Humeral Avulsion of the Glenohumeral Ligament: Indications for Surgical Treatment and Outcomes-A Systematic Review

Surgical Management of Humeral Avulsion of the Glenohumeral Ligament Injuries: Indications, Treatment Strategies, and Outcomes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review aims to synthesize current knowledge on humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesions, emphasizing clinical presentation, operative indications, and surgical outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS

HAGL lesions play an important role in shoulder instability, occurring in 7.5%-9.4% of surgically treated cases, with a high propensity to cause recurrent instability if left untreated. The sensitivity of magnetic resonance imaging for detecting HAGL lesions remains imperfect (50%- 83%), making arthroscopy the diagnostic gold-standard. Primary instability is the most common surgical indication (up to 82% of cases). Surgical repair, whether open or arthroscopic, yields excellent outcomes, with return to sport (RTS) rates of 81%- 100% and recurrent instability rates as low as 0%- 5.6%. Athletes may not always RTS at the same level (44%- 80%), however, and recurrent instability rates are higher in collision athletes (up to 21%). Limited data suggest a high incidence of recurrent instability in nonoperatively managed cases (up to 90%), although data on ideal indications for nonoperative management are lacking. HAGL lesions are an important yet often under-recognized cause of shoulder instability. Surgery is indicated in most cases due to its positive results, though comparative data between arthroscopic and open approaches are limited. Future research should refine imaging accuracy, directly compare arthroscopic versus open approaches, and enhance rehabilitation to improve pre-injury RTS rates.

Floating Inferior Glenohumeral Ligament: A Case Report

A humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL lesion) is a relatively rare pathology seen in patients with traumatic anterior shoulder instability. A HAGL lesion combined with a Bankart lesion is called a floating inferior glenohumeral ligament (IGHL) and is rare. We report a case of floating IGHL that could not be diagnosed before surgery. A 32-year-old female presented with a fourth dislocation and underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair with the use of a flexible curved guide. During Bankart repair, the tip of the flexible drill was broken. We removed it under general anesthesia later. She had no recurrence three years after surgery and enjoyed skateboarding as a hobby.

Patients return to sport after repair of anterior humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament lesions: a systematic review

Background

Anterior humeral avulsions of the glenohumeral ligament (aHAGL) lesions are relatively rare causes of shoulder instability that affect athletes at a higher rate than other populations. The purpose of this study is to evaluate rate of return to sport (RTS) after HAGL repair.

Methods

A search of the PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases was conducted on April 13, 2022 with the search terms "HAGL" or "humeral avulsion glenohumeral ligament" was used to conduct the systematic review. Inclusion criteria required that lesions were limited to aHAGL, axillary pouch or central HAGL, or both anterior and posterior HAGL lesions as specified by lesion description or direction of instability.

Results

Screening and full-text manuscript review identified 7/967 studies eligible for inclusion with a total of 46 aHAGL lesions in athletes. Average rate of RTS was 93.5% (standard deviation [SD] = 13.4%, n = 43/46) with rate of RTS at previous levels of play averaging 80.0% (SD = 22.1%, n = 28/35). Neither rates of concomitant procedures nor concomitant pathology were associated with variation in RTS rates overall or level of RTS. Weighted average Rowe, subjective shoulder value, and Constant scores were 87.5 (SD = 4.9), 86.0 (SD = 2.0), and 82.2 (SD = 5.1), respectively, and 78.6% (n = 22/28) of patients reported postoperative satisfaction or "good/excellent" ratings following aHAGL repair. Adverse events occurred in 18.5% of patients (n = 10/54), most frequently recurrent instability (n = 3/54). Ultimately, 6.2% of patients eventually underwent reoperation (n = 3/17).

Conclusion

As with other forms of anterior shoulder instability, RTS rates after aHAGL repair are high and many patients achieve their previous level of play. The most frequent adverse event was subjective recurrent instability with reoperation in 6.2% of patients. The findings from this study provide valuable pooled data on outcomes specific to aHAGL repair, particularly in the athlete population, and contribute to further understanding of outcomes regarding operative management of this rare pathology.

Long-term Outcomes After Open Repair of Humeral Avulsion of the Glenohumeral Ligament

Background

There is a lack of data regarding the long-term clinical outcomes of open repair of humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL).

Purpose

To examine the long-term patient outcomes, prevalence of related shoulder lesions, and return to sports in patients who have had open HAGL repair.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Included were 47 patients who underwent open repair of an HAGL lesion between 1995 and 2013. Clinical results were assessed using the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI). Recurrence of instability, additional surgeries, confidence in the shoulder, level and type of sport before and after surgery, and return to sports were documented.

Results

The mean follow-up duration was 105 months (range, 16-247 months). The mean postoperative WOSI score was 410. Postoperatively, 10 patients experienced a recurrence of instability. Subgroup analysis of patients who reported recurrence demonstrated significantly worse WOSI scores compared with patients who did not experience recurrence (730 [95% CI, 470-990] vs 320 [95% CI, 210-430], respectively; P = .007). Before surgery, 33 patients participated in competitive sports, compared with 22 patients after surgery. No postoperative neurologic or vascular complications were recorded. In 51% of patients, a labral tear was noted as a concomitant injury.

Conclusion

Open repair of an HAGL lesion restored shoulder stability with good results. However, recurrence was significant (21%) with longer follow-up, and return to sports was affected. Associated lesions were prevalent.

[Shoulder-clinical introduction]

BACKGROUND

Radiological imaging plays a significant role in the diagnostics of shoulder pathologies. Based on a patient's medical history, physical examination and radiological imaging, it is possible to plan the further conservative or surgical treatment.

OBJECTIVES

Common pathologies of the shoulder and the correct radiological imaging are presented.

CONCLUSIONS

A rational and targeted use of radiological imaging, together with the medical history and physical examination allows correct diagnosis of pathologies of the shoulder joint.

Factors Associated With Humeral Avulsion of Glenohumeral Ligament Lesions in Patients With Anterior Shoulder Instability: An Analysis of the MOON Shoulder Instability Cohort

Background

Humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesions are an uncommon cause of anterior glenohumeral instability and may occur in isolation or combination with other pathologies. As HAGL lesions are difficult to detect via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and arthroscopy, they can remain unrecognized and result in continued glenohumeral instability.

Purpose

To compare patients with anterior shoulder instability from a large multicenter cohort with and without a diagnosis of a HAGL lesion and identify preoperative physical examination findings, patient-reported outcomes, imaging findings, and surgical management trends associated with HAGL lesions.

Study Design

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Patients with anterior glenohumeral instability who underwent surgical management between 2012 and 2020 at 11 orthopaedic centers were enrolled. Patients with HAGL lesions identified intraoperatively were compared with patients without HAGL lesions. Preoperative characteristics, physical examinations, imaging findings, intraoperative findings, and surgical procedures were collected. The Student t test, Kruskal-Wallis H test, Fisher exact test, and chi-square test were used to compare groups.

Results

A total of 21 HAGL lesions were identified in 915 (2.3%) patients; approximately one-third (28.6%) of all lesions were visualized intraoperatively but not identified on preoperative MRI. Baseline characteristics did not differ between study cohorts. Compared with non-HAGL patients, HAGL patients were less likely to have a Hill-Sachs lesion (54.7% vs 28.6%; P = .03) or an anterior labral tear (87.2% vs 66.7%; P = .01) on preoperative MRI and demonstrated increased external rotation when their affected arm was positioned at 90° of abduction (85° vs 90°; P = .03). Additionally, HAGL lesions were independently associated with an increased risk of undergoing an open stabilization surgery (odds ratio, 74.6 [95% CI, 25.2-221.1]; P < .001).

Conclusion

Approximately one-third of HAGL lesions were missed on preoperative MRI. HAGL patients were less likely to exhibit preoperative imaging findings associated with anterior shoulder instability, such as Hill-Sachs lesions or anterior labral pathology. These patients underwent open procedures more frequently than patients without HAGL lesions.

Outcomes following arthroscopic repair of humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesion: A systematic review

Purpose

The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate patient outcomes following arthroscopic surgical management for a humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesion.

Methods

Based on PRISMA guidelines, two independent reviewers performed a literature search to isolate studies on arthroscopic HAGL repair. The functional outcomes, return to play (RTP), and recurrent instability from each study were extracted and analyzed.

Results

Overall, 7 manuscripts were included with 49 patients. The patient population was 61.4% male with a mean age of 24.8 years (15-42 years), and 41.9 months of follow-up on average (12-104 months). The Rowe score was the most frequently reported outcome measure with a weighted mean of 89. In total, 81.2% of patients reported being able to RTP post-operatively, with 70.5% reported being able to play at an equal or higher level. There was 1 recurrent dislocation (2%).

Conclusion

The current study found successful clinical outcomes following the arthroscopic management of HAGL lesions. Recurrent dislocation requiring revision was rare, with high rates of return to play including those who could return to the same level of play. However, the paucity of evidence does not permit a statement of best-practice to be made.

A Bibliometric Analysis of the Most Cited Research on Humeral Avulsions of the Glenohumeral Ligament: A Paucity of High-Level Evidence

Purpose

To identify the 25 most-cited articles on humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesions and characterize them based on number of citations, citation density, source journal, year of publication, geographic origin, article type, and level of evidence.

Methods

The Science Citation Index Expanded database was queried for all possible publications regarding HAGL lesions. The 25 most-cited articles from 1976 to 2021 relevant to the topic were selected for further analysis. Articles were characterized based on the number of citations, citation density, year of publication, source journal, country of origin, article type, article subtype, and level of evidence.

Results

The number of citations for individual articles ranged from 21 to 182 (mean ± standard deviation: 44.72 ± 36.87). Ten countries contributed to the 25 most cited articles, with 14 of the 25 (56%) articles published in the United States. Furthermore, the top 25 cited articles were published in 9 journals, with the majority in Arthroscopy-The Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery (n = 15, 60%). There were 15 (60%) articles classified as "Clinical," 9 (36%) as "Review/Expert Opinion," and 1 (4%) as "Basic Science." All clinical studies met the standard for level IV evidence.

Conclusions

This bibliometric analysis provides a list of the 25 most cited articles related to HAGL lesions, providing a reference of impactful articles for medical educators. The lack of high level of evidence "Clinical" studies demonstrates that higher-quality research is needed to establish guidelines for the treatment and management of HAGL lesions.

Clinical Relevance

A list of the 25 most-cited articles regarding recurrent glenohumeral instability can serve as a comprehensive reference for practitioners, educators, researchers, and orthopaedic trainees.

[Sports injuries : What type of imaging is required?]

BACKGROUND

Imaging is of great importance in sports injuries, since the indication for conservative and surgical therapy depends on precise knowledge of the extent of the damage.

OBJECTIVES

Typical sports injuries and their imaging requirements are to be presented as examples.

CONCLUSIONS

In order to detect the often subtle pathologies, imaging must be adapted to the clinical diagnosis that is specifically suspected.

First-time traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation: current concepts

The management of first-time traumatic anterior shoulder dislocations has been a topic of extensive study yet remains controversial. Development of a treatment plan requires an understanding of patient-specific considerations, including demographics, functional demands, and extent of pathology. Each of these can influence rates of recurrence and return to activity. The purpose of this review is to provide a framework for decision-making following a first-time anterior shoulder dislocation, with particular focus on the high-risk young and athletic population. A summary of surgical treatment options and their outcomes is outlined, along with future biomechanical and clinical perspectives.

Posterior Shoulder Instability in the Military and Athlete: An Evidence and Experience-Based Treatment Approach

Background

Recognition of posterior glenohumeral instability has increased in young, athletic populations, leading to evolution in operative approaches to management. As with anterior instability surgery, successful treatment for these challenging injuries is dependent on understanding the key principles of pathology and restoration of the functional anatomy.

Indications

Operative management of posterior glenohumeral instability is indicated for recurrent instability events or persistent pain refractory to physical therapy in the setting of posterior labral pathology with or without bone loss.

Technique

In this video article, we present our approach to operative management of posterior glenohumeral instability in a young, athletic population, as developed through extensive experience in military and athlete populations and supported by research. Our approach to posterior glenohumeral instability is to restore the functional anatomy of the bone, labrum, and capsuloligamentous static restraints. We consider concomitant pathology and bone loss as components of these restraints that need to be restored to achieve a stable, painless shoulder. Using standard portals and tools, we prepare the glenoid and mobilize the labrum. When present, large osseous lesions can be restored using allograft distal tibia. We then repair and superiorize the inferior labrum, taking care to create a secure buttress against translation by positioning anchors at the edge of the chondral surface and everting the interior flap of tissue. If capsular pathology is present, this is also addressed. In the setting of significant posterior glenoid bone loss, we reconstruct the osseous support with a distal tibial allograft, which we perform arthroscopically and augment with labral repair. Using these techniques, surgeons can expect a low overall failure rate. In our young, highly active population, we observed 17.2% failure by 5 years, although this is dependent on multiple factors including age and bone loss.

Discussion

Outcomes for posterior glenohumeral instability can be excellent with both nonoperative and operative treatments. When operative intervention is pursued, it is important to critically evaluate the anatomy, place portals considerately, and functionally restore the damaged structures.

Patient Consent Disclosure Statement

The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.

Treatment of the 'The Naked Humeral Head': Repair of Supraspinatus Avulsion, Subscapularis Tear, and Humeral Avulsion of the Glenohumeral Ligament

A humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament, or HAGL, lesion is a rare yet debilitating shoulder injury, which can lead to recurrent instability, pain, and overall shoulder dysfunction. The diagnosis is often difficult, requiring both high clinical suspicion, as well as identification on magnetic resonance imaging. In patients with an anterior HAGL, repair often requires an open approach. In extremely rare circumstances, the initial traumatic event that causes a HAGL can also cause disruption of the supraspinatus and subscapularis insertions on the humeral head. We have termed this the "naked humeral head". The purpose of this technical note is to describe our preferred technique to surgically treat the naked humeral head by repairing a supraspinatus avulsion fracture, HAGL lesion, and complete subscapularis tear.

Indications, management, and outcomes of humeral avulsions of the glenohumeral ligament: a systematic review

Purpose

To provide an updated overview of recent literature regarding the clinical indications, management, and outcomes of humeral avulsions of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesion.

Methods

Medline, Cochrane and Embase were systematically searched using keywords “humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament” and others to identify studies reporting on management of HAGL lesions. Studies were double-screened and reviewed by two blinded authors according to selection criteria. Data was systematically extracted on the following topics: demographics, mechanism of injury, indication for treatment, treatment, post-operative complications, associated injuries, and outcomes including clinical outcome scores, clinical evaluations, and return to activity.

Results

There were 14 studies included that evaluated a total of 119 patients with HAGL lesions. In these studies, 69% of patients were male with a mean age of 24 years. Sports (23.5%) and fitness training (41.2%) were the most common injury mechanisms. Instability was the most common indication for treatment, followed by pain and recurrent dislocations. 85 associated lesions were reported, with non-descript labral tears (34.5%) and Bankart lesions (22.4%) being the most common. Out of patients treated, 117 of 119 patients were treated operatively, with 60 open and 57 arthroscopic procedures. A variety of clinical outcome scores showed postoperative functional shoulder improvement and 97% of patients were able to return to some level of activity.

Conclusions

HAGL lesions commonly present with associated injuries, necessitating a high clinical awareness of their presentation and management options to prevent undiagnosed lesions that can lead to persistent instability and pain. Surgical management yields good clinical outcomes.

Long-term Outcomes After the Open Latarjet Procedure for the Surgical Management of Humeral Avulsion of the Glenohumeral Ligament Lesions

BACKGROUND

Recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability caused by a humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesion has been studied, but very limited long-term evidence is available.

PURPOSE

To retrospectively review patients with a HAGL lesion who underwent an open Latarjet procedure for recurrent anterior shoulder instability.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A total of 16 patients with complete clinical and radiological data were available for a review. Clinical outcomes were assessed by range of motion, apprehension testing, the visual analog scale for pain, the Walch-Duplay score, the Rowe score, the Constant-Murley score, the Subjective Shoulder Value, and return to sports. Radiographs were reviewed for osteoarthritis and complications.

RESULTS

The median age of patients at the time of surgery was 28 years (range, 18-42 years). All patients were male with no hyperlaxity. The median follow-up time was 10 years (range, 2.8-15 years). Postoperative range of motion showed recovered forward elevation (median, 175°), external rotation (median, 62°), and internal rotation (median, 9 points). Overall, 87% returned to sports, with 68% to the same level and 93% satisfied or very satisfied. Median clinical outcomes were the following: visual analog scale score, 1 (range, 0-2); Walch-Duplay score, 86 (range, 75-100); Rowe score, 95 (range, 90-100); Constant-Murley score, 77 (range, 74-79); and Subjective Shoulder Value, 88% (range, 80%-95%). There were no recurrent dislocations or subluxations. One patient described mild long-term pain, and 1 patient had persistent stiffness. Other complications included 12% with subjective apprehension, 1 patient with a wound infection, and another patient with delayed bone graft union. Additionally, 56% of cases had mild postoperative arthritis at the final follow-up. There were no reoperations.

CONCLUSION

The open Latarjet procedure provided good outcomes with acceptable complication rates in the long term for patients with HAGL lesions. It is an effective treatment option and a safe alternative to arthroscopic or open HAGL repair.

A Comparative Study on the Diagnostic Value of CTA and MRA in Anterior Dislocation of Shoulder

Objective

To investigate the diagnostic value of CTA and MRA in anterior dislocation of shoulder.

Methods

The detection of inferior glenohumeral ligament injuries, anterior inferior labrum injuries, and bone and cartilage injuries by the two examination procedures was observed and compared with the results of arthroscopy or surgery on patients referred to our hospital owing to anterior dislocation of shoulder. Results. A total of 36 patients with shoulder injuries were gathered for this study. 32 cases with anterior inferior labrum tearings (27 cases detected by CTA and 30 cases by MRA), 24 cases with inferior glenohumeral ligament tearings (14 cases detected by CTA and 22 cases by MRA), 24 cases with inferior glenohumeral ligament tearings (14 cases detected by CTA and 22 cases by MRA), and 24 cases with inferior glenohumeral ligament tearings (14 cases detected by CTA and 22 cases by MRA) were detected. There were 30 bone and cartilage injuries, including 18 fractures (CTA identified 18), 10 bone contusions (CTA detected 0), and 5 cartilage damage (CTA detected 0) (CTA detected 0, MRA detected 5).

Conclusion

The detection rate of MRA is better than that of CTA for inferior glenohumeral ligament injuries. For anterior inferior labrum injury, the detection rate of CTA and MRA was similar. CTA is more conducive to the detection of fracture blocks, while MRA is more advantageous for the observation of bone contusion and cartilage damage.

Humeral Avulsion of the Glenohumeral Ligament: Diagnosis and Management

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The most common type of humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) is a purely ligamentous avulsion involving the anterior inferior glenohumeral ligament (IGHL), but other variants are seen, including posterior lesions and those with an osseous avulsion.

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A central lesion between the intact anterior and posterior bands of the IGHL is gaining recognition as a distinct clinical entity.

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HAGL lesions are most commonly seen in patients with anterior instability without a Bankart tear or in those with persistent symptoms despite having undergone a Bankart repair.

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Magnetic resonance imaging is the most sensitive imaging modality. An arthrogram is helpful with subacute and chronic lesions when the joint is not distended. Arthroscopy is the gold standard for diagnosis.

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While some have reported success with nonoperative management, surgical repair with either arthroscopic or open techniques has provided a high rate of successful outcomes; however, the literature is limited to mostly Level-IV and V evidence.

Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Humeral Avulsion Glenohumeral Ligament Lesions in the Setting of Anterior Shoulder Instability: A Retrospective Comparative Study

BACKGROUND

Humeral avulsion glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesions are often underreported but have been shown to occur in up to 10% of cases of anterior shoulder instability.

PURPOSE

To compare clinical outcomes and recurrence rates of patients with HAGL lesions undergoing open stabilization for anterior shoulder instability versus a pair-matched control.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all patients who underwent both arthroscopic and open stabilization procedures with a minimum 24-month follow-up was performed. Patients with HAGL lesions were pair-matched in a 1:6 ratio for age, sex, sport, level of preoperative play, and follow-up length with those without HAGL lesions who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair alone. Return to play (RTP), the level of return, and the timing of return were assessed. In addition, recurrence, visual analog scale for pain (VAS), Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), Rowe score, satisfaction, and whether they would undergo the same surgery again were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 15 patients with HAGL lesions who underwent shoulder stabilization procedures were included, with a mean age of 21.5 ± 4.1 years and mean follow-up of 53.5 ± 17.4 months, and were pair-matched to 90 patients without HAGL lesions. Overall, there was no significant difference in any of the clinical outcome scores (VAS, Rowe, SSV, satisfaction) used between the 2 groups (1.6 vs 1.7, P = .86; 83.4 vs 88.0, P = .06; 85.7 vs 87.2, P = .76; and 86.7% vs 94.5%, P = .26, respectively). In addition, there were no significant differences in terms of overall rates, levels, and timing of RTP between the 2 groups (93.3% vs 90.0%, P > .99; 80.0% vs 78.9%, P > .99; and 5.3 ± 2.2 vs 5.9 ± 2.9 months, P = .45, respectively). There was no significant difference in the rates of apprehension, subluxation, and recurrent instability between the HAGL and pair-matched control groups (26.7% vs 26.7%, P > .99; 6.7% vs 3.3%, P = .47; and 13.3% vs 6.7% months, P = .32, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Patients with anterior shoulder instability undergoing surgical stabilization with open HAGL repair demonstrate excellent functional outcomes and high rates of RTP, with low rates of recurrence in the medium term compared with a control group without HAGL lesions who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair alone.

Surgical Treatment of Iatrogenic Nerve Injury Following Arthroscopic Capsulolabral Repair

PURPOSE

Case reports of nerve injuries following arthroscopic capsulolabral repair emphasize the proximity of major nerves to the glenoid. This study describes preoperative localization using nerve-sensitive magnetic resonance imaging in a small cohort of patients with iatrogenic nerve injuries following arthroscopic capsulolabral repair and the outcomes of nerve repair in these patients.

METHODS

Cases of iatrogenic nerve injury following arthroscopic capsulolabral repair referred to 2 surgeons from January 2017 to December 2019 were identified. Clinical charts, electrodiagnostic testing, magnetic resonance imaging studies, and operative reports were reviewed.

RESULTS

Four cases of iatrogenic nerve injury were identified. The time to presentation to our institution ranged from 2 weeks to 8 years. The axillary nerves in 3 cases were tethered by a suture at the inferior glenoid, whereas 1 case had a suture tied around the radial and median nerves inferior to the glenohumeral joint capsule. One case underwent excision and nerve transfer, 1 underwent excision and nerve repair, and 2 underwent suture removal and neurolysis. Open and arthroscopic approaches, including a recently described approach to the axillary nerve in the "blind zone," were used. Three cases demonstrated good recovery of all affected motor and sensory functions after surgery. At the 10-month follow-up, 1 case had persistent weakness, but there was evidence of axonal regeneration on electrodiagnostic testing.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic capsulolabral repair places regional nerves, particularly the axillary nerve, at risk owing to their proximity to the joint capsule and inferior glenoid. Patients with neuropathic pain in the distribution of affected nerves with corresponding sensorimotor loss following arthroscopic capsulolabral surgery should undergo focused magnetic resonance imaging with nerve-sensitive sequences and electrodiagnostic testing to localize the injury. The use of multiple surgical windows to the axillary nerve in the "blind zone" enables full visualization for neurolysis, suture removal, and nerve repair or transfer.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic V.

Arthroscopic Repair of Humeral Avulsion of Glenohumeral Ligament Lesions: Outcomes at 2-Year Follow-up

Background:

Humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) is an uncommon condition but a major contributor to shoulder instability and functional decline.

Purpose:

To describe the pre- and postoperative HAGL lesion presentations of instability, pain, and functionality and the return-to-sports activities in patients managed arthroscopically for anterior and posterior HAGL lesions.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Data on patients with HAGL lesions treated with arthroscopic repair between 2009 and 2018 were retrospectively retrieved from medical charts, and the patients were interviewed to assess their level of postoperative functionality. The Rowe; Constant; University of California, Los Angeles; Oxford; and pain visual analog scale (VAS) scores were obtained for both pre- and postoperative status. Return-to-sports activities and level of activities after surgery were compared with the preinjury state, and complications, reoperations, and recurrent instability were recorded and evaluated.

Results:

There were 23 study patients (12 females and 11 males; mean age, 24 years). The mean follow-up duration was 24.4 months (range, 7-99 months; median, 17 months). In 7 (30.4%) of the patients, HAGL lesions were diagnosed only intraoperatively. A significant improvement was seen in all examined postoperative functional scores and VAS. At the last follow-up visit, 2 patients (8.7%) reported residual instability with no improvement in pain levels and declined any further treatment, and 3 others (13.0%) required revision surgeries for additional shoulder pathologies (reoperations were performed 18-36 months after the index procedure). The remaining 18 patients (78.3%) were free of pain and symptoms. There was a mean of 0.65 coexisting pathologies per patient, mostly superior labral anterior-posterior, Bankart, and rotator cuff lesions.

Conclusion:

HAGL lesions are often missed during routine workup in patients with symptoms of instability, and a high level of suspicion is essential during history acquisition, clinical examination, magnetic resonance imaging arthrogram interpretation, and arthroscopic evaluation. Arthroscopic repair yields good pain and stability results; however, some high-level athletes may not return to their preinjury level of activity.

Arthroscopic Repair of Humeral Avulsion of the Glenohumeral Ligament Lesion With Capsular Plication in the Lateral Decubitus Position

Humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesions can lead to persistent shoulder instability. While rare, HAGL lesions may present as a concomitant injury following shoulder dislocation events. Traditionally, an open approach has been used to repair the inferior glenohumeral ligament and restore shoulder stability. Modern arthroscopic techniques and instrumentation have permitted a minimally invasive approach for treating HAGL lesions. While technically demanding, arthroscopic repair of HAGL lesions has demonstrated favorable outcomes with less soft-tissue disruption. The following Technical Note describes a safe and effective method for the arthroscopic repair of HAGL lesions. Our technique highlights the use of the lateral decubitus position, a 70° arthroscope, a curved anchor device, and a 90° SutureLasso device.

A Novel Technique for Labral Reconstruction Using Long Head of Biceps Tendon: Duru Technique

Arthroscopic capsulolabral repair is a well-established surgical treatment for traumatic anterior shoulder instability. When there is insufficient labral tissue during arthroscopic primary or revision Bankart repairs, various soft tissue procedures have been recommended. All these procedures aim to reattach glenohumeral ligaments to the glenoid rim and regain the tight anterior structures to prevent re-dislocation or subluxation. Some authors recommend the Latarjet procedure, even in the absence of critical bone loss in this patient group. The labrum increases the depth of the glenoid cavity, thereby, increasing the glenoid track. It behaves like a block for the humeral head. Reconstruction of the labral tissue may strongly contribute to shoulder joint stability when it is totally absent. In this article, we describe a novel labral reconstruction technique (Duru technique) using the long head of the biceps tendon in two patients without an existing labral tissue.

Arthroscopic Repair of Humeral Avulsion of the Glenohumeral Ligament for Anterior Shoulder Instability

Humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) is a rare cause of anterior shoulder instability. Recurrent instability and anterior shoulder pain could be caused by an unrepaired HAGL; therefore, making the diagnosis is crucial. Only a few articles describe arthroscopic HAGL repair. This uncommon technique uses lateral decubitus arthroscopy and standard Bankart instrumentation. Different methods used to facilitate visualization of the working space as well as anchor placements are described.

Treatment of a Combined Pectoralis Major Tear, Anterior Labral Tear, and Humeral Avulsion of the Glenohumeral Ligament (HAGL) in an Active Duty Soldier

Anterior glenohumeral instability is an increasingly common injury among young military servicemen. First-time dislocations occurring in combination with anterior labral tears and humeral avulsion of glenohumeral ligament lesions, although rare, significantly contribute to further shoulder dysfunction with recurrent instability and pain. Tears of the pectoralis major are also a type of injury more common in the military population, with operative management resulting in decreased strength. We present a unique case of a young, active duty male that sustains an anterior shoulder dislocation with a concomitant pectoralis major tendon rupture while bench press weight lifting in preparation for the Army Special Forces selection. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case presented in the literature describing management of a simultaneous anterior shoulder dislocation, humeral avulsion of glenohumeral ligament lesion, and pectoralis major tendon rupture treated with a single operation. After aggressive rehabilitation, the patient was able to successfully pass Special Forces selection and has near full function of the operative shoulder with remarkable satisfaction scores.

The Original Mini-Open Technique for Repair of Humeral Avulsion of the Glenohumeral Ligament

Anterior shoulder dislocations commonly occur in the young, athletic population. The mechanism of dislocation occurs when the shoulder is placed in an abducted, externally rotated position while a forceful anterior moment is applied to the humerus. This position, combined with the force applied, results in an anterior and inferiorly directed dislocation of the humeral head away from the glenoid. Due to the limited stretching capacity of the glenohumeral capsule and associated glenohumeral ligaments, the force of the traumatic dislocation overcomes the tensile strength of these ligaments, resulting in a tear. Although the injury more commonly results in an avulsion of the anteroinferior capsulolabral complex from the glenoid, called a Bankart lesion, other injuries have been described. The anterior inferior glenohumeral ligaments (aIGHLs), may be torn from their humeral attachment, which is referred to as a humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL). Although other structures may be injured, the topic of this surgical technique focuses on a mini-open approach for repair of the HAGL lesion.

Imaging of shoulder instability

The shoulder enjoys the widest range of motion of all the joints in the human body, therefore requires a delicate balance between stability and motility. The glenohumeral joint is inclined to fall into two main instability categories: macro and micro. Macroinstability can be traumatic or atraumatic, with anterior or posterior dislocation of the humeral head. Microinstability falls within the broader section of acquired instability in overstressed shoulder caused by repeated joint stress. Anterior traumatic instability is the most frequent entity and a relatively common injury in young and athletic population. While shoulder instability is a clinical diagnosis, imaging impacts the patient management by detailing the extent of injury, such as capsulo-labral-ligamentous tears, fracture, and/or dislocation, describing the predisposing anatomic conditions and guide the therapetic choice. The aim of this comprehensive review is to cover the imaging findings of shoulder instability by different imaging techniques.

Arthroscopic repair of HAGL lesions yields good clinical results, but may not allow return to former level of sport

PURPOSE

There is a paucity of evidence regarding mid- to long-term clinical outcomes of arthroscopic repair of humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL). This study investigated clinical outcomes, return to sport and the frequency of associated shoulder lesions.

METHODS

Eighteen patients underwent arthroscopic repair of a HAGL lesion between 2008 and 2015. Clinical outcome was evaluated using the Rowe Score, the Quick DASH Score (Q-DASH), the Oxford Shoulder Instability Score (OSIS), the ASES Score and Range of Motion (ROM). Return to sports and associated shoulder lesions were documented.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients agreed to complete the shoulder scores and nine patients were available for clinical examination. Median time to follow-up was 59 months (range 16-104). The median Rowe Score and Q-DASH Score improved significantly from 33 to 85 points and 61 to 7 points, respectively (p = 0.001, p = 0.001). The median OSIS and ASES Score were 20 and 91 points. External rotation was significantly reduced compared to the contralateral side (p = 0.011). One recurrent dislocation was reported. No neurologic or vascular complications after surgery were reported. Five out of the nine patients did not return to sports at the same level. Associated shoulder lesions were found in 89% of the cases.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic repair of a HAGL lesion is a reliable method to restore shoulder stability with good clinical results. However, limitations in external rotation and a reduction in sporting ability may persist at 59 months follow-up. Concomitant lesions are common.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Case series, level IV.

Evaluation of an Incorporated Superior Capsular Reconstruction Graft: A Case Report

CASE

A 66-year-old man presented with 2 years of atraumatic right shoulder pain and difficulty with overhead activities. Radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated Hamada stage I changes and a massive irreparable rotator cuff tear involving the supraspinatus and infraspinatus. He underwent superior capsular reconstruction with acellular human dermal matrix (SCR with ADM) allograft. Diagnostic arthroscopy and humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament repair 1 year postoperatively showed that the SCR appeared intact and vascularized.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to confirm visually that SCR with ADM allograft is well-vascularized and intact 1 year post-operatively.

Mini-open Repair of the Floating Anterior Inferior Glenohumeral Ligament: Combined Treatment of Bankart and Humeral Avulsion of the Glenohumeral Ligament Lesions

Anterior shoulder instability often results from avulsion of the anterior inferior glenohumeral ligament (aIGHL) off its insertion on the glenoid, yielding a Bankart lesion. Although less common, avulsion of the ligament attachment to the humerus results in a humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesion. Combined Bankart and HAGL lesions, also termed the "floating aIGHL," create a complex pathology that is not detailed significantly in the literature. We believe a mini-open approach is a viable and reproducible procedure for treatment because it allows for protection of the axillary nerve and other neurovascular structures while providing optimal exposure to both the humeral insertion site of the distal aIGHL and the Bankart lesion, ensuring anatomic restoration. The purpose of this Technical Note is to describe our preferred technique to surgically treat the floating aIGHL, consisting of an anterior HAGL and concomitant Bankart lesion repair through a mini-open approach.