The biomechanical effect of shoulder remplissage combined with Bankart repair for the treatment of engaging Hill-Sachs lesions

Understanding the Remplissage: History, Biomechanics, Outcomes, and Current Indications

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Arthroscopic remplissage has continued to gain popularity as an adjunct to Bankart repair for patients with anterior shoulder instability. Although the original remplissage technique was described over 15 years ago, our understanding of when and how to use this procedure continues to evolve. This article provides a review of how remplissage affects shoulder biomechanics, compares clinical outcomes between remplissage and other procedures for shoulder instability, and discusses current indications for remplissage.

RECENT FINDINGS

Current research focuses on the use of remplissage across a wide range of glenoid bone loss. Remplissage appears effective at preventing recurrent instability in patients with glenoid bone loss up to 15% of the glenoid width. However, once glenoid bone exceeds 15%, outcomes tend to favor bony reconstruction procedures such as Latarjet. Results of biomechanical studies examining shoulder range of motion (ROM) after remplissage are mixed, though clinical studies tend to report no significant limitations in ROM when remplissage is added to a Bankart repair. Adding a remplissage to conventional Bankart repair may improve clinical outcomes and lower rates of recurrent instability without significantly altering shoulder ROM. However, surgeons should recognize its limitations in treating patients with large amounts of glenoid bone loss and should be prepared to discuss alternative procedures on a case-by-case basis. Absolute indications and contraindications for remplissage are not well defined currently and require further scientific research.

Glenoid bone loss and Hill-Sachs width percentage score are useful to select optimal operation for the treatment of glenohumeral instability in overhead athletes: Arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage versus open Latarjet

PURPOSE

Glenohumeral instability with combined bone lesion in contact and overhead athletes with subcritical bone loss is challenging to treat with high recurrent instability. Treatment options are arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage and Latarjet operations. However, there is no consensus on their effectiveness. This study aims to compare the clinical outcomes and return to sports after both operations and whether evaluating the glenoid bone loss and Hill-Sachs width to calculate the total bone loss can help determine the appropriate operation.

METHODS

In this retrospective comparative analysis, 30 athletes who underwent index arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage (n = 16) or Latarjet procedure (n = 14) between 2017 and 2020 were included. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were routinely performed. The quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (qDASH), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), instability severity index (ISI) scores and range of motion (ROM) were recorded preoperatively and at a mean follow-up of 53 months (SD = 12). Follow-up included time-to-return sports, self-perceived sports performance level and complications/recurrent dislocations.

RESULTS

Preoperative qDASH, ASES, ISI scores, ages and genders were similar. The Latarjet group had significantly larger glenoid bone loss, Hill-Sachs width and total bone loss (p < 0.01). Both groups had significant improvement in patient-reported outcomes (PROs) after the operations (p < 0.01). Athletes with a total bone loss <25% underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage and total bone loss ≥25% underwent Latarjet procedure, and there were no differences between the groups in terms of postoperative PROs, ROM, time-to-return sports and performance. There were no re-dislocations.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage or Latarjet procedure can adequately address glenohumeral instability with combined bone lesions. Patients with total bone loss scores greater than or equal to 25 may particularly benefit from the Latarjet procedure, while the minimally invasive arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage can yield equally satisfying scores for total bone loss less than 25.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Remplissage May Decrease the Redislocation Rate After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair in Patients With an Engaging Hill-Sachs Defect: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Studies With Minimal 2-Year Follow-up

BACKGROUND

The redislocation rate after arthroscopic Bankart repair (BR) among patients with a Hill-Sachs lesion (HSL) may be reduced with the use of remplissage.

PURPOSE

To investigate the outcomes of adding remplissage to an arthroscopic BR in patients with concomitant HSL.

STUDY DESIGN

Meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

PubMed and ScienceDirect databases were searched between February 2022 and April 2023 with the terms "remplissage" and "shoulder instability" according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The inclusion criteria were formed using the population, intervention, control, and outcome method; the investigation included studies that compared BR with and without remplissage and had ≥24 months of follow-up.

RESULTS

From 802 articles found during the initial search, 7 studies with a total of 837 patients-558 receiving isolated BR (BR group) and 279 receiving BR with remplissage (BR+REMP)-were included. The probability of recurrence of instability among patients with an engaging HSL was significantly diminished in the BR+REMP group compared with the BR group (odds ratio, 0.11; 95% CI, 0.05 to 0.24; P < .001). Regarding shoulder range of motion, the BR+REMP group achieved increased forward flexion (mean difference [MD], 1.97°; 95% CI, 1.49° to 2.46°; P < .001) and decreased external rotation in adduction (MD, -1.43°; 95% CI, -2.40° to -0.46°; P = .004) compared with the BR group. Regarding patient-reported outcome measures, the BR+REMP group had Rowe (MD, 2.53; 95% CI, -1.48 to 6.54; P = .21) and Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) (MD, -61.60; 95% CI, -148.03 to 24.82; P = .162) scores that were comparable with those of the BR group.

CONCLUSION

Remplissage resulted in a 9-fold decrease in the recurrence of instability after arthroscopic BR in patients with HSL. Remplissage not only led to an increase in forward flexion but also only slightly limited patients' external rotation in adduction. WOSI and Rowe scores after remplissage at the final 24-month follow-up were comparable with those obtained after isolated Bankart repair.

Stabilizing Mechanisms in Patients Treated Using Hill-Sachs Remplissage With Bankart Repair in Abduction-External Rotation Position

BACKGROUND

Hill-Sachs lesion (HSL) remplissage with Bankart repair (RMBR) provides a minimally invasive solution for treating HSLs and glenoid bone defects of <25%. The infraspinatus tendon is inserted into the HSL during the remplissage process, causing the infraspinatus to shift medially, leading to an unknown effect on glenohumeral alignment during the resting abduction-external rotation (ABER) and muscle-active states.

PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the possible check-rein effect and muscle-active control in stabilizing the glenohumeral joint after RMBR in vivo. We hypothesized that the check-rein effect and active control would stabilize the glenohumeral joint in the ABER position in patients after RMBR.

STUDY DESIGN

Controlled laboratory study.

METHODS

We included 42 participants-22 patients in group A who met the inclusion criteria after RMBR and 20 healthy participants in group B without shoulder laxity. Three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging was performed to analyze the alignment relationship of the glenohumeral joint with and without muscular activity. Ultrasonic shear wave elastography was used to evaluate the elastic properties of the anterior capsule covered with the anterior bands of the inferior glenohumeral ligament.

RESULTS

Patients who underwent RMBR demonstrated more posterior (-1.81 ± 1.19 mm vs -0.76 ± 1.25 mm; P = .008) and inferior (-1.05 ± 0.62 mm vs -0.45 ± 0.48 mm; P = .001) shifts of the humeral head rotation center and less anterior capsular elasticity (70.07 ± 22.60 kPa vs 84.01 ± 14.08 kPa; P = .023) than healthy participants in the resting ABER state. More posterior (-3.17 ± 0.84 mm vs -1.81 ± 1.19 mm; P < .001) and less-inferior (-0.34 ± 0.56 mm vs -1.05 ± 0.62 mm; P < .001) shifts of the humeral head rotation center and less anterior capsular elasticity (36.57 ± 13.89 kPa vs 70.07 ± 22.60 kPa; P < .001) were observed in the operative shoulder during muscle-active ABER than in resting ABER states.

CONCLUSION

The check-rein effect and muscle-active control act as stabilizing mechanisms in RMBR during the ABER position.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Stabilizing mechanisms in RMBR during the ABER position include the check-rein effect and muscle-active control.

Biomechanical Analysis Reveals Shoulder Instability With Bipolar Bone Loss Is Best Treated With Dynamic Anterior Stabilization for On-Track Lesions and with Remplissage for Off-Track Lesions

PURPOSE

To compare the biomechanical effects of augmenting Bankart repair (BR) with either remplissage or dynamic anterior stabilization (DAS) in the treatment of anterior shoulder instability with on-track or off-track bipolar bone loss.

METHODS

Eight fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders were tested at 60° of glenohumeral abduction in the intact, injury, and repair conditions. Injury conditions included 15% glenoid bone loss with an on-track or off-track Hill-Sachs lesion as previously recommended. Repair conditions included isolated BR, BR with remplissage, and BR with DAS (long head of biceps transfer). The glenohumeral stability was assessed by measuring the anterior translation under 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 N load and maximum load without causing instability at mid-range (60°) and end-range (90°) external rotation (ER). Maximum range of motion (ROM) was measured by applying a 2.2-N·m torque in passive ER and internal rotation.

RESULTS

Isolated BR failed to restore native glenohumeral stability in both on-track and off-track bipolar bone loss models. Both remplissage and DAS significantly decreased the anterior instability in the bipolar bone loss models, showing better restoration than the isolated BR. In the on-track lesions, DAS successfully restored native glenohumeral stability and mobility, whereas remplissage significantly decreased anterior translation without load (-2.12 ± 1.07 mm at 90° ER, P = .003; -1.98 ± 1.23 mm at 60° ER, P = .015). In the off-track lesions, remplissage restored native glenohumeral stability but led to significant ROM limitation (-8.6° ± 2.3° for internal rotation, P < .001; -13.9° ± 6.2° for ER, P = .003), whereas DAS failed to restore native stability at 90° ER regarding the increased anterior translation under 50 N (4.10 ± 1.53 mm, P < .001) and decreased maximum load (-13.8 ± 9.2 N, P = .021).

CONCLUSIONS

At time-zero, both remplissage and DAS significantly reduced residual anterior instability compared with isolated BR in the bipolar bone loss models and restored the native glenohumeral stability under most translational loads. However, remplissage could decrease the anterior translation without load for on-track lesions and may restrict ROM for off-track lesions, whereas DAS failed to restore native stability under high translational loads for off-track lesions.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

DAS could be recommended to treat on-track bipolar bone loss with less biomechanical adverse effects, whereas remplissage might be the preferred procedure to address off-track bipolar bone loss for better stability.

Bankart repair with remplissage vs. Latarjet procedure on recurrence, postoperative pain scores, external rotation, and Rowe score in patients with a Hill-Sachs lesion. A systematic review

Background

Currently, recurrent anterior shoulder instability in patients with a Hill-Sachs lesion managed using the Bankart repair showed higher recurrent instability compared with the Latarjet technique. Addition of posterior capsulodesis with infraspinatus remplissage to the Bankart repair, known as Bankart with remplissage (BR), increases shoulder stability in patients with a Hill-Sachs lesion. BR can potentially match the low recurrence rates of the Latarjet procedure while being less invasive. This systematic review compares the Bankart repair with remplissage and Latarjet procedure on postoperative pain, external rotation range of motion, and recurrent instability in anterior shoulder instability patients with a Hill-Sachs lesion.

Methods

A systematic search of the PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases was performed. Studies comparing BR and Latarjet on recurrent instability and/or visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score in anterior shoulder instability patients with a Hill-Sachs lesion were included. Expert opinion, conference presentations, editorials, abstracts, case reports, and nonclinical studies were excluded. Records were initially screened by title and abstract, during the second screening full text was consulted. Study quality was examined using the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies criteria. Risk ratios were calculated for recurrent instability, and standardized mean difference (Cohen's d) were calculated for VAS pain, external rotation, and Rowe score.

Results

Eight of the 146 studies were included in the analysis. The study population consisted of a total of 845 patients, of whom 450 patients underwent the Latarjet procedure and 395 patients underwent BR. Three studies included revision surgery patients; more revision surgery patients were allocated to the Latarjet group. Risk ratios for recurrent instability varied from 0.45 to 2.41. Effect size varied for VAS pain from -2.28 to 0.04, for external rotation from -1.44 to 1.12, and for Rowe score from -0.67 to 1.37. Limitations of the included studies were differences in baseline demographics and functional outcomes.

Conclusion

Recurrent instability seems equal between BR and Latarjet in patients with a Hill-Sachs lesion depth <10 mm. Latarjet showed superior external rotation than BR. Future research should examine patient demographics optimal for minimizing recurrent instability using BR.

Arthroscopic Bankart Repair With Remplissage as an Alternative to Latarjet for Anterior Glenohumeral Instability With More Than 15% Glenoid Bone Loss

BACKGROUND

Surgical management of anterior shoulder instability continues to evolve. The clinical effectiveness of arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage (REMP) in patients with increasing glenoid bone loss (GBL) has not been thoroughly compared with Latarjet.

PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS

The purpose of this study was to compare 2-year outcomes of REMP versus open Latarjet in patients with >15% GBL. We hypothesized that there would be no difference.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

A multicenter, retrospective study was performed on a consecutive series of patients who underwent primary REMP or Latarjet by 4 shoulder specialists between August 2013 and December 2019 for >15% GBL. Procedure performance was based on shared decision making between the surgeon and patient. Baseline and 2-year postoperative range of motion (ROM) and the following patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were collected: Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and visual analog scale for pain. Return to sport, satisfaction, complications, recurrence, and revisions were reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 47 patients were available for study, including 22 who underwent REMP and 25 who underwent Latarjet. Baseline demographic characteristics, ROM, and PROs were similar between the groups. Mean preoperative GBL (REMP 25.8% ± 7.8% vs Latarjet 25.1% ± 9.0%; P = .800) and off-track lesions (REMP 59.1% vs Latarjet 44.0%; P = .302) were similar. Postoperative change in external rotation favored Latarjet (10° ± 22° vs -4° ± 13°; P = .017). Postoperative PROs, return to the sports (86.4% vs 87.5%; P = .99), and satisfaction (95.5% vs 95.8%; P = .99) were similar between groups. There were no recurrent dislocations in either group. One infected hematoma was encountered in the Latarjet cohort.

CONCLUSION

At short-term follow-up, the hypothesis was upheld. REMP and Latarjet provided similar outcomes for patients with >15% GBL, although REMP patients experienced slightly decreased external rotation. Although larger series and longer-term follow-ups are required, remplissage may be considered in patients with >15% glenoid bone loss.

Arthroscopic Hill-Sachs Filling Technique Using an Absorbable Interference Screw

We present an arthroscopic technique used to treat traumatic shoulder instability in the patient with a Hill-Sachs lesion, especially an off-track lesion. The incidence of this bony defect is approximately 40% to 90% of all anterior shoulder instability cases-and up to 100% in patients with recurrent anterior instability. Incorrect management of this humeral bone defect can lead to treatment failure, and it is essential to define characteristics such as the lesion's location, depth, width, and orientation. Many arthroscopic and open procedures have been described for the surgical management of the Hill-Sachs lesion. Using arthroscopy for the surgical treatment of shoulder instability offers numerous advantages. We describe an arthroscopic technique that consists of filling the Hill-Sachs lesion with absorbable interference screws made out of an advanced biocomposite material. After repair of the Hill-Sachs lesion, the Bankart lesion is repaired. As these screws are resorbed by bone tissue over several months, the bony anatomy is restored.

Arthroscopic Remplissage for the Treatment of Anterior Shoulder Instability: Current and Evolving Concepts

➢

A Hill-Sachs lesion (HSL) is a compression fracture on the posterolateral humeral head that can increase the risk of recurrent shoulder instability after isolated arthroscopic Bankart repair.

➢

Remplissage involves capsulotenodesis of the infraspinatus tendon and posterior capsule into the HSL to prevent its engagement with the glenoid rim through extra-articular conversion and restraint against humeral head anterior translation.

➢

The glenoid track concept can be applied preoperatively and intraoperatively to evaluate risk of recurrence and help direct clinical management options for recurrent shoulder instability.

➢

Recent literature supports expanding indications for remplissage to include patients with on-track HSLs who are at increased risk of recurrence including collision athletes, military personal, and patients with joint hyperlaxity.

➢

New techniques and suture constructs have demonstrated improved biomechanical strength while avoiding the need to access the subacromial space.

Remplissage Yields Similar 2-Year Outcomes, Fewer Complications, and Low Recurrence Compared to Latarjet Across a Wide Range of Preoperative Glenoid Bone Loss

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to compare functional outcome, return to sport, satisfaction, postoperative recurrence, and complications in patients undergoing primary arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage (ABR) to primary Latarjet.

METHODS

A multicenter retrospective study was performed on patients undergoing primary ABR or open Latarjet between 2013 and 2019 who had a minimum 2-year follow-up. Baseline and two-year range of motion (ROM), patient-reported outcomes (PROs: Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index [WOSI], Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation [SANE], and visual analog scale [VAS] for pain) recurrence, return to sport, satisfaction, and complications were reviewed.

RESULTS

This study included 258 patients, including 70 ABRs and 188 Latarjet procedures. Baseline demographics, ROM, and PROs were similar. Mean preop glenoid bone loss (GBL) (12.3% ± 10.9% vs 7.6% ± 9%; P < .001) and off-track lesions (23% vs 13%; P = .046) were higher in the ABR group, while preoperative GBL range was similar (0-42% vs 0-47%). Changes in the VAS (1.9 vs 0.9; P = .019) and WOSI (1096 vs 805; P < .001) were improved in ABR. The percentage of patients who achieved a minimal clinically important difference was improved in WOSI for ABR and PASS for ABR in SANE, VAS, and WOSI scores. The ABR cohort reported worse changes in external rotation (ER) (-4° vs +19°; P < .001). Return to sport among overhead and contact athletes favored ABR (91.5% vs 72.7%; P = .007). Satisfaction and recurrent dislocation were similar. Surgical complications were observed in 0% of ABR cases, compared to 5.9% in the Latarjet group.

CONCLUSION

Primary ABR resulted in 2-year functional outcomes that were as good or superior to primary Latarjet, with higher return to sport for overhead and contact activities, fewer complications, and comparably low recurrence rates, even despite greater bipolar bone loss in the ABR cohort. However, this comes at the expense of decreased external rotation, which may be considered in individual patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, retrospective comparative study.

Arthroscopy with subscapularis upper one-third tenodesis for treatment of recurrent anterior shoulder instability independent of glenoid bone loss

BACKGROUND

Recurrent anterior shoulder instability is a common traumatic injury, the main clinical manifestation of which is recurrent anteroinferior dislocation of the humeral head. The current follow-up study showed that the effect of arthroscopic Bankart repair is unreliable.

AIM

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of arthroscopy with subscapularis upper one-third tenodesis for treatment of anterior shoulder instability, and to develop a method to further improve anterior stability and reduce the recurrence rate.

METHODS

Between January 2015 and December 2018, male patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability were selected. One hundred and twenty patients had a glenoid defect < 20% and 80 patients had a glenoid defect > 20%. The average age was 25 years (range, 18–45 years). Patients with a glenoid defect < 20% underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair with a subscapularis upper one-third tenodesis. The patients with a glenoid defect > 20% underwent an arthroscopic iliac crest bone autograft with a subscapularis upper one-third tenodesis. All patients were assessed with Rowe and Constant scores.

RESULTS

The average shoulder forward flexion angle was 163.6° ± 8.3° and 171.8° ± 3.6° preoperatively and at the last follow-up evaluation, respectively. The average external rotation angle when abduction was 90° was 68.4° ± 13.6° and 88.5° ± 6.2° preoperatively and at the last follow-up evaluation, respectively. The mean Rowe scores preoperatively and at the last follow-up evaluation were 32.6 ± 3.2 and 95.2 ± 2.2, respectively (P < 0.05). The mean Constant scores preoperatively and at the last follow-up evaluation were 75.4 ± 3.5 and 95.8 ± 3.3, respectively (P < 0.05). No postoperative dislocations were recorded by the end of the follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopy with subscapularis upper one-third tenodesis was effective for treatment of recurrent anterior shoulder instability independent of the size of the glenoid bone defect, enhanced anterior stability of the shoulder, and did not affect postoperative range of motion of the affected limb.

Consideration May Be Given to Lowering the Threshold for the Addition of Remplissage in Patients With Subcritical Glenoid Bone Loss Undergoing Arthroscopic Bankart Repair

Purpose

Treatment for patients with anterior glenohumeral instability with subcritical bone loss is evolving. The purpose of this study was to compare 2-year outcomes of arthroscopic Bankart repair with and without Hill–Sachs remplissage in patients with <15% glenoid bone loss.

Methods

A multicenter retrospective study was performed on a consecutive series of patients who underwent primary isolated arthroscopic Bankart repair (IBR) or arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage (REMP) by 4 shoulder specialists between 2013 and 2019. Range of motion (ROM) and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were collected at baseline and 2 years postoperative: Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and visual analog scale for pain. Recurrence, return to sport, satisfaction, complications, and revisions also were reviewed.

Results

A total of 123 patients were available, including 75 IBR and 48 REMP. Baseline demographics, activity, ROM, and PROs were similar. Mean glenoid bone loss (2.5% vs 6.1%: P < .001) was greater in REMP, although the number of on-track lesions was similar (98.7% vs 93.8%: P = .298). WOSI scores were improved for REMP (196.5 vs 42.7: P = .004), but otherwise no difference in postoperative PROs or ROM. Differences between cohorts did not reach significance in return to sport (73% vs 83%: P = .203), recurrence (9.3% vs 2.1%: P = .148), or revisions (6.8% vs 2.1%: P = .403). For on-track lesions there were 6 recurrences in IBR (6 of 74; 8.1%) and 1 recurrence in REMP (1 of 45; 2.2%).

Conclusions

Despite slightly worse pathology, patients with subcritical bone loss who undergo REMP experience similar short-term postoperative function to isolated IBR. Recurrence, revision, and return to sport favored REMP but this study was underpowered to show statistical significance. Recurrence was common following IBR, despite subcritical glenoid bone loss and primarily on-track lesions, suggesting that REMP can be considered in on-track lesions.

Level of Evidence

III, retrospective comparative study.

[Arthroscopic Pushlock anchor fixation with iliac creast bone autograft in the treatment of recurrent anterior shoulder instability with critical bone defect]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of arthroscopic Pushlock anchor fixation with iliac creast bone autograft in the treatment of recurrent anterior shoulder instability with critical bone defect.

METHODS

The clinical data of 80 patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability with critical bone defect treated by arthroscopic Pushlock anchor fixation with iliac creast bone autograft between January 2016 and January 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were all male; they were 18-45 years old at the surgery, with an average of 25 years old. The disease duration ranged from 3 months to 5 years, with an average of 2 years. The shoulder joint dislocated 3-50 times, with an average of 8 times. X-ray films, MRI, CT scans and three-dimensional reconstruction of the shoulder were performed before operation. The area of the anterior glenoid defect was 25%-45%, with an average of 27.3%. The shoulder mobility (forward flexion and external rotation in abduction at 90°), the Constant-Murley score, and the Rowe score were used to evaluate the shoulder function before operation and at last follow-up.

RESULTS

Patients were followed up 1-3 years, with an average of 2 years. No shoulder dislocation occurred again during follow-up. All partial graft absorption occurred after operation, CT scan showed that the graft absorption ratio was less than 30% at 1 week and 3 months after operation. CT three-dimensional reconstruction at 1 year after operation showed that all grafts had healed to the glenoid. The anterior glenoid bone defect was less than 5% (from 0 to 5%, with an average of 3.2%). At last follow-up, the shoulder mobility (forward flexion and external rotation in abduction at 90°), the Constant-Murley score, and the Rowe score significantly improved when compared with preoperative ones ( P<0.05). The shoulder mobility of external rotation in abduction at 90° of the affected side limited when compared with the healthy side [(6.7±5.1)°].

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic Pushlock anchor fixation with iliac creast bone autograft has a good effectiveness in the treatment of recurrent anterior shoulder instability with critical bone defect. The method is relatively simple and the learning curve is short.

Superior capsule reconstruction using a single 6-mm-thick acellular dermal allograft for massive rotator cuff tears: a biomechanical cadaveric comparison to fascia lata allograft

BACKGROUND

Success of superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) using both fascia lata (FL) and human acellular dermal (ACD) allografts have been reported. One possible explanation for a discrepancy in outcomes may be attributed to graft thickness. SCR with commercially available 3-mm-thick ACD allograft is not biomechanically equivalent to FL. Our hypothesis was that SCR with a single 6-mm-thick ACD allograft will restore the subacromial space distance (SubDist) and peak subacromial contact pressures (PSCPs) to intact shoulder and will be comparable to SCR with an 8-mm FL allograft.

METHODS

Eight cadaveric shoulders were tested in 4 conditions: intact, irreparable supraspinatus tear (SST), SCR FL allograft (8-mm-thick), and SCR single ACD allograft (6-mm-thick). SubDist and PSCP were measured at 0°, 30°, and 60° of glenohumeral abduction in the scapular plane. Parameters were compared using a repeated measures analysis of variance with Tukey post hoc test, and graft dimensions were compared using a Student t test.

RESULTS

SST had decreased SubDist (P < .05) and increased PSCP (P < .05) compared with the intact state. At all angles, the SCR ACD allograft demonstrated increased SubDist compared with the tear condition (P < .001), with no difference between grafts. Furthermore, there was decreased PSCP after both ACD and FL SCR compared with the intact condition, with no difference between grafts at 0° (P = .006, P = .028) and 60° abduction (P = .026, P = .013). Both ACD and FL grafts elongated during testing.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest SCR with a single 6-mm-thick ACD allograft is noninferior to FL regarding SubDist and PSCP while completely restoring the superior stability of the glenohumeral joint compared with the intact state.

Patient Outcomes and Fear of Returning to Sports After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair With Remplissage

Background:

Although Bankart repair with remplissage is commonly performed to treat anterior shoulder instability, there is limited information on specific outcomes or patients’ fears regarding return to sports (RTS).

Purpose:

To study recurrence rates, pain, shoulder function, active range of motion (ROM), RTS rate, and patients’ fears and expectations for RTS after arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage for anterior shoulder instability. We compared these outcomes with those after Bankart repair alone.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study was carried out between 2007 and 2017 among patients who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage (group BR) and Bankart repair alone (group B). At the final follow-up, outcomes including recurrence, pain, shoulder function, active ROM, RTS rate, and fear toward RTS were assessed. The specific outcomes for RTS were evaluated based on 3 levels: return to normal life, RTS at any level (RTSA), and RTS at previous level (RTSP).

Results:

A total of 70 patients were included (29 in group BR and 41 in group B) with a mean 67.2 months of follow-up. Group BR demonstrated a significantly lower recurrence rate than did group B (0 vs 22.0%, respectively; P = .007) as well as higher postoperative Rowe score (92.8 ± 7.1 vs 83.3 ± 16.2, respectively; P = .005). There were no differences between the groups in postoperative visual analog scale for pain score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, Oxford Shoulder Instability Score, or active ROM. The rates of RTSA (100% vs 84.2%; P = .03) and RTSP (77.8% vs 50.0%; P = .02) were higher in group BR than in group B, respectively, and significantly fewer patients in group BR reported fear of RTS (40.7% vs 63.2%; P = .04).

Conclusion:

In this study, recurrence rate, pain, shoulder function, active ROM, and RTS rate were satisfactory after arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage. Patients who underwent this procedure reported less fear toward RTS and higher rates of RTSA and RTSP than did those who undergo Bankart repair alone.

Posterior shoulder dislocation with reverse Hill-Sachs lesion. A technical note and report of two cases

Posterior shoulder dislocation (PSD) with a reverse Hill-Sachs lesion is a rare injury with challenging management. This article is a technical note, describing the combination of both, modified McLaughlin procedure with posterior Bankart repair, for the surgical treatment of traumatic PSD associated with a substantial reverse Hill-Sachs lesion. Two patients with mid-term follow-up are presented. Approaching and repairing both sides of the joint, balance and congruency are restored, the humeral head is centralized in the glenoid and the patient starts early mobilization and rehabilitation safely.

Arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage versus Latarjet procedure for management of engaging Hill-Sachs lesions with subcritical glenoid bone loss in traumatic anterior shoulder instability: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

A large engaging Hill-Sachs lesion (HSL) with subcritical glenoid bone loss (GBL) is approached through either increasing the glenoid arc by the Latarjet procedure or converting the HSL to an extra-articular defect by arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage (BRR). Until now, there has been no evidence-based consensus about which of these 2 most appropriate procedures is the better surgical choice. The purpose of this study was to analyze the current literature comparing results of BRR vs. the Latarjet procedure in the treatment of engaging HSLs with subcritical GBL.

METHODS

A comprehensive review of the PubMed and Cochrane databases was completed for studies that compared the clinical outcomes and complications of BRR vs. the Latarjet procedure with minimum follow-up of 2 years. The outcome measures analyzed included postoperative Rowe score, visual analog scale pain score, postoperative range of motion (ROM), and rates of recurrent instability and other complications.

RESULTS

Overall, 4 articles (level III evidence in 3 and level II in 1) were included from an initial 804 abstracts. The study population consisted of a total of 379 patients, of whom 194 underwent BRR and 185 underwent the Latarjet procedure. There were no unacceptable differences in baseline characteristics between the 2 groups. For the rate of recurrent instability, both groups had comparable risk ratios (RRs) (N = 379; RR, 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.37-1.41). The risk of other complications was significantly increased with the Latarjet procedure (by about 7 times) relative to the the BRR procedure (N = 379; RR, 7.37; 95% CI, 2-27). Both groups had comparable postoperative Rowe scores (n = 190; mean difference [MD], -0.9; 95% CI, -3.45 to 1.7) and visual analog scale pain scores (n = 347; MD, -0.2; 95% CI, -0.6 to 0.2). Moreover, both groups had comparable postoperative external rotation ROM (MD, -1.7°; 95% CI, -9.4° to 6°) and internal rotation ROM (MD, 1.95°; 95% CI, -5.35° to 9.25°). There was substantial heterogeneity in the effect of both procedures on postoperative pain and ROM (external rotation and internal rotation).

CONCLUSION

Both the BRR and Latarjet procedures are effective for the management of engaging HSLs with subcritical GBL and give comparable clinical outcomes. However, given the fewer overall postoperative complications, remplissage may be safer. The results of the included studies were adequately consistent for most analyzed outcomes. However, for the intervention effect on postoperative pain and ROM, there was a small body of evidence, limiting the strength of the reported conclusions.

Shoulder biomechanics in normal and selected pathological conditions

The stability of the glenohumeral joint depends on soft tissue stabilizers, bone morphology and dynamic stabilizers such as the rotator cuff and long head of the biceps tendon. Shoulder stabilization techniques include anatomic procedures such as repair of the labrum or restoration of bone loss, but also non-anatomic options such as remplissage or tendon transfers.

Rotator cuff repair should restore the cuff anatomy, reattach the rotator cable and respect the coracoacromial arch whenever possible. Tendon transfer, superior capsular reconstruction or balloon implantation have been proposed for irreparable lesions.

Shoulder rehabilitation should focus on restoring balanced glenohumeral and scapular force couples in order to avoid an upward migration of the humeral head and secondary cuff impingement. The primary goal of cuff repair is to be as anatomic as possible and to create a biomechanically favourable environment for tendon healing.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2020;5:508-518. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.5.200006

Remplissage With Bankart Repair in Anterior Shoulder Instability: A Systematic Review of the Clinical and Cadaveric Literature

PURPOSE

To compare the clinical and biomechanical results of an arthroscopic Bankart repair alone with an arthroscopic Bankart repair combined with remplissage.

METHODS

A literature search was performed on May 1, 2018, in PubMed and Embase for studies comparing an isolated arthroscopic Bankart repair and an arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach and the Cochrane Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I) checklist. Results regarding failures, biomechanical properties, and shoulder function were extracted.

RESULTS

We included 13 studies (6 clinical and 7 biomechanical studies), and their overall quality was very low to low. In the biomechanical studies, adding a remplissage to the Bankart repair prevented engagement in all cadavers, resulted in more stiffness, and impaired the range of motion. Among clinical studies, all reported lower recurrence rates and most showed better shoulder function after a Bankart repair with remplissage compared with an isolated Bankart repair. The return-to-sport rates were mostly similar, whereas the loss of range of motion was often higher after a Bankart repair with remplissage.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of a remplissage procedure to a Bankart repair for managing small to medium Hill-Sachs lesions might be beneficial in reducing the risk of recurrent instability and improving shoulder function, without increasing the risk of complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, systematic review of Level II and III studies.

Arthroscopic Remplissage for Anterior Shoulder Instability: A Systematic Review of Clinical and Biomechanical Studies

PURPOSE

To examine the clinical outcomes and biomechanical data supporting the use of the remplissage procedure.

METHODS

A query of the Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines from 2000 to 2017. Data were extracted from included studies for a qualitative review of both clinical and biomechanical outcomes.

RESULTS

After review, 18 clinical and 10 biomechanical studies were available for analysis; 10 of 18 clinical studies (55.6%) were Level IV evidence. Within the clinical studies, there were 567 patients (570 shoulders) evaluated with follow-up ranging from 6 to 180 months. Overall, 5.8% of shoulders (33 of 570) displayed recurrent instability after arthroscopic remplissage. Of the shoulders with recurrent instability, 42.4% of shoulders (14 of 33) underwent further surgical management. In all studies evaluating pre- and postoperative patient-reported outcomes, the arthroscopic remplissage procedure improved patient-reported outcomes a statistically significant amount postoperatively. Within individual clinical studies, external rotation with the arm in neutral was the most consistently limited range of motion (ROM) parameter, with deficits compared with the contralateral shoulder ranging from 9° to 14°. Biomechanical analysis appeared to corroborate the clinical results, although significant conclusions were limited by heterogeneity of reporting.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic remplissage performed in conjunction with arthroscopic Bankart repair is a safe and effective procedure for patients with engaging Hill-Sachs lesions and subcritical glenoid bone loss. Although both the included clinical and biomechanical studies would suggest minimal changes in glenohumeral ROM following the remplissage procedure, strong conclusions are limited by the heterogeneity in reporting ROM data and lack of comparative studies.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, systematic review.

Arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage for non-engaging Hill-Sachs lesion in professional collision athletes

BACKGROUND

The present study aimed to determine whether arthroscopic remplissage with Bankart repair is an effective treatment for improving outcomes for collision athletes with Bankart and non-engaging Hill-Sachs lesions.

METHODS

Twenty collision athletes underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair with posterior capsulotenodesis (B&R group) and were evaluated retrospectively, using pre- and postoperative WOSI (Western Ontario Shoulder Instability), EQ-5D (EuroQOL five dimensions), EQ-VAS (EuroQol-visual analogue scale) scores and Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV). The recurrence and re-operation rates were compared to a matched group with isolated arthroscopic Bankart repair (B group).

RESULTS

The mean age was 25 years with an mean follow-up of 26 months. All mean scores improved with SSV of 90%. There was a mean deficit in external rotation at the side of 10°. One patient was treated with hydrodilatation for frozen shoulder. One patient had residual posterior discomfort but no apprehension in the B&R group compared to 5% persistent apprehension in the B group. In comparison, the recurrence and re-operation rates were 5% and 30% (p = 0.015), 5% and 35% (p = 0.005) in the B&R and B groups, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This combined technique demonstrated good outcomes, with lower recurrence rates in high-risk collision athletes. The slight restriction in external rotation does not significantly affect any clinical outcomes and return to play.

Recurrence Rate of Instability After Remplissage for Treatment of Traumatic Anterior Shoulder Instability: A Systematic Review in Treatment of Subcritical Glenoid Bone Loss

PURPOSE

To report outcomes after arthroscopic remplissage in patients with anterior shoulder instability and subcritical glenoid bone loss, specifically regarding recurrence of instability, return to sport, and changes in range of motion.

METHODS

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were used to perform a search using the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus databases. Forest plots were used to evaluate the overall values for recurrent instability, change in external rotation, and return to sport after arthroscopic Bankart repair with or without remplissage. The Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies and Risk of Bias in Nonrandomized Studies-Interventions checklist were used to evaluate bias.

RESULTS

Twenty-two articles met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies and Risk of Bias in Nonrandomized Studies-Interventions checklists deemed studies as acceptable quality with low bias. Among 694 patients (522 male and 106 female patients) undergoing remplissage, the mean age was 28.3 ± 5.3 years and the mean duration of follow-up was 32.5 ± 13.9 months. The recurrence rate of instability ranged from 0% to 20%. The change in external rotation in 90° of abduction ranged from -11.3° to -1.0°, and the change in external rotation with the arm fully adducted ranged from -8.0° to +4.5°. The overall rate of return to sport ranged from 56.9% to 100% after remplissage. The rate of return to sport at the preinjury level ranged from 41.7% to 100%. In addition, arthroscopic remplissage in addition to Bankart repair had a reduced odds of recurrent instability developing, ranging from 0.07 to 0.88, when compared with isolated Bankart repair.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic remplissage combined with Bankart repair is an effective procedure in the treatment of patients with engaging Hill-Sachs lesions and minimal glenoid bone loss. Patients can expect favorable rates of recurrent instability with a negligible loss of external rotation when compared with isolated Bankart repair. Treatment algorithms may be updated to include this procedure for engaging Hill-Sachs lesions, measuring between 20% and 40% in volume, with subcritical (<20%) glenoid bone loss.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, systematic review of Level III and IV studies.

Posterior shoulder dislocation with a reverse Hill-Sachs lesion treated with frozen femoral head bone allograft combined with osteochondral autograft transfer

Management of a posterior shoulder dislocation with an associated reverse Hill-Sachs lesion is challenging, both diagnostically and therapeutically. Diagnosis is frequently delayed or missed, whereas the resulting humeral head defect is often larger and more difficult to salvage than in anterior shoulder dislocations. This report presents the case of a 29-year-old male with a recurrent posterior shoulder dislocation associated with a large reverse Hill-Sachs defect, treated with bone augmentation of the lesion with a combination of fresh femoral head allograft and a locally harvested humeral head autograft transfer, with a successful outcome. Level of evidence V.

Medial Posterior Capsular Plication Reduces Anterior Shoulder Instability Similar to Remplissage Without Restricting Motion in the Setting of an Engaging Hill-Sachs Defect

BACKGROUND

Numerous surgical options for the management of engaging Hill-Sachs lesions exist, of which remplissage has emerged as one of the most popular arthroscopic techniques. Remplissage is not without disadvantages, however, and has been demonstrated to potentially result in a loss of external rotation (ER) due to nonanatomic tethering of the infraspinatus tendon and a potential decrease in infraspinatus strength clinically.

PURPOSE

The efficacy of posterior medial capsular plication in addition to Bankart repair was examined as an arthroscopic management strategy for an engaging Hill-Sachs defect.

STUDY DESIGN

Controlled laboratory study.

METHODS

Eight fresh-frozen human cadaveric shoulders were utilized for the study. After testing baseline translation and motion, 30% Hill-Sachs lesions were created in each specimen. Three experimental groups were assembled: (1) isolated Bankart repair (HSD), (2) Bankart repair with remplissage (RM), and (3) Bankart repair with posterior medial capsular plication (PL). Biomechanical testing was performed to determine anterior translation, range of motion, and Hill-Sachs engagement. Translation and motion measurements were normalized to the baseline laxity values for each specimen.

RESULTS

A significant reduction in anterior translation was noted at 60° of abduction and 60° of ER for both the PL and RM groups compared with the HSD group throughout most of the joint loads tested ( P < .05), but no significant differences were noted between the PL and RM groups at any load. The RM group had significantly less normalized ER at 60° of abduction compared with the HSD and PL groups ( P < .05). There were no differences in internal rotation between the groups. All 8 specimens in the HSD group engaged, while no specimens in the RM and PL groups engaged ( P < .001).

CONCLUSION

In a cadaveric model, medial posterior capsular plication as an adjunct to Bankart repair offers similar resistance to anterior translation and Hill-Sachs engagement as compared with remplissage in the setting of an engaging Hill-Sachs defect. Medial posterior capsular plication results in less restriction of ER compared with remplissage without any significant limitation of internal rotation.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Posterior medial capsular plication reduces translation and engagement similarly to remplissage, without any restriction in motion.

Anterior shoulder instability with engaging Hill-Sachs defects: a comparison of arthroscopic Bankart repair with and without posterior capsulodesis

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical results of isolated arthroscopic Bankart repair and those of arthroscopic Bankart repair with posterior capsulodesis for anterior shoulder instability with engaging Hill-Sachs lesions.

METHODS

Thirty-five shoulders that underwent isolated arthroscopic Bankart repair (Bankart group) and 37 shoulders that underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair with posterior capsulodesis (remplissage group) for anterior shoulder instability with engaging Hill-Sachs lesions were evaluated retrospectively. The mean age at the time of the surgery was 26.1 ± 7.0 years in the Bankart group and 24.8 ± 9.0 years in the remplissage group.

RESULTS

At the final follow-up, the Rowe and UCLA scores significantly improved in both the Bankart and remplissage groups (P < 0.001, in both groups). The post-operative mean deficit in external rotation at the side was 3° ± 10° in the Bankart group and 8° ± 23° in the remplissage group (P = n.s. and P = 0.044, respectively). There was no decrease in muscle strength in either group. The recurrence rate was 25.7 % in the Bankart group and 5.4 % in the remplissage group (P = 0.022).

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic Bankart repair with posterior capsulodesis demonstrated good clinical outcomes with a low recurrence rate in the treatment for anterior shoulder instability with an engaging Hill-Sachs lesion. Although a limitation in external rotation was observed, there was no significant limitation of any other motion and no decrease in muscle strength after the remplissage procedure. Posterior capsulodesis alone for remplissage should be considered as a surgical technique that can replace the conventional method.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Case-control study, Level III.

Accuracy of Suture Passage During Arthroscopic Remplissage-What Anatomic Landmarks Can Improve It?: A Cadaveric Study

Background:

Recent data suggest that inaccurate suture passage during remplissage may contribute to a loss of external rotation, with the potential to cause posterior shoulder pain because of the proximity to the musculotendinous junction.

Purpose:

To evaluate the accuracy of suture passage during remplissage and identify surface landmarks to improve accuracy.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Arthroscopic remplissage was performed on 6 cadaveric shoulder specimens. Two single-loaded suture anchors were used for each remplissage. After suture passage, position was recorded in reference to the posterolateral acromion (PLA), with entry perpendicular to the humeral surface. After these measurements, the location of posterior cuff penetration was identified by careful surgical dissection.

Results:

Twenty-four sutures were passed in 6 specimens: 6 sutures (25.0%) were correctly passed through the infraspinatus tendon, 12 (50%) were through the infraspinatus muscle or musculotendinous junction (MTJ), and 6 (25%) were through the teres minor. Suture passage through the infraspinatus were on average 25 ± 5.4 mm inferior to the PLA, while sutures passing through the teres minor were on average 35.8 ± 5.7 mm inferior to the PLA. There was an odds ratio of 25 (95% CI, 2.1-298.3; P < .001) that the suture would be through the infraspinatus if the passes were less than 3 cm inferior to the PLA. Sutures passing through muscle and the MTJ were significantly more medial than those passing through tendon, measuring on average 8.1 ± 5.1 mm lateral to the PLA compared with 14.5 ± 5.5 mm (P < .02). If suture passes were greater than 1 cm lateral to the PLA, it was significantly more likely to be in tendon (P = .013).

Conclusion:

We found remplissage suture passage was inaccurate, with only 25% of sutures penetrating the infraspinatus tendon. Passing sutures 1 cm lateral and within 3 cm inferior of the PLA improves the odds of successful infraspinatus tenodesis. We recommend this “safe zone” to improve the odds of infraspinatus tenodesis during remplissage. These results may help improve remplissage techniques and prevent previously reported complications, including external rotation loss and pain from myodesis.

Effect of three remplissage techniques on tendon coverage and shoulder kinematics: a navigated robotic biomechanical study

BACKGROUND

In addition to Bankart repair engaging Hill-Sachs defects in glenohumeral instability have been treated successfully with remplissage procedure. The purpose of this study was to compare three remplissage techniques regarding (I) ability of preventing Hill-Sachs defect from engaging, (II) influence on glenohumeral rotational torque, and (III) resulting tendon coverage over the Hill-Sachs defect.

METHODS

Standardized engaging Hill-Sachs defects and Bankart lesions were created in n = 7 fresh frozen human shoulder specimens. Besides Bankart repair three remplissage techniques (T) with double anchor position in the valley of the defect zone were studied: T1, knots tied over anchors; T2, knots tied between anchors (double-pulley); T3, knotless anchors with a suture tape. A parallel position-orientation and force-moment controlled navigated roboticsystem was used to compare prevention of Hill-Sachs defect engagement and torque [Nm]. Pressure sensitive film was used to study area of infraspinatus tendon coverage over Hill-Sachs defect [%].

RESULTS

All remplissage techniques prevented engagement of the Hill-Sachs defect without showing any construct failures. Regarding humeral torque there were significant impairments observed between intact conditions and the three investigated repair techniques in 60° abduction and ≥30° external rotation (p < .04). There was no significant difference in torque between intervention groups (n.s.). With a mean coverage of 26.8 % over the defect zone the knotless suture tape technique (T3) significantly improved area of soft tissue coverage compared to the other techniques (p = .03).

CONCLUSION

All remplissage techniques prevented engagement of the Hill Sachs defect. With high abduction and external rotation ≥30° all techniques showed significant higher humeral torque compared to the intact specimens, while there was not one technique superior over the others. The suture tape technique conferred the largest and most effective area of tendon coverage over the Hill-Sachs defect zone. Long-term success of the remplissage procedure can possibly be enhanced by increasing the interface area of tendon coverage over the Hill-Sachs defect. Clinical studies will be necessary to proof potential benefits for clinical outcome.