees of abduction.

CONCLUSION

Biomechanically, the Latarjet procedure outperforms the bone graft in reducing translation in anteroinferior glenoid bone defects. The advantage of the Latarjet procedure is particularly evident at 60 degrees of glenohumeral abduction.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

On the basis of the results of this biomechanical study, the authors recommend the Latarjet procedure for restoring stability in shoulders with a significant glenoid bone defect.

Bristow-Latarjet procedure with specific instrumentation: study of 34 cases

A Bristow-Latarjet procedure with specific instrumentation was performed for recurrent dislocation or subluxation of the glenohumeral joint in 34 patients. The procedure was performed through a subscapularis splitting approach with three specific instruments and a special screw. The clinical outcome was assessed by the Duplay and the Constant scores. Radiographic study was conducted on 23 patients and CT scan in 11 patients. Of the 27 patients interviewed 92% were satisfied. Of the 23 patients examined, 15 had an excellent Duplay score, four a good score, three a medium score, and only one had a bad score. One patient had subluxation episodes, and one patient was revised after a redislocation following violent trauma. On the standard radiographs, all bone blocks were in the correct position. A pseudarthrosis was diagnosed in the patient with subluxation episodes. This device simplifies the surgical technique and provides reproducibility to the procedure.

Recurrent anterior dislocation after the Latarjet procedure: outcome after revision using a modified Eden-Hybinette operation

We assessed the results of the modified Eden-Hybinette operation as a salvage procedure after failure of an index Latarjet. Outcomes, complications, and evidence of arthritis of the glenohumeral joint were evaluated in 46 patients. Thirty-four (74%) were clinically and radiologically assessed at a mean of 6.8 years (range, 2-17 years). Good or excellent results were recorded in 27 of the 34 patients (79%). Four patients had another dislocation, and 2 became recurrent dislocators. One required an arthrodesis. Thirteen complained of a sensation of persistent apprehension. Twenty-three (68%) returned to their predislocation level of sport. Two gave up sports entirely. Radiographic evidence of arthritis was present in 6 (18%) before revision surgery. At final review, 10 (29%) had glenohumeral arthritis, graded as moderate or severe in 6 patients. Recurrence after an initial Latarjet procedure may be successfully treated by the modified Eden-Hybinette procedure. Patients may still experience a sensation of apprehension, but this does not appear to be clinically significant.

Arthroscopic salvage of failed arthroscopic Bankart repair: a prospective study with a minimum follow-up of 4 years

BACKGROUND

Data on arthroscopic salvage of failed arthroscopic Bankart repair are lacking.

PURPOSE

To prospectively evaluate the surgical outcome of arthroscopic salvage of failed arthroscopic Bankart repair.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Operations were performed on 10 patients (8 male and 2 female; mean age at revision, 25.6 years; range, 18-41 years). The mean interval from the time of the revision surgery to the final follow-up was 68 months (range, 46-83 months). Objective testing included preoperative and postoperative range of motion. Outcome measures included the rating system of the University of California at Los Angeles. The surgical procedure was performed in a consistent manner: capsular plications, suture anchor repair of the displaced labrum, and, when indicated, rotator interval closure.

RESULTS

The University of California at Los Angeles rating system showed a statistically significant improvement from a preoperative mean rating of 11.7 (range, 6-14) to a mean of 31.7 (range, 29-35) postoperatively (P < .05). All patients had a full and equal postoperative range of motion compared with the preoperative range of motion. One patient experienced recurrent dislocations after the salvage procedure. None of the other 9 patients experienced a recurrent dislocation, with all returning to their previous sports levels.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic Bankart revision surgery is a reliable procedure with respect to recurrence rate, range of motion, and shoulder function in carefully selected patients.

Subscapularis dysfunction following anterior surgical approaches to the shoulder

Subscapularis dysfunction following open surgical exposure of the glenohumeral joint has recently received attention. Clinical studies, in particular those that have investigated the results after open shoulder stabilization or shoulder replacement surgery, indicate that anterior approaches using different subscapularis tendon take-down or incision techniques may impair subscapularis recovery and can negatively influence the final clinical outcome. This review article will focus on the potential pathogenesis, diagnosis, and clinical impact of this more and more recognized condition and summarizes the currently available literature.

Long-term outcome of anterior stabilization of the shoulder

This study reports long-term experience with anterior shoulder capsule stabilization by performing the Bankart repair when labral tearing was present with a laterally based T-capsule repair in both primary and revision surgery. Between 1979 and 1983, 34 patients underwent this procedure. They were categorized into a primary group of 22 patients and a revision group of 12 patients who had previous surgery to correct anterior shoulder instability. Patients completed our shoulder questionnaire and a Rowe questionnaire. The mean follow-up was 22 years (range, 11-27 years). No recurrent dislocations developed, 4 patients reported shoulder subluxation, and 11 felt apprehension. No patient had further anterior instability surgery. Two received total shoulder arthroplasty. Postoperative average pain was 1.6, average strength was 9.0, and average satisfaction was 8.3 (1-10 scales). Active elevation averaged 169 degrees, external rotation, 65 degrees; and internal rotation was to T12. There was an average of 10.2 "yes" responses on the Simple Shoulder Test. The total American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score averaged 84.3. Applying the Rowe rating, results were excellent in 16, good in 10, fair in 2, and poor in 4. Ratings were better in the primary surgery group (P = .0535). The use of this procedure for correction of shoulder instability can prevent recurrent dislocation, but some degree of instability remains. Clinically important arthritis seldom develops.

The arthroscopic Latarjet procedure for the treatment of anterior shoulder instability

Anterior instability is a difficult clinical problem that is treated by a variety of open and arthroscopic methods with good results. Bankart repair remains a popular option. However, in those situations involving irreparable ligamentous damage or bony deficiency, this technique may be insufficient to stabilize the shoulder. One of the principal methods of open treatment for this problem is the Latarjet procedure, as described in his article in 1954. It has proven to be a durable and reliable method of treatment for anteroinferior instability of the glenohumeral joint. Several authors have reported on the long-term outcomes of this procedure with satisfactory results. There has been no previous description of the Latarjet procedure being performed arthroscopically. We present the first report of a new surgical technique, the arthroscopic Latarjet procedure. This procedure is fully arthroscopic and combines the advantages of the open procedure with those of arthroscopic stabilization. This is a significant step forward in the development of arthroscopic shoulder reconstruction and enables shoulder surgeons to treat all cases of instability arthroscopically.

Documentation of dislocation arthropathy of the shoulder "area index": a better method to objectify the humeral osteophyte?

We suggest a method to validate the Samilson-Prieto classification system of dislocation arthropathy of the shoulder. Based on a mean standard sagital measure of the humeral head, we calculate an area index for the humeral osteophyte. The application of this method is done on a previous published series of 56 shoulders with a follow-up time of 15 years minimum after surgery with the Bankart or Bristow repairs. This technique of evaluation showed that the Bristow shoulders had a higher mean area index value on all radiological projections compared to the Bankart shoulders. The highest index was found on AP radiogrammes angulated 45 degrees from above with the arm in neutral rotation (subcoracoid view) followed by the AP view in inward rotation. Our observations indicate that the humeral osteophyte mostly has its largest size at 4 to 5 o'clock position, as visualized with its greatest index on the subcoracoid view. Mild arthropathy, according to Samilson-Prieto, had a mean osteophyte area index of 3.7 (standard deviation, 3.4) on the AP inward rotation view. The corresponding figures for moderate arthropathy were 10.6 (standard deviation, 13.3) and 30.3 for severe (standard deviation, 24.1), respectively. The use of this index, based on the AP view in inward and outward rotation, will make future comparisons between different series of patients more reliable than using just the Samilson-Prieto classification. The radiological change over time should also be more appropriately described. Furthermore, this paper emphasizes the importance of using the same radiological views when dislocation arthropathy of the shoulder is documented.

Results of modified Latarjet reconstruction in patients with anteroinferior instability and significant bone loss

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to analyze the results of the modified Latarjet procedure for shoulder instability associated with an inverted-pear glenoid (bone loss of at least 25% of the width of the inferior glenoid) or an engaging Hill-Sachs lesion.

METHODS

From March 1996 to December 2002, 102 patients underwent an open Latarjet procedure for shoulder instability with an inverted-pear glenoid, with or without an associated engaging Hill-Sachs lesion, by the 2 senior authors (S.S.B. and J.F.D.), and 47 of them were available for follow-up physical examination. The remaining 55 patients were contacted by telephone or letter to see if they had had recurrent dislocation or subluxation. The mean age of the patients was 26.5 +/- 6.6 years (range, 16 to 41 years). There were 46 male patients and 1 female patient. Preoperatively, mean forward elevation was 177.2 degrees +/- 13.6 degrees (range, 90 degrees to 180 degrees) and mean external rotation with the arm at the side was 55.3 degrees +/- 16.1 degrees (range, 0 degrees to 80 degrees). All patients had a positive apprehension sign preoperatively. The median number of dislocations before surgery was 6, with 20 patients having had more than 15 dislocations preoperatively.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up time for the 47 patients who were personally examined was 59.0 +/- 18.5 months (range, 32 to 108 months). Postoperatively, mean forward elevation was 179.6 degrees +/- 2.0 degrees (range, 170 degrees to 180 degrees; gain of 2.4 degrees) and external rotation with the arm at the side was 50.2 degrees +/- 12.6 degrees (range, 22 degrees to 78 degrees; loss of 5.1 degrees). As for postoperative functional scores, the mean Constant score was 94.4 and the mean Walch-Duplay score was 91.7. None of these 47 patients showed any further dislocation, and 1 of them still had a positive apprehension sign (2.2%) indicating subluxation. However, 4 patients out of the total 102 who underwent the modified Latarjet procedure had a recurrence. With 4 recurrent dislocations and 1 recurrent subluxation, there was a 4.9% recurrence rate. The 4 patients with recurrent dislocations were not among the 47 who returned for personal follow-up evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS

The 2 senior authors (S.S.B. and J.F.D.) have previously reported an unacceptably high recurrence rate (67%) for arthroscopic Bankart repair in the presence of an inverted-pear glenoid with or without an engaging Hill-Sachs lesion. They have recommended an open modified Latarjet procedure in such patients. The present study confirms the validity of that recommendation, because the same 2 surgeons have had only a 4.9% recurrence rate in that same category of patient at a mean follow-up of 59 months. Furthermore, the results of this study show the efficacy of the modified Latarjet procedure in the extremely challenging category of patients who present with such dramatic bone loss that soft-tissue reconstruction, either open or arthroscopic, is not a reasonable option.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

The open modified Bankart procedure

We report the outcome of a modified Bankart procedure using suture anchors in 31 patients (31 shoulders) with a mean follow-up of 11 years (10 to 15). The mean age of the patients was 28 years (16 to 39). At follow-up, the mean Rowe score was 90 points (66 to 98) and the Constant score was 96 points (85 to 100). A total of 26 shoulders (84%) had a good or excellent result. The rate of recurrence varied between 6.7% and 9.7% and depended on how recurrence was defined. Two patients had a significant new injury at one and nine years, respectively after operation. The overall rate of instability (including subluxations) varied between 12.9% and 22.6%. All patients returned to work, with 29 (94%) resuming their pre-operative occupation and level of activity. Mild radiological osteoarthritis was seen in nine shoulders (29%) and severe osteoarthritis in one.

We conclude that the open modified Bankart procedure is a reliable surgical technique with good long-term results.

Arthroscopic Bristow procedure for anterior instability in shoulders with a stretched or deficient capsule: the "belt-and-suspenders" operative technique and preliminary results

PURPOSE

We report the results of a new technique consisting of a combined arthroscopic Bankart repair associated with a transfer of the coraco-biceps tendon to reinforce the deficient anterior capsule by lowering the subscapularis.

METHODS

The procedure combines 2 parts: an arthroscopic Bankart repair, which recreates the glenoid concavity and retensions the inferior glenohumeral ligament (i.e., "the belt," or intra-articular ligamentoplasty), and an arthroscopic transfer of the conjoined tendon with a coracoid fragment, to reinforce the stretched or torn inferior glenohumeral ligament (i.e., "the suspenders," or extra-articular ligamentoplasty). The coracoid fragment is exteriorized, shaped, and calibrated, and a tenodesis of the coraco-biceps tendon is performed above the subscapularis tendon by fixing the coracoid fragment with a bioabsorbable interference screw in a glenoid socket in the scapular neck. Thirty-six patients were available for clinical and radiographic review with a minimum 1-year follow-up.

RESULTS

Of the patients, 28 (78%) were very satisfied, 5 (14%) were satisfied, and 3 (8%) were disappointed. In comparison to the contralateral shoulder, postoperative mobility revealed no loss of active anterior elevation, a mean deficit of 9 degrees in external rotation with the arm at the side, a mean deficit of 15 degrees in external rotation in abduction, and no loss of internal rotation. The mean Walch-Duplay score was 87 points. Failures occurred in 3 patients (8%) who presented with recurrent instability.

CONCLUSIONS

This new intra- and extra-articular combined technique constitutes an alternative in the treatment of anterior shoulder instability in patients with deficient or stretched anterior capsule. It combines the theoretic advantages of the Bristow bone-block procedure and the arthroscopic Bankart repair while eliminating the potential disadvantages of each.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Comparison of outcomes of two different surgeries in regarding to complications for chronic anterior shoulder instability

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study is to compare the early clinical results of two techniques in regarding to complications in the patients who suffered from chronic anterior traumatic isolated shoulder instability.

METHOD

Eighty-five patients underwent reconstructive procedures due to chronic isolated traumatic shoulder instability in our clinic between 1990 and 2002. Sixty-four patients in whom preoperatively Bankart lesion were detected with MRI and who participated in the regular follow-up were included in the study. Thirty-four patients were treated with Bankart repair (Group I) and 30 patients were treated with Modified Bristow procedure (Group II). Mean follow-up period was 25 (24-39) months for group I and 28 (24-96) months for group II. All cases were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively according to Rowe scoring system.

RESULTS

Mean Rowe scores were 90 and 88.1 for group I and II, respectively. Due to recurrent dislocation, four revision surgeries (one in group I, three in group II) were performed. Surgical complications were encountered in group II, just as fracture at the bone block in four cases, nonunion in five cases and removal of loose screw in one case.

DISCUSSION

According to clinical outcomes, both the techniques are useful and feasible for the treatment of the chronic traumatic isolated anterior shoulder instability; however, complication rate is higher in the Modified Bristow technique and, Bankart repair is directed to the anatomic repair of the original pathology.

The effect of total shoulder arthroplasty on self-assessed deficits in shoulder function in patients with capsulorrhaphy arthropathy

The objective of this study was to characterize self-assessed functional deficits before and after total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) in a consecutive series of 24 patients treated for capsulorrhaphy arthropathy. Deficits were determined by use of the Simple Shoulder Test. The effects of age, type of original stabilization surgery, duration of time since the initial repair, and pattern of glenoid erosion were analyzed. Deficits were significantly reduced from 8.5 to 4 of 12 SST items after TSA (P = .003). Items related to motion and function had the largest effect on improvement. Age did not affect results. There was a trend toward greater improvement in patients whose original stabilization was less than 20 years previously (P = .06) and in those with concentric glenoid erosion (P = .06). A prior Bristow procedure was associated with the least improvement. Overall, TSA was an effective treatment for capsulorrhaphy arthropathy at midterm follow-up. Restoring range of motion appears to have the largest impact on improvement in function.

Postoperative subscapularis muscle insufficiency after primary and revision open shoulder stabilization

BACKGROUND

Postoperative subscapularis muscle insufficiency after open shoulder stabilization procedures represents an unrecognized condition.

HYPOTHESIS

Primary and revision open shoulder stabilization using the inverted L-shaped tenotomy approach impairs subscapularis muscle recovery and affects final clinical outcome.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

Twenty-five patients who underwent primary (group 1: n = 13; mean age, 36.5 years; follow-up, 48 months) or revision (group 2: n = 12; mean age, 34.2 years; follow-up, 52 months) open shoulder stabilization procedures were followed up clinically (clinical subscapularis tests and signs, Constant score, and Rowe score) and by magnetic resonance imaging (tendon integrity, defined muscle diameters, and signal intensity analysis [ratio infraspinatus/upper subscapularis muscle and infraspinatus/lower subscapularis muscle]). A third group (group 0) of 12 healthy volunteers served as a control.

RESULTS

Clinical signs for subscapularis muscle insufficiency were present in 53.8% of cases in group 1 and 91.6% of cases in group 2. There were no significant differences between groups with regard to Constant and Rowe scores (P > .05). On magnetic resonance imaging, no complete tendon ruptures were found. The mean vertical diameter of the subscapularis muscle and the mean transverse diameter of the upper subscapularis muscle portion were significantly greater in group 0 than in group 1 and greater in group 1 than in group 2 (P < .05). The mean transverse diameter of the lower subscapularis muscle was comparable in all groups (P > .05). The signal intensity analysis revealed the infraspinatus/upper subscapularis muscle ratio was greater in group 0 than in group 1 and greater in group 1 than in group 2 (P < .05). The infraspinatus/lower subscapularis muscle ratio was lower in group 0 than in groups 1 and 2 (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Open shoulder stabilization using an inverted L-shaped tenotomy approach may lead to atrophy and fatty infiltration, particularly of the upper part of the subscapularis muscle, resulting in postoperative subscapularis muscle insufficiency. Revision procedures using the same approach may further compromise clinical subscapularis muscle function and structure. The lower portion of the subscapularis muscle seems to have a compensating effect that may, in addition to a meticulous capsulolabral reconstruction, account for the uncompromised overall clinical outcome.

Glenoid defect associated with anterior shoulder instability: results of open Bankart repair

The purpose of the study was to analyse the clinical results of an open Bankart repair for anterior instability in patients with a glenoid defect and those without a glenoid defect, and to identify factors related to the glenoid defect associated with anterior instability. The prospective study involved 20 patients with a glenoid defect (glenoid defect group) and 20 patients without a glenoid defect (control group) who were enrolled after an open Bankart repair. The average age of each group at the time of surgery was 28 and 23 years respectively. The average follow-up periods were 48 and 55 months. There were no significant differences in subjective pain and stability between the two groups. But the final Rowe score decreased significantly as the size of the glenoid defect increased. Redislocation or subluxation was seen in three patients in the glenoid defect group. The open Bankart procedure restored stability and improved shoulder functions in the patients with a glenoid defect associated with anterior instability, even though the glenoid defect group experienced a significant loss in the range of external rotation with the arm at the side, and the final outcome of the surgery depended upon the size of a glenoid defect. This was a therapeutic, level III case-control study.

One hundred eighteen Bristow-Latarjet repairs for recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder prospectively followed for fifteen years: study II-the evolution of dislocation arthropathy

Dislocation arthropathy after surgical treatment of recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder has been a subject of discussion over the years. The objective of this prospective study was to evaluate the Bristow-Latarjet repair at 2 and 15 years after surgery with respect to arthropathy and to evaluate factors responsible for this development. At 2 and 15 years after a Bristow-Latarjet repair for recurrent anterior dislocation, we prospectively analyzed the radiographs of 115 of 118 shoulders. The majority of the patients also had radiography of the nonindex shoulder (111/118). Dislocation arthropathy was found on ordinary anteroposterior views in 46 of 115 shoulders (mild in 39, moderate in 5, and severe in 2). The anteroposterior view angulated 45 degrees from above gave the best visualization of the humeral osteophyte and, together with the axial view, doubled the incidence of moderate and severe arthropathy at follow-up (mild in 40, moderate in 11, and severe in 5). Of 38 shoulders with a postoperative position of the transferred coracoid process 2 to 4 mm medial to the glenoid rim and the screw and transplant parallel to the glenoid, 3 had moderate arthropathy (8%) compared with 8 shoulders with moderate arthropathy and 5 with severe arthropathy out of 77 shoulders with a nonoptimal position of the coracoid (17%) (P = not significant). The degree of restriction of outward rotation at 2 years did not influence the degree of arthropathy after 15 years. Global assessment of the operative result was not related to arthropathy at follow-up. When the first dislocation occurred before age 23 years, the incidence of arthropathy was significantly lower than when it occurred in age 23 years or older (P = .006). When all views were included, moderate or severe dislocation arthropathy was found in 14% of the shoulders, and a further 35% had mild arthropathy. When follow-up studies of operated series of shoulder dislocations with the Bristow-Latarjet method are done, it is important to have the same radiologic views to compare the incidence of dislocation arthropathy correctly.

The modified Bristow procedure for anterior shoulder instability: 26-year outcomes in Naval Academy midshipmen

BACKGROUND

Many procedures have been proposed for the correction of anterior shoulder instability. Some of these procedures address the problem anatomically, such as the Bankart procedure, and some prevent instability nonanatomically, such as the Bristow-Latarjet procedure. A modified Bristow procedure was the procedure of choice for anterior shoulder instability among midshipmen at the United States Naval Academy from 1975 to 1979.

HYPOTHESIS

The modified Bristow procedure for anterior shoulder instability provides good shoulder function and stability in the long term.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

There were 52 shoulders in 49 patients reviewed at a mean follow-up of 26.4 years. The Rowe score, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index were used to assess outcomes.

RESULTS

The mean Rowe score was 81.8 (range, 5-100), and the mean Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score was 82.9 (range, 30-100), with an overall Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation of 71.2% (37 of 52 shoulders) rated as good and excellent. The mean Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index was 376 of 2100 (range, 0-1560). Overall, recurrent instability occurred in 8 of 52 shoulders (15.4%), with recurrent dislocation in 5 shoulders (9.6%) and recurrent subluxation in 3 shoulders (5.8%). The mean time to recurrent dislocation was 7.0 years.

CONCLUSION

This study represents the longest follow-up in the literature of the modified Bristow procedure. The authors have shown nearly 70% good and excellent results and recurrent instability comparable with other long-term follow-up studies of open instability procedures.