[Treatment strategy in first traumatic anterior dislocation of the shoulder. Plea for a multi-stage concept of preventive initial management]

Patient-Preference Diagnostics: Adapting Stated-Preference Methods to Inform Effective Shared Decision Making

BACKGROUND

While clinical practice guidelines underscore the need to incorporate patient preferences in clinical decision making, incorporating meaningful assessment of patient preferences in clinical encounters is challenging. Structured approaches that combine quantitative patient preferences and clinical evidence could facilitate effective patient-provider communication and more patient-centric health care decisions. Adaptive conjoint or stated-preference approaches can identify individual preference parameters, but they can require a relatively large number of choice questions or simplifying assumptions about the error with which preferences are elicited.

METHOD

We propose an approach to efficiently diagnose preferences of patients for outcomes of treatment alternatives by leveraging prior information on patient preferences to generate adaptive choice questions to identify a patient's proximity to known preference phenotypes. This information can be used for measuring sensitivity and specificity, much like any other diagnostic procedure. We simulated responses with varying levels of choice errors for hypothetical patients with specific preference profiles to measure sensitivity and specificity of a 2-question preference diagnostic.

RESULTS

We identified 4 classes representing distinct preference profiles for patients who participated in a previous first-time anterior shoulder dislocation (FTASD) survey. Posterior probabilities of class membership at the end of a 2-question sequence ranged from 87% to 89%. We found that specificity and sensitivity of the 2-question sequences were robust to respondent errors. The questions appeared to have better specificity than sensitivity.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that this approach could help diagnose patient preferences for treatments for a condition such as FTASD with acceptable precision using as few as 2 choice questions. Such preference-diagnostic tools could be used to improve and document alignment of treatment choices and patient preferences.

HIGHLIGHTS

Approaches that combine patient preferences and clinical evidence can facilitate effective patient-provider communication and more patient-centric healthcare decisions. However, diagnosing individual-level preferences is challenging, and no formal diagnostic tools exist.We propose a structured approach to efficiently diagnose patient preferences based on prior information on the distribution of patient preferences in a population.We generated a 2-question test of preferences for the outcomes associated with the treatment of first-time anterior shoulder dislocation.The diagnosis of preferences can help physicians discuss relevant aspects of the treatment options and proactively address patient concerns during the clinical encounter.

Biceps Brachii Alterations Following the Latarjet Procedure: A Prospective Multicenter Study

Purpose: To prospectively investigate the postoperative forearm supination and elbow flexion strength of both upper extremities and popeye deformity in patients who underwent a mini-open Latarjet procedure for anterior shoulder instability. Methods: Patients who underwent a mini-open Latarjet procedure at two specialized shoulder centers were prospectively evaluated preoperatively (T0) and at least 6 months (T1) after surgery. Subjects were tested for elbow flexion and forearm supination strength of both upper extremities using an isometric dynamometer and customized torque dynamometer. Clinical outcome was assessed by the Constant Score (CS), American Shoulder and Elbow Score (ASES) and Simple Shoulder test (SST). Popeye deformity was defined as a distalization of the greatest circumference of the biceps muscle belly towards the lateral epicondyle of the elbow. Results: A total of 20 patients with a mean age of 27 ± 6 years were included in the study. At a mean follow-up of 10 ± 3 months, the elbow flexion strength was restored to the preoperative state (p = 0.240). Forearm supination strength significantly decreased at final follow-up, to 88 % in the surgical arm (p = 0.015) vs. 90 % in the non-surgical arm (p = 0.023). There was no statistical difference when comparing both arms concerning elbow flexion strength (p = 0.510) and forearm supination strength (p = 0.495). No significant popeye deformity was observed in both arms (p = 0.111 vs. p = 0.508). Clinical outcome scores improved significantly from 73 ± 18 to 82 ± 13 (p = 0.014) for CS and 76 ± 22 to 89 ± 12 (p = 0.008) for ASES score preoperatively to final follow-up. No difference in the SST was documented (p = 0.10). Conclusion: The Latarjet procedure showed to preserve elbow flexion strength and provided comparable forearm supination strength compared to the uninjured arm with reliable clinical outcome in this study population. However, a decrease of forearm supination strength in both arms was persistent at a mean of 10 months postoperatively. No popeye deformity was noted in the postoperative examinations. Level of evidence: Case series, Level III.

Arthroscopic Latarjet Procedure: Indications, Techniques, and Outcomes

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The proposed advantages of the arthroscopic approach in the Latarjet procedure for shoulder dislocation include improved visualization for accurate positioning of the coracoid graft, the ability to address any associated intra-articular pathologies, and the diminished potential for the formation of postoperative scar tissue and stiffness associated with an open procedure.

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Young age, the presence of glenoid and/or humeral bone loss, a history of dislocation, a history of failed arthroscopic stabilization surgery, and an active lifestyle are all associated with recurrent dislocation and are relative indications for an osseous augmentation procedure.

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Both the open and arthroscopic Latarjet procedures result in substantial improvements in patient function, with comparable rates of recurrent instability and complication profiles.

Efficacy of a Preference-Based Decision Tool on Treatment Decisions for a First-Time Anterior Shoulder Dislocation: A Randomized Controlled Trial of At-Risk Patients

BACKGROUND

First-time anterior shoulder dislocations (FTASD) provide an opportunity to examine the value of integrating stated-preference data with decision modeling to differentiate between patients whose preferred management strategy involves operative or nonoperative treatment. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a FTASD decision tool intervention with individual preference measurement compared with a text-based control in a randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

Two hundred respondents between 18 and 35 years of age at risk for experiencing an FTASD were enrolled from the orthopedic clinics and randomized to receive either an interactive decision tool intervention capable of eliciting patient preferences for treatment of an FTASD or a text-based control on shoulder dislocations and treatments. The primary outcome was preference for operative or nonoperative treatment choice. Secondary outcomes included the decisional conflict scale (DCS), stage of decision making, patient activation and engagement, awareness of preference sensitive decisions, knowledge retention, and instrument acceptability.

RESULTS

One hundred respondents were randomized to the intervention and 100 to the control. A total of 154 men and 46 women with an average age of 23.6 years completed the survey. Participants in the intervention group made treatment decisions that aligned more closely with evidence-based recommendations than those in the control group ( P = 0.016). Secondary outcomes showed no difference between intervention and control, excluding several DCS subscales.

DISCUSSION

An interactive, preference-based decision tool for treatment of FTASD affects patient decision making by guiding respondents toward treatment decisions that align more closely with evidence-based recommendations in the absence of a consultation with an orthopedic provider compared with a standard-of-care control tool. Additional study is needed to evaluate the long-term effects of this tool on treatment outcomes, patient adherence, and satisfaction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2.

Do Articular-Sided Partial-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears After a First-Time Traumatic Anterior Shoulder Dislocation in Young Athletes Influence the Outcome of Surgical Stabilization?

Background:

Because of the high risk for redislocations after a first-time traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation with conservative treatment, recent publications have recommended early arthroscopic intervention, especially for young athletes. Concomitant rotator cuff tendon damage may occur when the shoulder dislocates; however, its presence and influence on clinical results have not been well described in this patient category.

Hypothesis:

In opposition to current opinion, a substantial number of articular-sided partial-thickness rotator cuff tears (APTRCTs) would be found at surgery after a first-time traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation in young athletes. However, the impact of these injuries on 2-year postoperative results would be negligible.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Sixteen male patients (mean age, 21 years [range, 16-25 years]) with a first-time traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation without bony Bankart lesions were included in this study. The indications for surgical treatment were age less than 25 years and being active in collision or contact sports at a competitive level. Arthroscopic surgery was performed at a mean 7.8 days (range, 2-14 days) after injury. Rowe and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores as well as range of motion were evaluated at a minimum 2 years after an arthroscopic Bankart procedure, and a comparison of the clinical results between patients with and without APTRCTs was conducted.

Results:

An anterior-inferior capsulolabral injury was found in all patients. There were no bony Bankart lesions. An APTRCT was found in 9 of the 16 patients. At 2 years after surgical treatment, there were no significant differences between the patients with and without APTRCTs in terms of the Rowe score (90.0 and 87.1, respectively; P = .69) and ASES score (94.6 and 90.4, respectively; P = .67).

Conclusion:

APTRCTs were found in the superior part of the shoulder joint after a first-time traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation in a majority of young male athletes treated with surgical stabilization. There were no significant differences found between patients with and without APTRCTs in terms of the Rowe and ASES scores at 2 years after surgical treatment.

Natural History of Anterior Shoulder Instability

BACKGROUND

The shoulder is the most complex joint in the body. The large freedom of motion in this joint is the main cause of instability. Instability varies in its degree, direction, etiology and volition and there is a large spectrum of conditions.

METHODS

Based on literature research and also in our own experience, we propose to elucidate the reader about the natural history of instability and its importance for the appropriate management of this pathology, by answering the following questions: What happens in the shoulder after the first dislocation? Which structures suffer damage? Who are the patients at higher risk of recurrence? How does the disease evolve without treatment? Will surgical treatment avoid future negative outcomes and prevent degenerative joint disease? Who should we treat and when?

RESULTS

80% of anterior-inferior dislocations occur in young patients. Recurrent instability is common and multiple dislocations are the rule. Instability is influenced by a large number of variables, including age of onset, activity profile, number of episodes,delay between first episode and surgical treatment.

CONCLUSION

Understanding the disease and its natural evolution is determinant to decide the treatment in order to obtain the best outcome. It is crucial to identify the risk factors for recurrence. Delay in surgical treatment, when indicated, leads to worse results. Surgical technique should address the type and severity of both soft tissue and bone lesions, when present.

Pitch-side management of acute shoulder dislocations: a conceptual review

The shoulder, specifically the glenohumeral joint, by virtue of its anatomical characteristics and biomechanics confers a large range of movement, which ultimately results in a joint that is inherently prone to becoming unstable. The incidence of acute traumatic shoulder dislocation varies within the sporting environment, commonly occurring following direct trauma. Anterior dislocations account for nearly 90% of all dislocations. While most are referred and managed in the emergency department, pitch-side relocation by experienced clinicians does occur prior to referral. The aim of this study was to delineate a guideline specifically for the pitch-side management of this common injury. A literature search of PubMed and Medline using the keywords ‘prehospital’, ‘pitch-side’, ‘shoulder dislocation’ and ‘reduction’ or ‘relocation technique’ was performed, and the available literature was reviewed and collated. Articles focusing on reduction techniques were then reviewed, with particular consideration on their applicability to a pitch-side setting. While studies exist that compare and contrast examination and reduction techniques, most are based in a hospital setting. To date, there is no standardised management protocol published for the initial management of an anterior dislocated shoulder in a pitch-side setting. This article addresses this discrepancy and proposes a structured, algorithmic approach to the pitch-side management of a shoulder dislocation. The article addresses factors to consider in a pitch-side setting, suitable techniques and postreduction care. While a systematic approach has been delineated in this article, we recommend those pitch-side medical practitioners who provide this form of support should have attended appropriate training and ensure adequate malpractice cover.

Traditional Versus Congruent Arc Latarjet Technique: Effect on Surface Area for Union and Bone Width Surrounding Screws

PURPOSE

To compare the surface area available for bony contact and the width of bone on each side of the Latarjet fixation screws in the traditional Latarjet technique versus the congruent arc modification of the Latarjet technique.

METHODS

Computed tomographic scans of 24 shoulders in patients with glenohumeral instability who underwent multiplanar reconstruction measurements with multiple dimensions of the coracoid. The surface area of the coracoid available for bony contact with the anterior glenoid and width of bone on each side of a 3.5-mm screw was compared for the traditional Latarjet technique versus the congruent arc modification.

RESULTS

The surface area available for bony contact to the anterior glenoid was 5.65 ± 1.08 cm² using the traditional Latarjet technique compared with 3.64 ± 0.93 cm² using the congruent arc modification of the Latarjet technique (P < .001). The mean width of bone on each side of a 3.5-mm screw was 7.1 ± 1.0 mm using the traditional Latarjet technique compared with 4.1 ± 1.0 mm using the congruent arc modification (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The traditional Latarjet technique has greater bony contact with the glenoid and greater bone width on each side of the screws compared with the congruent arc modification of the Latarjet technique. This potentially allows for a larger surface for healing in the traditional Latarjet technique. Moreover, because of smaller width of the bone around the screw, the congruent arc modification is potentially less tolerant of screw-positioning error compared with the traditional Latarjet technique.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective comparative study.

[Associated injuries with greater tuberosity fractures : Mechanism of injury, diagnostics, treatment]

BACKGROUND

To date, little attention has been given to greater tuberosity fractures (GTFs) in the literature. Several mechanisms of injury are described, but few authors report that a GTF is accompanied by a high rate of often unrecognized associated injuries.

OBJECTIVES

The aim was to document the incidence of dislocation, to diagnose associated injuries and, based on these, these draw conclusions about the mechanism of injury concerning GTF.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From 2007-2015 the detection of a shoulder dislocation, the fracture extent (displacement, fragments, size), associated injuries, and the surgical treatment of GTF and associated injuries were documented in 46 patients with GTF who were less than 65 years of age. After detection of associated injuries by computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or arthroscopy it was decided if surgery was necessary or not.

RESULTS

Shoulder dislocation was found in 46.2 % of patients with a 1-fragmentary GTF. Shoulder dislocation was found in 66.7 % of patients with a 2-fragmentary GTF and 100 % of patients with ≥3 fragments.. Typical injuries associated with dislocation were found in 90.7 %. In 52.6 % of these surgery was necessary. With or without dislocation, approximately the same prevalence of associated injuries was present (92.6 %; 87.5 %). With dislocation surgery for the associated injuries was necessary in 70.8 %; without dislocation surgery was necessary in 35.7 %.

DISCUSSION

The reason for a GTF seems to be an anterior shoulder dislocation or partial dislocation. In multifragmentary GTF or GTF with dislocation surgery is necessary frequently; without dislocation surgery is necessary less frequently. Associated injuries should be searched for selectively. An arthroscopy could be performed for diagnosis and therapy. In a GTF that can be treated conservatively, an MRI should be performed.

[Abduction/external rotation immobilization after primary traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation: which ortheses are suitable?]

BACKGROUND

Immobilization of the shoulder in 60 ° external rotation and 30 ° abduction after primary anterior shoulder dislocation has been shown to allow anatomical reduction and potential healing of the capsule-labrum complex. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate commercially available shoulder braces concerning functionality and comfort as well as for potential problems.

METHODS

In this study ten healthy subjects (6 female, 4 male and average age 23 years) tested four braces: 1. Omo Immobil (Ottobock), 2. Quadrat (DJO Global), 3. MP Airplane Axilla (Horst Rattenhuber GmbH) and 4. ARC XR (Bledsoe Brace Systems) with respect to functionality and comfort. Each subject completed simulated activities of daily living (ADLs) and a the end of each ADL the subject evaluated comfort, difficulty of the activities and potential pain on a points scale. The position or the change of the position were controlled by digital photographs. Additionally it was checked whether the subjects could actively change the position of the brace contrary to the desired position.

RESULTS

Braces 3 and 4 were rated significantly more comfortable (p < 0.05). Even the difficulty of the activities was rated lower and in particular putting on and taking off the braces was assessed to be significantly easier in comparison to braces 1 and 2. In addition, differences of potential pain were statistically significant and pain was experienced only with braces 1 and 2. The measuring of the position showed no significant differences (p > 0.05). For braces 1 and 2 the active change of the position by subjects was significantly higher and the arm could be rotated more against the favored position (p < 0.05). Between braces 3 and 4, there were no statistical differences during the whole evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS

Ortheses where the main joint is positioned in and not in front of the axilla or which can ensure a jointless stabilization of the shoulder or which allow an improved position by an additional sling on the opposite shoulder, are most qualified for immobilization of the shoulder in an external rotation/abduction position with respect to functionality and comfort.

Interest of emergency arthroscopic stabilization in primary shoulder dislocation in young athletes

INTRODUCTION

The recurrence rate after primary shoulder dislocation in young subjects with high functional demand is close to 75%. The present study assessed the interest of emergency arthroscopic stabilization in this specific population.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A non-randomized prospective study included 31 athletes under 30 years of age with primary anterior shoulder dislocation. Fifteen were offered emergency stabilization; after informed consent, 14 were enrolled in the "emergency stabilization" group. This was compared to a group matched for age, sport and lesion, managed 1 year previously by "non-operative" treatment (n=17), divided into 2 subgroups: "immobilization" and "secondary stabilization". Continuous prospective assessment of recurrence, return to sport and function (QuickDASH, QDsport, Duplay and Rowe scores) enabled comparison between the 3 groups.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was 19 months for the "emergency stabilization" group and 25 months for the "non-operative" group. There were no failures in the "emergency stabilization" group, compared to a 77% rate in the "non-operative" group with onset at a mean 7.5 months and a mean 2.6 episodes of recurrence. Seven (54%) of the failures of non-operative treatment required secondary stabilization. Ninety-three percent of the "emergency stabilization" group, 44% of the "immobilization" group and 71% of the "secondary stabilization" group resumed sport at least at their pre-dislocation level. Mean Quick DASH was 1.46 in the "emergency stabilization" group, versus 15.28 the "immobilization" group (P<0.05) and 16.96 in the "secondary stabilization" group. Mean Duplay and Rowe scores were respectively 92.9 and 95 in the "emergency stabilization" group, versus 59.44 and 61.1 in the "immobilization" group (P<0.05) and 85 and 93.57 in the "secondary stabilization" group.

DISCUSSION

Emergency arthroscopic stabilization limits recurrence (Kirkley et al.), with better functional results than for secondary stabilization, lesion "freshness" providing a more favorable environment for labral and ligamentary healing. These encouraging results need confirmation over longer follow-up.

The arthroscopic latarjet procedure for anterior shoulder instability: 5-year minimum follow-up

BACKGROUND

The arthroscopic Latarjet procedure combines the benefits of arthroscopic surgery with the low rate of recurrent instability associated with the Latarjet procedure. Only short-term outcomes after arthroscopic Latarjet procedure have been reported.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the rate of recurrent instability and patient outcomes a minimum of 5 years after stabilization performed with the arthroscopic Latarjet procedure.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Patients who underwent the arthroscopic Latarjet procedure before June 2008 completed a questionnaire to determine whether they had experienced a dislocation, subluxation, or further surgery. The patients also completed the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI).

RESULTS

A total of 62 of 87 patients (64/89 shoulders) were contacted for follow-up. Mean follow-up time was 76.4 months (range, 61.2-100.7 months). No patients had reported a dislocation since their surgery. One patient reported having subluxations since the surgery. Thus, 1 patient (1.59%) had recurrent instability after the procedure. The mean ± standard deviation aggregate WOSI score was 90.6% ± 9.4%. Mean WOSI domain scores were as follows: Physical Symptoms, 90.1% ± 8.7%; Sports/Recreation/Work, 90.3% ± 12.9%; Lifestyle, 93.7% ± 9.8%; and Emotions, 88.7% ± 17.3%.

CONCLUSION

The rate of recurrent instability after arthroscopic Latarjet procedure is low in this series of patients with a minimum 5-year follow-up. Patient outcomes as measured by the WOSI are good.

Anterior dislocation of the shoulder in skeletally immature patients

The ideal treatment for traumatic anterior dislocation of the shoulder in the skeletally immature patient is controversial. The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcomes after either conservative and/or surgical treatment using the Latarjet technique. A retrospective series of 49 out of 80 patients were reviewed. We found no significant differences between either treatment method regarding functional scores and pain levels. Although not statistically significant, post-surgical patients showed better signs of shoulder stability than others who have a higher rate of recurrence. Further, 92% of the post-surgical group had returned to the same level of activity versus 52% in the non-surgically treated group. We found no contraindications to operate on a skeletally immature patient.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:354–9.

Early outcome of arthroscopic Bankart's repair for recurrent traumatic anterior shoulder instability

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Despite the improvements in the methods of arthroscopic stabilization of anterior shoulder instability, a recurrence rate of as high as 30% is reported in the literature. In this context, we report the outcome of arthroscopic Bankart repair in anterior shoulder instability, with the use of bio-absorbable suture anchors for patients that were followed up for at least two years from the date of surgery. The arthroscopic method offers a less invasive technique of Bankart repair for traumatic anterior shoulder instability. We would like to report the 2-year clinical outcomes of bio-absorbable suture anchors used in traumatic anterior dislocations of the shoulder.

METHODS

Data from 79 shoulders in 74 patients were collected over 4 years (2005-2009). Each patient was followed up over a period of 2 years. The patients underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair using bio-absorbable suture anchors for their anterior shoulder instability. These surgeries were performed at a single institution by a single surgeon over the time period. The patients were assessed with two different outcome measurement tools. The University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder rating scale and the Simple Shoulder Test (SST) score. The scores were calculated before surgery and at the 2-year follow-up. The recurrence rates, range of motion as well post-operative function and return to sporting activities were evaluated.

RESULTS

SST results from the 12 domains showed a significant improvement from a mean of 6.1 ± 3.1 to 11.1 ± 1.8 taken at the 2-year follow-up (p < 0.0001). Data from the UCLA scale showed a pre and post-operative mean of 20.2 ± 5.0 and 32.4 ± 4.6 respectively (p < 0.0001). 34 had excellent post-operative scores, 35 had good scores, 1 had fair score and 3 had poor scores. 75% of the patients returned to sports while 7.6% developed a recurrence of shoulder dislocation or subluxation.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic Bankart repair with the use of suture anchors is a reliable treatment method, with good clinical outcomes, excellent post-operative shoulder motion and low recurrence rates.

Long term results of arthroscopic Bankart repair for traumatic anterior shoulder instability

Background

The arthroscopic method offers a less invasive technique of Bankart repair for traumatic anterior shoulder instability. We would like to report the 2 year clinical outcomes of bio-absorbable suture anchors used in traumatic anterior dislocations of the shoulder.

Methods

Data from 79 shoulders in 74 patients were collected over 4 years (2004 - 2008). Each patient was followed-up over a period of 2 years. The patients underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair using bio-absorbable suture anchors for their shoulder instability. These surgeries were performed at a single institution by a single surgeon over the time period. The patients were assessed with two different outcome measurement tools. The University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder rating scale and the Simple Shoulder Test (SST) score. The scores were calculated before surgery and at the 2-year follow-up. The recurrence rates, range of motion as well post-operative function and return to sporting activities were evaluated.

Results

SST results from the 12 domains showed a significant improvement from a mean of 6.1 ± 3.1 to 11.1 ± 1.8 taken at the 2-year follow-up (p < 0.0001). Data from the UCLA scale showed a Pre and Post Operative Mean of 20.2 ± 5.0 and 32.4 ± 4.6 respectively (p < 0.0001). 34 had excellent post-operative scores, 35 had good scores, 1 had fair score and 3 had poor scores. 75% of the patients returned to sports while 7.6% developed a recurrence of shoulder dislocation or subluxation.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic Bankart repair with the use of suture anchors is a reliable treatment method, with good clinical outcomes, excellent post-operative shoulder motion and low recurrence rates.

[Shoulder instability and rotator cuff tear]

A rotator cuff tear as a complication of anterior shoulder dislocation is well known in patients over 40 years old. The incidence of this accompanying injury correlates with the patient's age and the number of redislocations. The tear localization and dimension depend on the patient's age. To what extent these tears are a complication of shoulder dislocation is often unclear, as rotator cuff tears and glenohumeral instability interact. Reports on this combined injury pattern are rare, but based on the patient's age, activity level, and functional demand, therapeutic concepts have been devised. In active patients younger than 60 years and in cases of redislocation, both the rotator cuff tear and the capsule-labrum-ligament lesion should be reconstructed arthroscopically. In lesser active patients age 60 years or older, an isolated rotator cuff reconstruction is often sufficient to stabilize the glenohumeral joint. This treatment concept shows a predominantly good outcome.As a special form of anterior shoulder dislocation, a rotator cuff tear and a plexus brachialis lesion--the"terrible triad of the shoulder"--is described here.

[Unstable shoulder dislocation]

Shoulder dislocations are a frequent event and the severity is often underestimated. A thorough clinical investigation and adapted imaging diagnostics are able to detect age-dependent injury patterns. A biphasic conservative treatment keeping the arm in a neutral to mild external rotation for 3 weeks has proven to be most effective and should be followed by an intensive physiotherapy. Nevertheless, conservative treatment protocols show unacceptable recurrence rates particularly in young men active in sport, therefore, surgical stabilisation is recommended. In the past open procedures were accepted as the gold standard, but today arthroscopic Bankart repair using suture anchors shows comparable recurrence rates. However, the clinical outcome with respect to the shoulder function is much better without compromising the subscapularis muscle.

[Rupture of the arteria subscapularis following reduction of an anterior shoulder dislocation]

Anterior shoulder dislocations are one of the most common problems seen in an emergency department. Doubtless, immediate reduction is necessary for treatment, a procedure that is extremely rarely accompanied by complications. In these cases early diagnosis and treatment may be limb saving. We report a case with rupture of the arteria subscapularis following reduction of an anterior shoulder dislocation with formation of an axillary hematoma and consecutive paresis of the plexus brachialis. Interdisciplinary operative revision was necessary to remove the hematoma, stop the hemorrhage and for neurolysis of the plexus brachialis. Treatment resulted in a speedy recovery of the patient. Gentle reduction of a dislocated shoulder is a prerequisite for a low complication rate. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography facilitated diagnosis of the hematoma and identification of the bleeding vessel.

Posttraumatische Schulterinstabilit�t im Wachstumsalter

BACKGROUND

Post-traumatic shoulder instability in adolescence represents a very rare condition. However, most of these patients develop recurrent shoulder dislocations over time.

METHODS

We report about a retrospective study, which included 32 patients younger than 16 years of age. The mean follow-up was 5 years. Our evaluation focussed on patients' age at the time of first shoulder dislocation, type of injury, and the results after conservative and operative treatment.

RESULTS

After the first dislocation, all shoulders were immobilized for 3 weeks and were treated with physiotherapy afterwards. Of these 32 patients, 30 (94%) developed recurrent shoulder dislocations. Eight patients remained in a conservative regimen (age <15 years) and 21 patients were operated for persistent shoulder instability (age >15 years). The recurrence rate was 8 of 21 patients (36.5%) in the operative group and 4 of 8 patients in the conservative group. At the time of follow-up, 4 of 8 conservatively treated patients had returned to their former sports activities and 15 of 21 (71%) in the operated group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results on post-traumatic shoulder instability in adolescence show high recurrence rates in both conservative and operative groups. After adolescence, including ossification of the glenoid, operative treatment is able to decrease the recurrence rate and to increase the sports ability of these young patients.