Incidence of glenohumeral instability in collegiate athletics

Risk factors for, and prevention of, shoulder injuries in overhead sports: a systematic review with best-evidence synthesis

Objective

To assess the evidence for risk factors and prevention measures for shoulder injuries in overhead sports.

Design

Systematic review with best-evidence synthesis.

Data sources

Medline (Ovid), PubMed (complementary search), Embase (Elsevier), Cochrane (Wiley), SPORTDiscus (Ebsco) and Web of Science Core Collection (Thomson Reuters), from 1 January 1990 to 15 May 2017.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Randomised controlled trials, cohort studies and case-control studies on risk factors or prevention measures for shoulder injuries in overhead sports. The eligible studies were quality assessed using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network criteria.

Results

Of 4778 studies identified, 38 were eligible for quality review and 17 met the quality criteria to be included in the evidence synthesis. One additional quality study presented a shoulder injury prevention programme. Most studies focused on baseball, lacrosse or volleyball (n=13). The risk factors examined included participation level (competition vs training) (n=10), sex (n=4), biomechanics (n=2) and external workload (n=2). The evidence for all risk factors was limited or conflicting. The effect of the prevention programme within the subgroup of uninjured players at baseline was modest and possibly lacked statistical power.

Conclusions

All investigated potential risk factors for shoulder injury in overhead sports had limited evidence, and most were non-modifiable (eg, sex). There is also limited evidence for the effect of shoulder injury prevention measures in overhead sports.

PROSPERO trial registration number

CRD42015026850.

Clinical Outcomes Following the Latarjet Procedure in Contact and Collision Athletes

BACKGROUND

Few studies have evaluated the success of the Latarjet procedure for recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability in the contact or collision athlete. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the return-to-sport and functional results of the Latarjet procedure in this select group.

METHODS

One hundred and nine consecutive contact or collision athletes (112 shoulders) treated with an open Latarjet procedure for recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability were retrospectively identified. Seventy-three shoulders in 73 patients (67%) were evaluated at a mean follow-up of 52 months (range, 24 to 120 months). The average age at surgery was 25.8 years (range, 15 to 54 years). The primary outcomes were the scores on the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) questionnaire, a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and return to sport. Predictors of return to sport were analyzed.

RESULTS

Six (8%) of the 73 patients experienced ≥1 postoperative dislocations. Ten additional patients (14%) experienced a perception of instability without a dislocation. The median postoperative WOSI and ASES scores were 382 (range, 0 to 2,016) and 93.3 (range, 21.7 to 100), respectively. The median postoperative VAS pain score was 0 (range, 0 to 10). Forty-nine percent (36) of the 73 patients returned to their preoperative sports level, 14% (10) decreased their activity level in the same sport, 12% (9) changed sports, and 25% (18) decreased their level of activity and changed sports or stopped participating in sports altogether. Patients with ≥2 stabilization procedures prior to the Latarjet procedure demonstrated a lower likelihood of returning to their original sport (p = 0.019; relative risk = 2.84; 95% confidence interval = 1.34 to 6.06). The percentage of glenoid bone loss showed no association with the return-to-sport rate (p = 0.507).

CONCLUSIONS

The outcome of the Latarjet procedure in high-risk contact or collision athletes is variable. Patients who have fewer prior stabilization surgical procedures are more likely to successfully return to their original sport.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Editorial Commentary: Reviewing the Science of Our Unscientific Criteria for Return to Sports After Shoulder Stabilization

In contrast to anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, there is a paucity of primary studies that address the issue of return to play after anterior shoulder stabilization for glenohumeral instability. Most studies focused on clinical outcomes after anterior shoulder stabilization provide little detail on the authors' assessment protocols used in determining return to sport readiness. In fact, many issues germane to the postoperative rehabilitation process (biologic healing, motion recovery, strength recovery, and sport-specific considerations) remain poorly defined, and are not typically addressed using validated shoulder outcomes instruments. Sports medicine surgeons need more objective criteria on which to base their clinical decision making with athletes treated for anterior glenohumeral instability.

Return to Play Criteria Following Surgical Stabilization for Traumatic Anterior Shoulder Instability: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

To identify and describe in the existing literature any criteria used for return to play following surgical stabilization for traumatic, anterior shoulder instability.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review evaluating surgical stabilization for primary traumatic anterior shoulder instability in skeletally mature patients with a minimum of 1-year follow-up using Level I to IV studies in PubMed and EMBASE from January 1994 to January 2017.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight studies with at least 1 explicitly stated criterion for return to play were identified from a review of more than 5,100 published articles. Seven different categories of return to play criteria were identified, the most common of which were time from surgery (89.6%), strength (18.9%), and range of motion (13.8%). Pain, stability, proprioception, and postoperative radiographic evaluation were also used. As hypothesized, in 75.8% of the included studies (44/58), time was the only criterion explicitly used. The most commonly used time for return to play was 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review identifies 7 criteria that have been used in the available literature to determine when patients are ready to return to play; however, consistent with our hypothesis, 75% of studies used time from surgery as the sole listed criterion, with the most commonly used time point of 6 months postoperative. All of these criteria can be used in future research to develop a comprehensive checklist of functional criteria in hopes of reducing recurrent injury.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, systematic review.

Incidence and Changing Trends of Shoulder Stabilization in the United States

PURPOSE

To determine the incidence and demographic characteristics of shoulder stabilization in the United States, with particular focus on age, sex, and inpatient versus outpatient treatment.

METHODS

The National Hospital Discharge Survey and the National Survey of Ambulatory Surgery databases were searched using a combination of International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision diagnosis and procedure codes, encompassing open and arthroscopic shoulder stabilization procedures. Incidence was determined using National Survey of Ambulatory Surgery, National Hospital Discharge Survey, and US census data, and the results were stratified by age, sex, facility, and concomitant diagnoses. Data were analyzed between 1994 and 2006, the most recent year for which data are available within these sources.

RESULTS

The incidence of shoulder stabilization in the United States was 5.84 per 100,000 person-years (n = 15,514; 95% confidence interval, 11,975-19,053) in 1994 to 1996 and 6.89 per 100,000 person-years (n = 20,588; 95% confidence interval, 16,254-24,922) in 2006 (P = .0697). The number of inpatient procedures decreased significantly whereas the number of outpatient procedures increased significantly over the same period (P < .0001 for both). The incidence of stabilization increased in patients aged 45 to 64 years (P < .0001) and patients aged 65 years or older (P = .0008) but was unchanged in patients aged 44 years or younger (P = .4745). The average age of patients undergoing stabilization increased over the study period, from 30 years to 47 years for inpatients (P = .01) and from 27 years to 34 years for ambulatory patients (P = .05). The incidence of stabilization increased significantly in male patients (P = .0075) but remained stable in female patients (P = .8057) over the same period. Diagnoses related to rotator cuff pathology and shoulder derangement were the most common concurrent diagnosis codes.

CONCLUSIONS

The overall incidence of shoulder stabilization in the United States is 6.89 per 100,000 person-years. The incidence increased by 18% between 1994 and 2006. During the study period, shoulder stabilization shifted to become a largely outpatient procedure, and the average age increased significantly.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Epidemiology of glenohumeral dislocation and subsequent instability in an urban population

BACKGROUND

Glenohumeral dislocation is the most commonly encountered adult joint instability. The epidemiology in the United Kingdom and worldwide is unclear and often limited to young, active groups that are not representative of general populations. Information regarding epidemiology and outcome from a first dislocation is useful for trauma service planning and patient counseling. We calculated the incidence of shoulder instability after a first dislocation in our urban population and investigated predictors of recurrent instability.

METHODS

A prospectively collected trauma database was retrospectively examined to identify patients with a first-time dislocation. Demographics, subsequent dislocation, and instability details were collected from electronic patient records.

RESULTS

In a 38-month study period, 329 first dislocations occurred in a population of 475,147 with mean follow-up 28.5 months (range, 10-50 months). The overall incidence for first-time dislocations in this population was 21.9 per 100,000 population, of which 7.9% sustained a redislocation and 6.1% had further symptomatic instability. There were 18.8% with associated greater tuberosity fractures, 8.8% sustained a nerve injury, and 2.7% were posterior dislocations. A bimodal distribution was observed for males (peak incidence per 100,000 of 42.1 and 50.9 in 15-24 and ≥85 age groups, respectively), and unimodal for females (peak 45.7 in the 65-74 age group).

CONCLUSION

We demonstrate a previously unreported burden of dislocation in older age groups and suggest a rate of recurrence lower than previously reported in the United Kingdom. The group aged 15 to 19 years was at the highest risk of recurrent dislocation and instability. Gender was not a significant predictor of instability.

Back to Sports After Arthroscopic Revision Bankart Repair

BACKGROUND

Recurrent instability following primary arthroscopic stabilization of the shoulder is a common complication. Young, athletic patients are at the greatest risk of recurring instability. To date, the literature contains insufficient description regarding whether return to sports is possible after revision arthroscopic Bankart repair.

HYPOTHESIS

Patients presenting with recurrent instability after primary arthroscopic stabilization should expect limitations in terms of their ability to partake in sporting activities after revision surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Twenty athletes who underwent arthroscopic revision stabilization of the shoulder after failed primary arthroscopic Bankart repair were included in the study after completing inclusion and exclusion criteria surveys. Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System (ASOSS), Shoulder Sport Activity Score (SSAS), and the Subjective Patient Outcome for Return to Sports (SPORTS) scores were determined to assess the participants' ability to partake in sporting activities. Furthermore, sport type and sport level were classified and recorded. To assess function and stability, Rowe, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, Constant-Murley, and Walch-Duplay scores were measured and recorded.

RESULTS

Follow-up consultations were carried out after a mean of 28.7 months. The mean age at follow-up examination was 27.75 years. At the time of follow-up, 70% of the patients were able to return to their original sporting activities at the same level. However, 90% of patients described a limitation in their shoulder when participating in their sports. At 28.7 months after surgery, the mean ASOSS score was 76.8; the SSAS score decreased from 7.85 before first-time dislocation to 5.35 at follow-up (P < .005). The SPORTS score was 5.2 out of 10 at the follow-up consultation. Function- and instability-specific scores showed good to excellent results. The mean external rotational deficit for high external rotation was 9.25°, and for low external rotation it was 12°.

CONCLUSION

Patients can return to their original type and level of sport after arthroscopic revision Bankart repair, but they must expect persistent deficits and limitations to the shoulder when put under the strains of sporting activity. Patients with shoulder injuries who partake in sports that put greater demand on the shoulder show the smallest probabilities of returning to sporting activity.

Outcomes of the Latarjet Procedure Compared With Bankart Repair for Recurrent Traumatic Anterior Shoulder Instability

Reference/Citation:  An VV, Sivakumar BS, Phan K, Trantalis J. A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical and patient-reported outcomes following two procedures for recurrent traumatic anterior instability of the shoulder: Latarjet procedure vs. Bankart repair. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2016;25(5):853-863.

CLINICAL QUESTION

  Are clinical and patient-reported outcomes different between the Latarjet and Bankart repair stabilization procedures when performed for recurrent traumatic anterior shoulder instability?

DATA SOURCES

  Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane databases, American College of Physicians Journal Club, and Database of Abstracts of Review of Effectiveness were searched up to June 2015. The search terms used were Bankart AND Latarjet OR Bristow.

STUDY SELECTION

  Criteria used to include studies that (1) were written in English; (2) compared the outcomes of any Latarjet procedure (Bristow-Latarjet, coracoid transfer, or modified Bristow) with Bankart repair (anatomic); (3) reported a minimum of 1 outcome of recurrence, redislocation, revision, or patient-reported outcome measure; and (4) reported original data.

DATA EXTRACTION

  Data presented in any format (text, table, figure) were extracted from all included studies. The quality of each study was assessed using the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) checklist. Summary statistics were reported as relative risks and weighted mean differences. Fixed-effects (the assumed treatment effect was the same across studies) and random-effects (variations in treatment effect were assumed among studies) models were tested. Heterogeneity between trials was assessed using the χ² statistic, and the amount (percentage) of variation across studies due to heterogeneity was calculated using the I ² statistic. Forest plots were used to present pooled results.

MAIN RESULTS

  After the initial search, 245 articles were identified. After we applied the inclusion criteria, a total of 8 studies reporting on 795 patients (Latarjet = 379, Bankart = 416) were included in this review. Using the National Health and Medical Research Council's level of evidence, the authors scored 7 of the studies at level III and 1 study at level II. All Latarjet procedures were performed using an open technique, whereas the Bankart procedure was performed open in 6 studies and arthroscopically in 2 studies. The demographics of the patients (age, proportion of males to females, proportion with surgery on the dominant side, and proportion of revisions) were similar between the 2 surgical procedures. Four groups reported that patients who underwent the Latarjet procedure had fewer recurrences than patients in the Bankart repair group (11.6% versus 21.1%, respectively), irrespective of whether the Bankart was performed open or arthroscopically. Similarly, 4 groups observed that the Latarjet procedure resulted in fewer postsurgical redislocations (5.0%) than the Bankart (9.5%) procedure, irrespective of whether the repair was open or arthroscopic. The authors of 7 studies noted no differences between the 2 procedures in revision rates (Latarjet: 3.4%, Bankart: 4.5%), and 8 studies demonstrated no differences in complications requiring reoperation (Latarjet: 5.0%, Bankart: 3.1%). Investigators in 7 studies used the Rowe score to measure patient-reported satisfaction and function; patients who underwent the Latarjet procedure reported better Rowe scores postsurgically than patients who underwent the Bankart repair (scores: 79.0 and 85.4, respectively). Researchers in 4 studies reported a loss of external-rotation range of motion, which was less in the Latarjet (11.5°) compared with the Bankart (20.9°) procedure. Of the 5 groups that reported return to function, a trend suggested that a greater proportion of patients who underwent the Latarjet procedure returned to work, sport, and throwing activities compared with those who underwent the Bankart repair.

CONCLUSIONS

  The Latarjet procedure produced fewer recurrences, better patient-reported outcomes, and less restricted external-rotation motion than the Bankart repair.

Return to play after shoulder instability in National Football League athletes

HYPOTHESIS

We hypothesized that National Football League (NFL) players sustaining a shoulder destabilizing injury could return to play (RTP) successfully at a high rate regardless of treatment type.

METHODS

We identified and evaluated 83 NFL players who sustained an in-season shoulder instability event while playing in the NFL. NFL RTP, incidence of surgery, time to RTP, recurrent instability events, seasons/games played after the injury, and demographic data were collected. Overall RTP was determined, and players who did and did not undergo operative repair were compared.

RESULTS

Ninety-two percent of NFL players returned to NFL regular season play at a median of 0.0 weeks in those sustaining a shoulder subluxation and 3.0 weeks in those sustaining a dislocation who did not undergo surgical repair (P = .029). Players who underwent operative repair returned to play at a median of 39.3 weeks. Forty-seven percent of players had a recurrent instability event. For players who were able to RTP, those who underwent surgical repair (31%) had a lower recurrence rate (26% vs. 55%, P = .021) and longer interval between a recurrent instability event after RTP (14.7 vs. 2.5 weeks, P = .050).

CONCLUSION

There is a high rate of RTP after shoulder instability events in NFL players. Players who sustain shoulder subluxations RTP faster but are more likely to experience recurrent instability than those with shoulder dislocations. Surgical stabilization of the shoulder after an instability event decreases the chances of a second instability event and affords a player a greater interval between the initial injury and a recurrent event.

Dynamic brace is a good option to treat first anterior shoulder dislocation in season

PURPOSE

We evaluate the ability of in-season competitive athletes to return to competition after an anterior shoulder instability treated conservatively with a new dynamic brace combined with a specific rehabilitation program.

METHODS

Twenty soccer players affected by traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation have been enrolled in the "Footballer In Season Fast Rehab" project during 2 consecutive football seasons. We excluded patients affected by rotator cuff tears and the bony defect over 25%. All the players have been treated the day after the first dislocation with a new dynamic brace used until the end of the second month after the first glenohumeral dislocation combined with a specific rehab protocol. Athletes were evaluated for the time necessary to completely resume sport activities, to complete the season, and for the recurrence of dislocation.

RESULTS

All the athletes enrolled in this study were able to come back on the ground in approximately 40 days after the dislocation except 2 of them. Only two athletes claimed a slight discomfort at the return to play. One athlete had a traumatic relapse of the instability, 50 days after the dislocation. Another athlete claimed to have had a subluxation during a training session 45 days after the dislocation. 90% of the athletes were able to end the season without any shoulder discomfort.

CONCLUSIONS

The dynamic brace combined to the rehabilitation protocol represents the solution that allows a quick start of resumption of training while maintaining a stable pain-free shoulder.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 4.

Return to Sports After Shoulder Stabilization Surgery for Anterior Shoulder Instability

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Young athletes continue to experience traumatic shoulder instability and are often plagued by recurrent instability, limiting their return to sport. The purpose of this paper was to review return to sport in athletes after shoulder stabilization surgery for anterior shoulder instability.

RECENT FINDINGS

Athletes managed nonoperatively demonstrate unacceptably high rates of recurrent instability and are less likely to successfully return to sport. Operative management includes capsuloligamentous repair (arthroscopic versus open) and bone augmentation techniques. While modern arthroscopic techniques have provided favorable outcomes, open techniques have demonstrated lower recurrence rates among young collision athletes. A subset of athletes continue to experience recurrent instability, leading to further investigation of concomitant pathologies, which may put patients at risk of failure following Bankart repair. Bony augmentation procedures remain favorable for patients with glenoid bone loss; however, what constitutes critical bone loss in the decision between anterior labral repair versus bone augmentation has recently been questioned. Operative management of anterior shoulder instability provides superior results, including lower recurrent instability and return to sport. Future research on patient-specific risk factors may aid surgical decision-making and optimization of outcomes.

Incidence of shoulder dislocations in the UK, 1995-2015: a population-based cohort study

OBJECTIVE

This cohort study evaluates the unknown age-specific and gender-specific incidence of primary shoulder dislocations in the UK.

SETTING

UK primary care data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) were used to identify patients aged 16-70 years with a shoulder dislocation during 1995-2015. Coding of primary shoulder dislocations was validated using the CPRD general practitioner questionnaire service.

PARTICIPANTS

A cohort of 16 763 patients with shoulder dislocation aged 16-70 years during 1995-2015 were identified.

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURE

Incidence rates per 100 000 person-years and 95% CIs were calculated.

RESULTS

Correct coding of shoulder dislocation within CPRD was 89% (95% CI 83% to 95%), and confirmation that the dislocation was a 'primary' was 76% (95% CI 67% to 85%). Seventy-two percent of shoulder dislocations occurred in men. The overall incidence rate in men was 40.4 per 100 000 person-years (95% CI 40.4 to 40.4), and in women was 15.5 per 100 000 person-years (95% CI 15.5 to 15.5). The highest incidence was observed in men aged 16-20 years (80.5 per 100 000 person-years; 95% CI 80.5 to 80.6). Incidence in women increased with age to a peak of 28.6 per 100 000 person-years among those aged 61-70 years.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first time the incidence of shoulder dislocations has been studied using primary care data from a national database, and the first time the results for the UK have been produced. While most primary dislocations occurred in young men, an unexpected finding was that the incidence increased in women aged over 50 years, but not in men. The reasons for this are unknown. Further work is commissioned by the National Institute for Health Research to examine treatments and predictors for recurrent shoulder dislocation.

STUDY REGISTRATION

The design of this study was approved by the Independent Scientific Advisory Committee (15_260) for the Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency.

Acute Versus Delayed Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Associated Abnormalities in Traumatic Anterior Shoulder Dislocations

Background:

The delayed management of patients with shoulder instability may increase the prevalence and severity of concomitant intra-articular shoulder injuries resulting from persistent subluxations and dislocations.

Hypothesis:

Patients with a longer delay from the initial dislocation event to undergoing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or magnetic resonance arthrography will demonstrate more subluxations or dislocations and a greater amount of intra-articular shoulder damage.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective review of 89 patients from a single institution with clinically and radiographically confirmed primary traumatic anterior shoulder dislocations. Patients were divided into 2 groups: those undergoing MRI less than 6 months (n = 44; LT6) or greater than 6 months (n = 45; GT6) from the initial dislocation event. The MRI assessment included evaluation of soft tissue injuries, including the labrum, capsule, rotator cuff, and cartilage damage severity along with bone loss.

Results:

The delayed MRI group (GT6) demonstrated a greater degree of intra-articular abnormalities compared to the early MRI group (LT6). A greater percentage of superior labral anterior-posterior (SLAP) tears (58% vs 34%, respectively) and cartilage damage (73% vs 27%, respectively) was present in the GT6 group compared to the LT6 group. Cartilage damage was 18% mild, 7% moderate, and 2% severe for the LT6 group as compared to 38% mild, 31% moderate, and 4% severe for the GT6 group. Additionally, more recurrent shoulder dislocations were seen in the GT6 group (n = 6) compared to the LT6 group (n = 2). In the LT6 group, there were more rotator cuff tears (50% vs 24%, respectively) and capsular tears (25% vs 9%, respectively) than the GT6 group. There was no difference in anterior glenoid bone loss, glenoid version, or humeral head subluxation between the 2 groups.

Conclusion:

Patients who undergo MRI greater than 6 months from the time of primary or initial shoulder dislocation had significantly more recurrent shoulder instability events and demonstrated a greater incidence and severity of intra-articular abnormalities, including SLAP tears, posterior labral tears, and anterior glenoid cartilage damage.

Arthroscopic Stabilization After a First-Time Dislocation: Collision Versus Contact Athletes

BACKGROUND

There is no universally accepted definition of "contact" or "collision" sports in the literature. The few available studies evaluating contact and collision sports consider them to be synonymous. However, athletes in collision sports purposely hit or collide with each other or with inanimate objects with greater force and frequency than in contact sports, which could jeopardize functional outcomes.

PURPOSE

To compare the functional outcomes, return to sports, and recurrences in a series of contact and collision athletes with a first-time anterior shoulder dislocation treated using arthroscopic stabilization with suture anchors.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

A total of 56 athletes were enrolled in this study, including 22 contact athletes and 34 collision athletes. All athletes underwent arthroscopic shoulder stabilization using suture anchors. Range of motion, the Rowe score, a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and the Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System (ASOSS) were used to assess functional outcomes. Return to sports and recurrences were also evaluated.

RESULTS

The mean age at the time of surgery was 22.2 years, and the mean follow-up was 62.4 months (range, 36-94 months). No significant difference in shoulder motion was found between preoperative and postoperative results or between the contact and collision groups. The Rowe, VAS, and ASOSS scores showed statistical improvement in both groups after surgery (P = .001). Patients in the contact group returned to sports significantly faster than those in the collision group (5.2 vs 6.9 months, respectively; P = .01). In all, 43 athletes (76.8%) returned to near-preinjury sports activity levels (≥90% recovery) after surgery: 86.4% of patients in the contact group and 70.6% in the collision group (P = .04). The total recurrence rate was 8.9%. There were 5 recurrences (14.7%) in the collision group and no recurrences in the contact group (P < .01).

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic stabilization for anterior instability of the shoulder is a reliable procedure with respect to shoulder function, range of motion, and postoperative return to sports in contact and collision athletes. Compared with the contact group (0%), the collision group yielded a higher failure rate (14.7%). Moreover, patients in the contact group returned significantly faster (5.2 vs 6.9 months, respectively) and to and more returned to preinjury or near-preinjury activity levels (86.4% vs 70.6% of patients, respectively) than patients in the collision group.

[Initial management of traumatic ventral shoulder dislocation]

BACKGROUND

In the current literature a consensus on the specific management of primary anterior traumatic shoulder instability has not been reached. While the steps of the initial diagnostic and therapeutic procedures are mostly well-defined, a variety of factors need to be considered for the planning of further treatment.

OBJECTIVE

This article aims at giving an overview of the essential aspects of the initial management in the rescue center, clinical and radiological diagnostic procedures and the subsequent treatment options.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The content of this article is based on our own clinical experiences in combination with a systematic literature search for relevant clinical and baseline studies.

RESULTS

Besides a detailed anamnesis and clinical examination, X‑rays in two planes are important for the diagnosis. Potential nerve injuries or fractures need to be borne in mind before and after reduction of the joint and documented accordingly. The Matsen's maneuver can be recommended as it enables a careful repositioning. In rare cases of an irreducible shoulder dislocation due to soft tissue or bony articular interpositions, an open reduction might be necessary. Further therapeutic concepts should be adapted to patient age, activity level and accompanying pathologies, which determine the risk of a recurrent dislocation. A surgical approach for stabilization of the shoulder is highly recommended in cases of concomitant bony defects as well as in young and physically active patients.

CONCLUSION

A well-structured treatment plan is essential for the initial management of primary anterior traumatic shoulder instability. A generally applicable algorithm for further management is not yet established. The treatment should therefore be individually planned based on patient-specific characteristics.

Successful Return to Sport After Arthroscopic Shoulder Stabilization Versus Nonoperative Management in Contact Athletes With Anterior Shoulder Instability: A Prospective Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND

The debate continues regarding the optimal treatment of intercollegiate contact athletes with in-season anterior shoulder instability.

PURPOSE

To examine return to sport and recurrent instability in the season after the index in-season anterior instability event.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

Forty-five contact intercollegiate athletes treated nonoperatively or with arthroscopic stabilization were prospectively followed in a multicenter observational study to evaluate return to play (RTP) and recurrent instability in the season after an initial in-season anterior glenohumeral instability event. Baseline data collection included sport played, previous instability events, direction of instability, type of instability (subluxation or dislocation), and treatment method (nonoperative management or arthroscopic stabilization). All nonoperatively treated athletes underwent a standardized accelerated rehabilitation program without shoulder immobilization. Surgical stabilization was performed arthroscopically in all cases, and successful RTP was evaluated during the next competitive season after complete rehabilitation.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine of 45 intercollegiate contact athletes had remaining National Collegiate Athletic Association eligibility and were followed through the subsequent competitive season after the index instability event. Of the 10 athletes electing nonoperative treatment, 4 (40%) successfully returned to play without recurrence during the subsequent season. Of the 29 athletes treated surgically, 26 (90%) were able to successfully return to play without recurrence the following season (recurrence: n = 1; inadequate function: n = 2). Athletes who underwent surgical reconstruction before the next season were 5.8 times (95% CI, 1.77-18.97; P = .004) more likely to complete the subsequent season without recurrent instability. Of the 29 athletes electing surgical stabilization, there was no difference (risk ratio, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.10-9.24; P > .99) in RTP between the 9 stabilized after a single instability event (90% RTP rate) and the 20 stabilized after multiple in-season recurrent instability events (89% RTP rate).

CONCLUSION

Collegiate contact and collision athletes with in-season anterior shoulder instability are significantly more likely to successfully return to sport without subsequent instability events the next season if they undergo surgical repair in the off-season.

Prevalence and Impact of Glenoid Augmentation in American Football Athletes Participating in the National Football League Scouting Combine

Background:

Bony augmentation of the anterior glenoid is used in athletes with recurrent shoulder instability and bone loss; however, the prevalence and impact of repair in elite American football athletes are unknown.

Purpose:

To evaluate the prevalence and impact of glenoid augmentation in athletes invited to the National Football League (NFL) Scouting Combine from 2012 to 2015.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A total of 1311 athletes invited to the NFL Combine from 2012 to 2015 were evaluated for history of either Bristow or Latarjet surgery for recurrent anterior shoulder instability. Athlete demographics, surgical history, imaging, and physical examination results were recorded using the NFL Combine database. Prospective participation data with regard to draft status, games played, games started, and status after the athletes’ first season in the NFL were gathered using publicly available databases.

Results:

Surgical repair was performed on 10 shoulders in 10 athletes (0.76%), with the highest prevalence in defensive backs (30%; n = 3). Deficits in shoulder motion were exhibited in 70% (n = 7) of athletes, while 40% (n = 4) had evidence of mild glenohumeral arthritis and 80% demonstrated imaging findings consistent with a prior instability episode (8 labral tears, 2 Hill-Sachs lesions). Prospectively, 40% (n = 4) of athletes were drafted into the NFL. In the first season after the combine, athletes with a history of glenoid augmentation were not found to be at significant risk for diminished participation with regard to games played or started when compared with athletes with no history of glenoid augmentation or athletes undergoing isolated shoulder soft tissue repair. After the conclusion of the first NFL season, 60% (n = 6 athletes) were on an active NFL roster.

Conclusion:

Despite being drafted at a lower rate than their peers, there were no significant limitations in NFL participation for athletes with a history of glenoid augmentation when compared with athletes without a history of shoulder surgery or those with isolated soft tissue shoulder repair. Glenohumeral arthritis and advanced imaging findings of labral tearing and Hill-Sachs lesions in elite American football players with a history of glenoid augmentation did not significantly affect NFL participation 1 year after the combine.

Return to Play After Shoulder Instability Surgery in National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Intercollegiate Football Athletes

BACKGROUND

Recent attention has focused on the optimal surgical treatment for recurrent shoulder instability in young athletes. Collision athletes are at a higher risk for recurrent instability after surgery.

PURPOSE

To evaluate variables affecting return-to-play (RTP) rates in Division I intercollegiate football athletes after shoulder instability surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Invitations to participate were made to select sports medicine programs that care for athletes in Division I football conferences (Pac-12 Conference, Southeastern Conference [SEC], Atlantic Coast Conference [ACC]). After gaining institutional review board approval, 7 programs qualified and participated. Data on direction of instability, type of surgery, time to resume participation, and quality and level of play before and after surgery were collected.

RESULTS

There were 168 of 177 procedures that were arthroscopic surgery, with a mean 3.3-year follow-up. Overall, 85.4% of players who underwent arthroscopic surgery without concomitant procedures returned to play. Moreover, 15.6% of athletes who returned to play sustained subsequent shoulder injuries, and 10.3% sustained recurrent instability, resulting in reduction/revision surgery. No differences were noted in RTP rates in athletes who underwent anterior labral repair (82.4%), posterior labral repair (92.9%), combined anterior-posterior repair (84.8%; P = .2945), or open repair (88.9%; P = .9362). Also, 93.3% of starters, 95.4% of utilized players, and 75.7% of rarely used players returned to play. The percentage of games played before the injury was 49.9% and rose to 71.5% after surgery ( P < .0001). Athletes who played in a higher percentage of games before the injury were more likely to return to play; 91% of athletes who were starters before the injury returned as starters after surgery. Scholarship status significantly correlated with RTP after surgery ( P = .0003).

CONCLUSION

The majority of surgical interventions were isolated arthroscopic stabilization procedures, with no statistically significant difference in RTP rates when concomitant arthroscopic procedures or open stabilization procedures were performed. Athletes who returned to play often played in a higher percentage of games after surgery than before the injury, and many played at the same or a higher level after surgery.

Six-week physical rehabilitation protocol for anterior shoulder dislocation in athletes

Anterior shoulder dislocations are common in young athletes. The mechanism for the first or primary shoulder dislocation may involve a collision or a fall typically with the arm in an abducted and externally rotated position. The aim of this study was to design a physical rehabilitation program using the elastic band and resistive exercise to improve joint strength and range of motion in individuals diagnosed with a first-time shoulder dislocation. Twelve physically active males with a first-time acute shoulder dislocation were asked to volunteer. Participants began a physical rehabilitation program 2 weeks after the shoulder dislocation, which was confirmed by a referring physician. The rehabilitation program was 6 weeks in duration and required the participants to engage in progressive resistive loads/duration using elastic bands and weights 5 days per week. Pretest and posttest measures included shoulder strength and range of motion. All outcome measures were compared between the injured and uninjured shoulder, which served as the control condition in this study. There were statistically significant differences between the injured and uninjured shoulder for measures of strength and range of motion during pretests (P<0.01) but not post-tests (P<0.53). Finally, there were no differences between shoulders in regards to the volume measure suggesting that any changes in muscle atrophy or swelling were not detected. The physical rehabilitation program proposed in this study was effective at improving strength and range of motion in the injured shoulder as evidenced by the similarity in posttest values between the injured and uninjured shoulder.

The Effect of Subcritical Bone Loss and Exposure on Recurrent Instability After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair in Intercollegiate American Football

BACKGROUND

There is no consensus on the optimal method of stabilization (arthroscopic or open) in collision athletes with anterior shoulder instability.

PURPOSE

To examine the effect of "subcritical" bone loss and football-specific exposure on the rate of recurrent shoulder instability after arthroscopic stabilization in an intercollegiate American football population.

STUDY DESIGN

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

Fifty intercollegiate football players underwent primary arthroscopic stabilization for anterior shoulder instability and returned to football for at least a single season. Preoperatively, 32 patients experienced recurrent subluxations, and 18 patients experienced a single or recurrent dislocation. Shoulders with glenoid bone loss >20%, an engaging Hill-Sachs lesion, an off-track lesion, and concomitant rotator cuff repair were excluded from the study. The primary outcome of interest was the ability to return to football without subsequent instability. Patients were followed for time to a subsequent instability event after return to play using days of exposure to football and total follow-up time after arthroscopic stabilization.

RESULTS

Fifty consecutive patients returned to American football for a mean 1.5 seasons (range, 1-3) after arthroscopic stabilization. Three of 50 (6%; 95% CI, 1.3%-16.5%) patients experienced recurrent instability. There were no subsequent instability events after a mean 3.2 years of military service. All shoulders with glenoid bone loss >13.5% (n = 3) that underwent arthroscopic stabilization experienced recurrent instability upon returning to sport, while none of the shoulders with <13.5% glenoid bone loss (n = 47) sustained a recurrent instability event during football ( X² = 15.80, P < .001). Shoulders with >13.5% glenoid bone loss had an incidence rate of 5.31 cases of recurrent instability per 1000 athlete-exposures of football. In 72,000 athlete-exposures to football with <13.5% glenoid bone loss, there was no recurrent instability. Significantly more anchors were used during the primary arthroscopic stabilization procedure in patients who experienced multiple preoperative instability events ( P = .005), and lesions spanned significantly more extensive portions along the circumference of the glenoid ( P = .001) compared with shoulders having a single preoperative instability event before surgical stabilization.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic stabilization of anterior shoulder instability in American football players with <13.5% glenoid bone loss provides reliable outcomes and low recurrence rates.

Epidemiology of Shoulder Dislocations in High School and Collegiate Athletics in the United States: 2004/2005 Through 2013/2014

BACKGROUND

Shoulder dislocations occur frequently in athletes across a variety of sports. This study provides an updated descriptive epidemiological analysis of shoulder dislocations among high school and college athletes and compares injury rates and patterns across these age groups.

HYPOTHESIS

There would be no difference in injury rates/patterns between high school and college athletes.

STUDY DESIGN

Descriptive epidemiology study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 3.

METHODS

Shoulder dislocation data from the High School Reporting Information Online (RIO) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Injury Surveillance Program (ISP) databases were analyzed from the 2004/2005 through 2013/2014 (NCAA) or 2005/2006 through 2013/2014 (RIO) academic years in 11 different sports. Rate ratios (RRs) and injury proportion ratios (IPRs) were calculated to make comparisons between age groups.

RESULTS

During the study period, 598 shoulder dislocations were reported during 29,249,482 athlete-exposures (AEs) among high school athletes, for an overall shoulder dislocation rate of 2.04 per 100,000 AEs; 352 shoulder dislocations were reported during 13,629,533 AEs among college athletes, for an overall injury rate of 2.58 per 100,000 AEs. College athletes had a higher rate of shoulder dislocation than high school athletes (RR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.11-1.44). However, the injury rate in football was lower in collegiate than high school athletes (RR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.43-0.62). Surgery was performed to correct 28.0% of high school and 29.6% of college shoulder dislocations. Shoulder dislocations resulted in longer return-to-play times than other shoulder injuries.

CONCLUSION

Overall, shoulder dislocation rates were higher among collegiate than high school athletes. This may be due to greater contact forces involved in sports at higher levels of play, although the increased rate in high school football warrants additional research.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Higher shoulder dislocation rates within collegiate athletics are likely due to the higher level of intensity at this level of play, with stronger and faster athletes resulting in more forceful collisions.

Recurrent Shoulder Instability in a Young, Active, Military Population and Its Professional Implications

Background:

Shoulder instability is a topic of significant interest within the sports medicine literature, particularly regarding recurrence rates and the ideal treatment indications and techniques. Little has been published specifically addressing the occupational implications of symptomatic recurrent shoulder instability.

Hypothesis:

Previous arthroscopic repair will continue to be a significant predisposing factor for recurrent instability in a young, active population, and that recurrent instability may have a negative effect on college graduation and postgraduate occupational selection.

Study Design:

Case series.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective review of approved medical waivers for surgical treatment of anterior shoulder dislocation or instability prior to matriculation at the US Military Academy or the US Naval Academy for the graduating classes of 2010 to 2013. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the incidence and risk factors for recurrence and to determine the impact on graduation rate and occupation selection.

Results:

Fifty-nine patients were evaluated; 34% developed recurrent anterior instability. Patients with previous arthroscopic repair had a significantly higher incidence of recurrence (38%, P = 0.044). Recurrent shoulder instability did not significantly affect graduation rates or self-selected occupation (P ≥ 0.05).

Conclusion:

There is a significant rate of recurrent shoulder instability after primary surgical repair, particularly among young, active individuals. In addition, arthroscopic repair resulted in a significantly higher recurrence rate compared with open repair in our population. Surgical repair for shoulder instability should not necessarily preclude young individuals from pursuing (or being considered for) occupations that may place them at greater risk of recurrence.

Clinical Relevance:

The risk of recurrent instability is greater than the rate typically described, which may suggest that some subpopulations are at greater risk than others. A unique data point regarding instability is the effect on occupation selection.

Outcomes After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair in Adolescent Athletes Participating in Collision and Contact Sports

Background:

Literature on arthroscopic stabilization in adolescent patients participating in collision and contact sports is limited, as most studies include adolescents within a larger sample group comprised primarily of adults.

Purpose:

To review the outcomes of arthroscopic Bankart repair for anterior shoulder instability in an adolescent population participating in collision and contact sports.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This retrospective review included 39 shoulders in 37 adolescent (≤19 years) athletes who underwent primary arthroscopic Bankart repair using suture anchors with at least 2-year follow-up. All patients had a history of trauma to their shoulder resulting in an anterior dislocation. Outcome measures included patient satisfaction, the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and Rowe score. Recurrence of dislocation and return to sporting activity were also assessed.

Results:

The mean age at the time of surgery was 16.9 years (range, 15-19 years), and the mean follow-up was 6.3 years (range, 4.3-10.0 years); 58.6% of patients participated in collision sports. Time to surgery after the initial dislocation episode was 9.2 months (range, 0.5-36.2 months). Four shoulders (10.3%) had dislocation events postoperatively. The majority (78.1%) of patients returned to sports at the same level of competition. Mean VAS was 0.49 ± 1.0, and the mean ASES and Rowe scores were 92.8 ± 12.6 and 85.0 ± 24.2, respectively. Univariate analyses demonstrated that subjective functional outcomes were negatively correlated with recurrence (ASES, P = .005; Rowe, P = .001) and failure to return to sport (ASES, P = .016; Rowe, P = .004). Independent variables shown to have no significant relationship to functional outcomes included age, follow-up, number of preoperative dislocations, time to surgery, sport classification, competition level, tear extent, number of anchors, concurrent Hill-Sachs lesion, and repair of a superior labral anterior-posterior (SLAP) lesion.

Conclusion:

Arthroscopic Bankart repair is an effective surgical option for traumatic shoulder instability in adolescents participating in collision and contact sports. At a minimum 4-year follow-up, arthroscopic Bankart repair effectively restored stability in 90% of cases; 80% returned to their preinjury level of sport.

Current Concepts in the Diagnosis and Management of Traumatic, Anterior Glenohumeral Subluxations

Traumatic anterior glenohumeral subluxations comprise the majority of glenohumeral instability events and are endemic in young athletes. Unlike the definitive complete dislocation event, subluxation events may often be more subtle in presentation and, therefore, may be overlooked by clinicians. Glenohumeral subluxation events are associated with a high rate of labral tears as well as humeral head defects. While less is known of the natural history of these injuries, young athletes are at risk for recurrent instability events if not properly diagnosed and treated. While reports of surgical treatment outcomes isolated to subluxation events are limited, arthroscopic and open Bankart repair have been shown to result in excellent outcomes. The purpose of this paper is to review the etiology and pathoanatomy of traumatic anterior glenohumeral subluxations as well as to review the appropriate evaluation and management of patients with this injury.

Serum Cartilage Biomarkers and Shoulder Instability

Differences in cartilage biomarkers have been noted in patients with anterior cruciate ligament tears, but little is known about any similar relationship with shoulder instability. This study evaluated the relationship between serum cartilage biomarkers and shoulder instability. The authors present a prospective cohort study of young athletes followed from 2006 to 2010. A nested case-control analysis was conducted within this cohort to evaluate the association between preinjury collagen type II cleavage (a marker for type II collagen cleavage) and procollagen II carboxy propeptide (a marker of cartilage synthesis) and the subsequent likelihood of shoulder instability during the 4-year follow-up period. Preinjury collagen type II cleavage and procollagen II carboxy propeptide levels in 51 subjects who had shoulder instability were compared with levels in 210 subjects without documented anterior cruciate ligament or shoulder instability (control group) with commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Mean preinjury collagen type II cleavage levels in patients who subsequently had shoulder instability were significantly lower than those in the control group (73.91 vs 79.24 pg/mL, P=.03). No significant difference was found in preinjury procollagen II carboxy propeptide levels compared with the control group (359.94 vs 396.37, P=.24). This study is the first to examine the relationship between baseline collagen biomarkers and subsequent shoulder instability. The finding of lower baseline collagen type II cleavage levels in patients with subsequent shoulder instability may represent a genetic predisposition or a compensatory mechanism by which cartilage degradation is decreased in those who are more likely to have instability. [Orthopedics. 2017; 40(1):34-36.].

Generalized Joint Laxity and Ligament Injuries in High School-Aged Female Volleyball Players in Japan

Background:

Generalized joint laxity has been linked to ligamentous injuries such as anterior cruciate ligament tear and ankle sprain.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to investigate generalized joint laxity and incidence of ligament injuries in high school–aged female volleyball players. It was hypothesized that volleyball players with a past history of sprains would have increased generalized joint laxity compared with those without any history and that athletes with multiple sprains would demonstrate with a higher generalized joint laxity score than those who had only 1 sprain.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Forty-seven subjects were tested for generalized joint laxity using the Beighton and Horan Joint Mobility Index (BHJMI). They were categorized into 2 groups based on the presence of past ligament injury: injury group (IG) and noninjury group (NG). The IG group was further divided into 2 groups based on whether they had a single ligamentous injury (IGS) or multiple injuries (IGM) in the past to study whether there was any difference in scores between the subgroups. The collected data were analyzed statistically with 1-way analysis of variance.

Results:

Subjects in the IG group scored significantly higher on the BHJMI than those in the NG group. The mean score for the IG group was 2.40 ± 1.42, as opposed to 1.24 ± 1.09 for the NG group (P = .006). Eleven subjects in the IG group had suffered multiple injuries or recurrent injuries (IGM) and scored significantly higher than the remaining 19 individuals in the IG group, who had only sustained a single injury (IGS). The mean BHJMI scores were 3.18 ± 1.47 and 1.95 ± 1.22 for IGM and IGS, respectively (P = .02).

Conclusion:

Female athletes with a high generalized joint laxity score may be more prone to ligament injury and potentially to recurrent ligament injuries.

The Use of Accessory Portals in Bankart Repair With Posterior Extension in the Lateral Decubitus Position

The Bankart lesion, in which the anteroinferior labrum is detached from the glenoid, is the critical anatomic lesion in the majority of patients with anterior glenohumeral instability. Some patients with anterior glenohumeral instability will have Bankart lesions with posterior extension beyond the 6-o'clock position, and achieving anatomic labral repair in these cases can present a technical challenge. In our experience, the lateral decubitus position and use of accessory portals allow superior visualization of the inferior half of the glenohumeral joint for glenoid and labral preparation, anchor placement, and suture management. The use of double-loaded suture anchors at the inferior glenoid provides multiple points of fixation at this challenging location while limiting the number of anchors required. The purpose of this article is to present a simple and reproducible technique for arthroscopic repair of Bankart lesions with posterior extension, emphasizing the use of accessory 5-o'clock trans-subscapularis and 7-o'clock portals.

Shoulder Injuries in Pediatric Athletes

Shoulder injuries in pediatric athletes are typically caused by acute or overuse injuries. The developing structures of the shoulder lead to injury patterns that are distinct from those of adult athletes. Overuse injuries often affect the physeal structures of the proximal humerus and can lead to pain and loss of sports participation. Shoulder instability is common in pediatric athletes, and recurrence is also a concern in this population. Fractures of the proximal humerus and clavicle are typically treated with conservative management, but there is a trend toward surgical intervention.

Shoulder Injuries in Men's Collegiate Lacrosse, 2004-2009

BACKGROUND

Men's lacrosse has been one of the fastest growing team sports in the United States, at both the collegiate and high school levels. Uniquely, it combines both continuous overhead and contact activity. Thus, an understanding of its injury epidemiology and mechanisms is vital. Shoulder injuries have been shown to be common in the sport, but thus far there has been no dedicated analysis of these injuries with which to better inform injury prevention strategies.

STUDY DESIGN

Descriptive epidemiology study.

METHODS

All athlete exposures (AEs) and shoulder injuries reported to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Injury Surveillance System for intercollegiate men's lacrosse athletes from 2004-2005 through 2008-2009 were collected. Type of injury was documented and the injury incidence per 1000 AEs was calculated. Event type, injury mechanism, specific injury, outcome, and time lost were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using 95% CIs, calculated based on a normal approximation to Poisson distribution.

RESULTS

There were a total of 124 observed shoulder injuries during 229,591 monitored AEs. With weights, this estimates 1707 shoulder injuries over 2,873,973 AEs, for an incidence of 0.59 per 1000 AEs (95% CI, 0.56-0.62). The incidence of shoulder injury during competition was 1.89 per 1000 AEs (95% CI, 1.76-2.02), compared with 0.35 per 1000 AEs (95% CI, 0.33-0.38) during practice. Acromioclavicular joint injuries were most common (0.29 per 1000 AEs; 95% CI, 0.27-0.31). Labral injuries and instability events were also frequent (0.11 per 1000 AEs; 95% CI, 0.10-0.13). Player-to-player contact caused 57% of all shoulder injuries, with 25% due to contact with the playing surface. The average time lost was 11.0 days, with 41.9% of all shoulder injuries requiring ≥10 days. Clavicle fractures and posterior shoulder dislocation were particularly severe, with no athletes returning to play during the same season.

CONCLUSION

Shoulder injuries are common in NCAA men's lacrosse and are an important source of lost playing time. Acromioclavicular injuries were the most frequent injury in this series, but labral and instability injuries were also common. In this increasingly popular contact sport, an understanding of the epidemiology and mechanism of shoulder injuries may be used to improve protective equipment and develop injury prevention.

Redislocation risk after an arthroscopic Bankart procedure in collision athletes: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this review was to determine the redislocation risk for collision athletes after an arthroscopic Bankart repair and to compare the redislocation rate between collision athletes and noncollision athletes after an arthroscopic Bankart repair.

METHODS

A PubMed and Embase query was performed, screening all relevant literature of arthroscopic Bankart procedures mentioning redislocation rates in collision athletes. Studies with a follow-up <2 years or lacking information on redislocation rates in collision athletes were excluded. We used the modified Coleman Methodology Score to assess the quality of included studies. Finally, the data in all the studies were combined and analyzed.

RESULTS

There were 1012 studies screened on title and abstract, of which 111 studies were full-text screened, and finally 20 studies were included. Four studies reported on collision athletes only, whereas 16 compared collision with noncollision athletes. Fourteen studies reported increased redislocation rates for collision athletes in comparison to noncollision athletes (absolute risk difference varying from 0.4% to 28.6%), whereas 2 studies reported decreased rates (absolute risk differences of -6% and -2.4%). A combined analysis revealed that collision athletes have an increased absolute risk of 8.09 with 95% CI from 3.61 to 12.57% for development of postoperative instability in comparison to noncollision athletes (P = .001).

CONCLUSION

Collision athletes have an increased risk for redislocation in comparison to noncollision athletes after an arthroscopic Bankart repair, although there were no differences in return to sport.

Association Between Serum Relaxin and Subsequent Shoulder Instability

Ligamentous laxity correlates with shoulder instability. Relaxin is a hormone that has been linked to laxity in the knee and has been shown to be a risk factor for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. This study prospectively evaluated the association between relaxin and acute shoulder instability. A prospective cohort study of 1050 young athletes was performed between 2006 and 2010. The authors conducted a nested case-control analysis within this cohort to evaluate the association between preinjury serum relaxin concentration and the likelihood of subsequent shoulder instability. The study compared 53 patients who had shoulder instability and 53 control subjects who were matched for sex, age, height, and weight. The serum relaxin concentration in preinjury baseline samples was tested with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analysis in duplicate. Independent t tests were performed to identify differences in mean serum relaxin concentration between patients with shoulder instability and uninjured control subjects. Logistic regression was used to evaluate whether preinjury baseline serum relaxin concentration was associated with the subsequent likelihood of shoulder instability. Of the 53 patients with instability, 13 (25%) had a detectable serum relaxin concentration compared with 9 (17%) of uninjured control subjects (P=.34). Mean serum relaxin concentration in the injury group was 3.69±1.78 pg/mL and 2.20±0.97 pg/mL in uninjured control subjects (P=.02). Increased serum relaxin concentration was associated with the subsequent likelihood of acute shoulder instability. Subjects were 2.18 times (odds ratio, 2.18; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-4.76) more likely to have acute shoulder instability during the follow-up period for every 1-pg/mL increase in serum relaxin concentration at baseline. The findings suggest that serum relaxin concentration is associated with a risk of subsequent shoulder instability in young athletes. Further research on the role of relaxin in shoulder instability is warranted. [Orthopedics. 2016; 39(4):e724-e728.].

Current concepts in the management of recurrent anterior gleno-humeral joint instability with bone loss

The management of recurrent anterior gleno-humeral joint instability is challenging in the presence of bone loss. It is often seen in young athletic patients and dislocations related to epileptic seizures and may involve glenoid bone deficiency, humeral bone deficiency or combined bipolar lesions. It is critical to accurately identify and assess the amount and position of bone loss in order to select the most appropriate treatment and reduce the risk of recurrent instability after surgery. The current literature suggests that coracoid and iliac crest bone block transfers are reliable for treating glenoid defects. The treatment of humeral defects is more controversial, however, although good early results have been reported after arthroscopic Remplissage for small defects. Larger humeral defects may require complex reconstruction or partial resurfacing. There is currently very limited evidence to support treatment strategies when dealing with bipolar lesions. The aim of this review is to summarise the current evidence regarding the best imaging modalities and treatment strategies in managing this complex problem relating particularly to contact athletes and dislocations related to epileptic seizures.

Common Shoulder Injuries in American Football Athletes

American football is a collision sport played by athletes at high speeds. Despite the padding and conditioning in these athletes, the shoulder is a vulnerable joint, and injuries to the shoulder girdle are common at all levels of competitive football. Some of the most common injuries in these athletes include anterior and posterior glenohumeral instability, acromioclavicular pathology (including separation, osteolysis, and osteoarthritis), rotator cuff pathology (including contusions, partial thickness, and full thickness tears), and pectoralis major and minor tears. In this article, we will review the epidemiology and clinical and radiographic workup of these injuries. We also will evaluate the effectiveness of surgical and nonsurgical management specifically related to high school, collegiate, and professional football athletes.

A Clinical Review of Return-to-Play Considerations After Anterior Shoulder Dislocation

Context:

Shoulder dislocations are common in contact sports, yet guidelines regarding the best treatment strategy and time to return to play have not been clearly defined.

Evidence Acquisition:

Electronic databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase, were reviewed for the years 1980 through 2015.

Study Design:

Clinical review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Results:

Much has been published about return to play after anterior shoulder dislocation, but almost all is derived from expert opinion and clinical experience rather than from well-designed studies. Recommendations vary and differ depending on age, sex, type of sport, position of the athlete, time in the sport’s season, and associated pathology. Despite a lack of consensus and specific recommendations, there is agreement that before being allowed to return to sport, athletes should be pain free and demonstrate symmetric shoulder and bilateral scapular strength, with functional range of motion that allows sport-specific participation. Return to play usually occurs 2 to 3 weeks from the time of injury. Athletes with in-season shoulder instability returning to sport have demonstrated recurrence rates ranging from 37% to 90%. Increased bone loss, recurrent instability, and injury occurring near the end of season are all indications that may push surgeons and athletes toward earlier surgical intervention.

Conclusion:

Most athletes are able to return to play within 2 to 3 weeks but there is a high risk of recurrent instability.

Treatment of glenohumeral instability in rugby players

Rugby is a high-impact collision sport, with impact forces. Shoulder injuries are common and result in the longest time off sport for any joint injury in rugby. The most common injuries are to the glenohumeral joint with varying degrees of instability. The degree of instability can guide management. The three main types of instability presentations are: (1) frank dislocation, (2) subluxations and (3) subclinical instability with pain and clicking. Understanding the exact mechanism of injury can guide diagnosis with classical patterns of structural injuries. The standard clinical examination in a large, muscular athlete may be normal, so specific tests and techniques are needed to unearth signs of pathology. Taking these factors into consideration, along with the imaging, allows a treatment strategy. However, patient and sport factors need to be also considered, particularly the time of the season and stage of sporting career. Surgery to repair the structural damage should include all lesions found. In chronic, recurrent dislocations with major structural lesions, reconstruction procedures such as the Latarjet procedure yields better outcomes. Rehabilitation should be safe, goal-driven and athlete-specific. Return to sport is dependent on a number of factors, driven by the healing process, sport requirements and extrinsic pressures. Level of evidence V.

Predictors for Surgery in Shoulder Instability: A Retrospective Cohort Study Using the FEDS System

BACKGROUND

Shoulder instability is a common cause of pain and dysfunction in young, active patients. While studies have analyzed risk factors for recurrent instability and failure after instability surgery, few have examined which variables are associated with initial surgery in this patient population.

PURPOSE

To identify variables that may be associated with surgical intervention in patients with shoulder instability in the context of the FEDS (frequency, etiology, direction, severity) classification, a system that may be useful in the surgical treatment of shoulder instability patients.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study (prognosis); Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

A database of patients treated for shoulder instability from 3 separate institutions from 2005 to 2010 was generated using International Classification of Diseases-9th Revision data. Data were collected via retrospective review. Injury data were categorized according to the FEDS system. Data were analyzed for significance, with the primary outcome of surgical intervention. Summary statistics were used to assess which variables were associated with eventual surgery. To test the unadjusted bivariate associations between shoulder surgery and each data point, Pearson chi-square tests were used for categorical variables and Wilcoxon tests were used for continuous variables.

RESULTS

Over the study time period, 377 patients were treated for shoulder instability. Patients who had surgery were more likely younger, had recurrent instability, and had their initial injury while playing a sport. Most patients had anterior instability; however, there was a greater proportion of posterior instability patients in the operative group. Severity of dislocation, measured by whether the patient required help to relocate the shoulder, was not significantly associated with eventual surgery. While imaging was not available for all patients, surgical patients were more likely to have magnetic resonance imaging findings of anterior labral injury and less likely to have a supraspinatus or subscapularis tear.

CONCLUSION

Patients who underwent surgery for shoulder instability were younger, more likely to have experienced recurrent instability, and more likely to have sustained their original injury while playing sports. The FEDS classification, particularly the frequency and etiology of the patient's shoulder instability, may be helpful in identifying patients with a higher likelihood of undergoing surgical treatment.

Sporting Activity After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair for Chronic Glenohumeral Instability

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to collect detailed data on postoperative sporting activity after arthroscopic Bankart repair for chronic shoulder instability.

METHODS

Of 113 patients who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair between February 2008 and August 2010, 81 met the inclusion criteria and were surveyed by a specially designed postal sport-specific questionnaire. Of these 81 patients, 66 (82%) were available for evaluation.

RESULTS

All previously active patients performed some activity at follow-up. Of 9 patients (56%) who had been inactive, 5 took up new activities postoperatively. Forty-four patients (66%) stated that surgery had (strongly) improved their sporting proficiency. Seventeen patients (26%) reported no impact, and 5 patients (8%) reported a further deterioration compared with preoperatively. The improvement in sporting proficiency was negatively correlated with the preoperative risk level (ρ = 0.42, P < .001), preoperative performance level (ρ = 0.31, P = .012), and preoperative Tegner scale (ρ = 0.36, P = .003), as well as hours of sporting activity per week (ρ = 0.25, P = .042), whereas age showed a positive correlation (ρ = 0.28, P = .023). There was no change in duration, frequency, number of disciplines, Tegner activity scale, risk category, or performance level.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic Bankart repair provides a high rate of return to activity among patients treated for chronic shoulder instability. A number of previously inactive patients returned to activity postoperatively. However, one-third of patients reported no benefit from surgery in terms of sporting activity. The improvement in sporting proficiency was highly dependent on the demands on the shoulder in sports, as well as the age of the patient. Overall, there was no significant increase in duration, frequency, number of disciplines, Tegner activity scale, or performance level between preoperative and follow-up evaluation and no increased return to high-risk activities.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

The epidemiology of primary anterior shoulder dislocations in patients aged 10 to 16 years

BACKGROUND

Clinical studies of shoulder dislocations typically include adult patients (>16 years of age). Only small case series of patients aged 10 to 16 years are available to guide management.

PURPOSE

Using a cohort of patients aged 10 to 16 years, this study sought to determine (1) the incidence density rate (IDR) of primary anterior shoulder dislocations requiring closed reduction (CR) and (2) the rate of and risk factors for repeat shoulder CR.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study (prognosis); Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

With use of administrative databases, patients aged 10 to 16 years who underwent CR of a primary anterior shoulder dislocation in Ontario, Canada, between April 2002 and September 2010 were gathered. IDRs for the entire cohort and demographic subgroups were calculated. The main outcome, repeat shoulder CR, was sought until September 2012. The cumulative incidence of repeat CR was calculated at multiple time points for the entire cohort and age subgroups. A competing risk model identified risk factors for repeat CR (reported as hazard ratios [HRs] with 95% CIs).

RESULTS

There were 1937 patients aged 10 to 16 years who underwent primary CR (median age, 15.0 years; 79.7% male). The incidence of primary CR was highest among male patients aged 16 years (164.4 per 100,000 person-years), but primary dislocations were rare in 10- to 12-year-old children (n = 115; 5.9% of all dislocations). Repeat CR was observed in 740 patients (38.2%) after a median of 0.8 years; however, the rate of repeat CR was age dependent: it was highest among 14- to 16-year-old patients (37.2%-42.3%) and considerably lower among 10- to 13-year-old patients (0%-25.0%). Male sex (HR, 1.2 [95% CI, 1.0-1.5]; P = .04) and older patient age (HR, 1.2 [95% CI, 1.1-1.3]; P < .001) significantly increased the odds of repeat CR.

CONCLUSION

Among 14- to 16-year-old patients, the rate of primary and recurrent shoulder CR mirrors that of high-risk adults (17-20 years of age) from previously published data; however, the rate of shoulder CR (primary or recurrent) is considerably lower among 10- to 13-year-olds. In addition to older patient age, male sex increased the odds of repeat shoulder CR. Going forward, clinicians should counsel male patients and those aged 14 to 16 years regarding their increased risk of recurrence after the nonoperative management of a primary anterior shoulder dislocation.

Arthroscopic Suture Anchor Fixation of Bony Bankart Lesions: Clinical Outcome, Magnetic Resonance Imaging Results, and Return to Sports

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome, return to sporting activity, and postoperative articular cartilage and bony morphology of shoulders that underwent arthroscopic suture anchor repair of bony Bankart lesions.

METHODS

The inclusion criteria for this retrospective study were anterior glenoid rim fractures after traumatic shoulder instability that were treated with arthroscopic suture anchor repair. Patients were surveyed by a questionnaire including sport-specific outcome, Rowe score, Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index, and Oxford Instability Score. Three-tesla magnetic resonance imaging could be performed in 30 patients to assess osseous integration, glenoid reconstruction, and signs of osteoarthritis.

RESULTS

From November 1999 to April 2010, 81 patients underwent an anterior bony Bankart repair in our department (50 arthroscopic suture anchor repairs, 5 arthroscopic screw fixations, and 26 open repairs). The 55 arthroscopic repairs comprised a consecutive cohort of patients treated by a single surgeon. Of the 50 patients in the suture anchor group, 45 (90%) were available for evaluation. At 82 ± 31 months postoperatively, the mean Rowe score was 85.9 ± 20.5 points, the mean Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index score was 89.4% ± 14.7%, and the mean Oxford Instability Score was 13.6 ± 5.4 points. Compared with the contralateral shoulder, all scores showed a significantly reduced outcome (P < .001, P < .001, and P < .001, respectively). A redislocation occurred in 3 patients (6.6%). Regarding satisfaction, 35 patients (78%) were very satisfied, 9 (20%) were satisfied, and 1 was partly satisfied. Overall, 95% of patients returned to any sporting activity after surgery. The number of sports disciplines (P < .001), duration (P = .005), level (P = .02), and risk category (P = .013) showed a significant reduction compared with the pretrauma condition. However, only 19% of patients reported that shoulder complaints were the reason for the reduction in activity. Nonunion occurred in 16.6%, with a higher frequency in patients with chronic lesions (P = .031). Anatomic reduction was achieved in 72%, the medial step-off in patients with nonanatomic reduction averaged 1.8 ± 0.9 mm, and the remaining glenoid defect size averaged 6.8% ± 7.3%. Full-thickness cartilage defects of the anterior glenoid were detected in 70% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic suture anchor repair may enable an anatomic reduction of bony Bankart lesions with no or only minimal articular steps and provides successful midterm outcomes concerning clinical scores, recurrence, and patient satisfaction. The return to activity is limited for various, mostly non-shoulder-related causes. Chronic lesions may have an inferior healing potential; therefore early surgical stabilization of acute Bankart fragments is suggested to avoid possible nonunion.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Prevalence of and Risk Factors for Dislocation Arthropathy: Radiological Long-term Outcome of Arthroscopic Bankart Repair in 100 Shoulders at an Average 13-Year Follow-up

BACKGROUND

Glenohumeral osteoarthritis is a well-documented, long-term complication of open stabilization procedures. However, there is a lack of knowledge about long-term radiographic outcome after arthroscopic Bankart procedures.

HYPOTHESIS

Glenohumeral osteoarthritis will develop less frequently in arthroscopic Bankart repair compared with open repairs reported in the literature.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

The inclusion criteria for this study were (1) all-arthroscopic Bankart repair for a (2) symptomatic anteroinferior shoulder instability and (3) a minimum follow-up of 10 years. True anteroposterior and lateral radiographs were obtained to evaluate the prevalence and grade of osteoarthritis according to the Samilson classification. Patients were assessed by the Constant score and examined for passive external rotation deficits.

RESULTS

Of 165 shoulders that fulfilled the inclusion criteria, 100 were available for evaluation. The median Constant score at an average±SD 156.2±18.5 months after Bankart repair was 94 (range, 46-100). Twenty-one shoulders (21%) sustained a recurrent dislocation. Overall, 31% of shoulders showed no evidence of glenohumeral osteoarthritis; 41% showed mild, 16% moderate, and 12% severe degenerative changes. Osteoarthritis did not correlate with Constant score results (P=.427). The grade of osteoarthritis was significantly associated with the number of preoperative dislocations (P=.016), age at initial dislocation (P=.005) and at surgery (P=.002), and the number of anchors used (P=.001), whereas time from initial dislocation to surgery (P=.854) and external rotation deficit at 0° and 90° of abduction (P=.104 and .348, respectively) showed no significant correlation. Recurrent dislocation did not affect the presence or grade of osteoarthritis (P=.796 and .665, respectively).

CONCLUSION

At an average 13 years after arthroscopic Bankart repair, osteoarthritic changes are a common finding and, overall, are comparable with reports in the literature regarding open procedures as well as nonoperative treatment. The extent of trauma sustained during preoperative dislocations and the age of the patient seem to be more relevant for long-term dislocation arthropathy than the kind of treatment. Accordingly, the study hypothesis must be rejected. Avoiding preoperative dislocations is more important for the prevention of osteoarthritis than short-term treatment. The number of anchors used was found to be a predictor for long-term development of osteoarthritis.

Risk factors which predispose first-time traumatic anterior shoulder dislocations to recurrent instability in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Recurrent instability following a first-time anterior traumatic shoulder dislocation may exceed 26%. We systematically reviewed risk factors which predispose this population to events of recurrence.

METHODS

A systematic review of studies published before 1 July 2014. Risk factors which predispose recurrence following a first-time traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation were documented and rates of recurrence were compared. Pooled ORs were analysed using random-effects meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Ten studies comprising 1324 participants met the criteria for inclusion. Recurrent instability following a first-time traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation was 39%. Increased risk of recurrent instability was reported in people aged 40 years and under (OR=13.46), in men (OR=3.18) and in people with hyperlaxity (OR=2.68). Decreased risk of recurrent instability was reported in people with a greater tuberosity fracture (OR=0.13). The rate of recurrent instability decreased as time from the initial dislocation increased. Other factors such as a bony Bankart lesion, nerve palsy and occupation influenced rates of recurrent instability.

CONCLUSIONS

Sex, age at initial dislocation, time from initial dislocation, hyperlaxity and greater tuberosity fractures were key risk factors in at least two good quality cohort studies resulting in strong evidence as concluded in the GRADE criteria. Although bony Bankart lesions, Hill Sachs lesions, occupation, physiotherapy treatment and nerve palsy were risk factors for recurrent instability, the evidence was weak using the GRADE criteria-these findings relied on poorer quality studies or were inconsistent among studies.