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

Single anterior shoulder dislocation patients demonstrate higher rates of posterior labral repair and biceps procedures than multiple dislocators at the time of arthroscopic stabilization surgery

Hypothesis

The purpose of this study is to identify and compare demographic, clinical, historical, and intraoperative variables in patients who have received arthroscopic treatment for single vs. multiple anterior shoulder dislocations.

Methods

This is a retrospective chart review of patients who underwent arthroscopic labral repair of the shoulder by six surgeons at a single institution between 2012 and 2020. Patients with a documented anterior shoulder dislocation were included. Patients with pain-only, subluxation-only, multidirectional or posterior instability, and prior shoulder surgeries of any kind were excluded. Studied variables included age, sex, laterality, body mass index, contact/collision sports, Charlson comorbidity index, tobacco use, number of dislocations (1, >1), labral tear size, time from first dislocation to surgery, anchor number, and concomitant procedures. Study groups were compared using student's t-tests and Mann-Whitney U test for continuous variables and chi-square or Fisher's exact tests for discrete variables with a significance of 0.05.

Results

Six hundred thirty-three patients were identified, and 351 (85 single dislocators [SDs], 266 multiple dislocators [MDs]) met inclusion criteria (mean age: 27 years; range: 14-71 years). There were no demographic differences between the study groups. SD received surgery significantly sooner at 17 ± 44 months after injury, while MD received surgery 53 ± 74 months postinitial dislocation. SDs (30/85, 35%) were significantly more likely than MDs (56/266, 21%) to receive concomitant posterior labrum repair. MDs (46/266, 17%) were significantly more likely than SDs (5/85, 6%) to receive a remplissage. SDs (11/85, 13%) were significantly more likely than MDs (11/266, 4%) to receive a concomitant biceps tenotomy/tenodesis. There were no other significant differences in injury or surgery characteristics.

Conclusion

MDs will have more time between their initial dislocation and arthroscopic labral repair and are more likely to receive a remplissage procedure, yet they are less likely than SDs to receive a concomitant posterior labral repair or biceps tenodesis/tenotomy despite no differences in age, sex, and activity level. Whether the greater extent of labrum injury in SD is due to a more severe initial injury vs. earlier recognition and intervention requires further study.

Higher return to sport and lower revision rates when performing arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage for anterior shoulder instability with a Hill-Sachs lesion: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Recurrent anterior shoulder instability remains the most common complication from a prior shoulder dislocation, especially among young and active individuals who engage in athletic activities. This instability can lead to repeated subluxation or dislocations of the humeral head from the glenoid fossa. The purpose of this study is to compare postoperative recurrence rates, instability-related revision and return to sport (RTS) rates between isolated arthroscopic Bankart repair (ABR) and ABR with remplissage (ABR + R) for anterior shoulder instability with subcritical glenoid bone loss (GBL) and a Hill-Sachs lesion (HSL).

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched on June 2022. Studies sought were those comparing postoperative outcomes of ABR + R versus isolated ABR for subcritical GBL and an HSL. Study quality was evaluated using the revised Cochrane tool. Redislocations, instability-related revisions, and RTS rates were extracted and pooled estimates were calculated using the random-effect model.

RESULTS

Twelve studies were included with a mean follow-up of 48.2 months for isolated ABR and 43.2 months for ABR + R. The meta-analytic comparison demonstrated that ABR + R resulted in statistically significant improvement in Rowe and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores by 6.5 and 2.2 points, respectively; however, the improvements in patient-reported outcomes were not clinically meaningful. ABR + R resulted in reduced external rotation at the side by 1° which was not clinically meaningful and there was no significant difference in terms of forward elevation. ABR + R resulted in a statistically significant reduction of overall postoperative recurrences (odds ratio [OR]: 9.36), postoperative dislocations (OR: 6.28), instability-related revision (OR: 3.46), and RTS to any level (OR: 2.85).

CONCLUSION

The addition of remplissage to ABR for recurrent anterior shoulder instability with subcritical GBL and HSL results in significantly lower postoperative instability recurrence, lower instability-related revisions, and higher RTS to any level.

Arthroscopic Bankart Repair With Remplissage in Anterior Shoulder Instability Results in Fewer Redislocations Than Bankart Repair Alone at Medium-term Follow-up of a Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

A multicenter, double-blinded randomized controlled trial comparing isolated Bankart repair (NO REMP) to Bankart repair with remplissage (REMP) reported benefits of remplissage in reducing recurrent instability at 2 years postoperative. The ongoing benefits beyond this time point are yet to be explored.

PURPOSE

To (1) compare medium-term (3 to 9 years) outcomes of these previously randomized patients undergoing isolated Bankart repair (NO REMP) or Bankart repair with remplissage (REMP) to manage recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability; (2) examine the failure rate, overall recurrent instability, and reoperation rate.

STUDY DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

METHODS

Recruitment and randomization for the original randomized trial occurred between 2011 and 2017. Patients ≥14 years diagnosed with recurrent traumatic anterior shoulder instability with an engaging Hill-Sachs defect of any size were included. Those with a glenoid defect >15% were excluded. In 2020, participants were contacted by telephone and asked standardized questions regarding ensuing instances of subluxation, dislocation, or reoperation on their study shoulder. "Failure" was defined as a redislocation, and "overall recurrent instability" was described as a redislocation or ≥2 subluxations. Descriptive statistics, relative risk, and Kaplan-Meier survival curve analyses were performed.

RESULTS

A total of 108 participants were randomized, of whom 50 in the NO REMP group and 52 in the REMP group were included in the analyses in the original study. The mean number of months from surgery to the final follow-up was 49.3 and 53.8 months for the NO REMP and REMP groups, respectively. Failure rates were 22% (11/50) in the NO REMP group versus 8% (4/52) in the REMP group. Rates of overall recurrent instability were 30% (15/50) in the NO REMP group versus 10% (5/52) in the REMP group. Survival curves were significantly different, favoring REMP in both scenarios.

CONCLUSION

For the treatment of traumatic recurrent anterior shoulder instability with a Hill-Sachs lesion and subcritical glenoid bone loss (<15%), a significantly lower rate of overall postoperative recurrent instability was observed with arthroscopic Bankart repair and remplissage than with isolated Bankart repair at a medium-term follow-up (mean of 4 years). Patients who did not receive a remplissage experienced a failure (redislocated) earlier and had a higher rate of revision/reoperation than those who received a concomitant remplissage.

REGISTRATION

NCT01324531 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

Arthroscopic remplissage: history, indications, and clinical outcomes

Several surgical procedures have been proposed to address anterior glenohumeral instability, which is one of the most common complaints in the general population. The remplissage, first described in early 2000s, is a procedure performed simultaneously with the arthroscopic Bankart repair to correct large, engaging Hill-Sachs lesions (HSLs). This procedure stabilizes the joint by tenodesing the infraspinatus tendon into the HSL to fill and disengage the defect. This procedure gained popularity because it has relatively low risk and is able to improve shoulder stability while being less invasive than other bone-blocking procedures. The remplissage has become a valuable add-on technique that can substantially improve outcomes in unstable patients undergoing arthroscopic Bankart repair. Nevertheless, several studies in the literature have raised concerns regarding its efficacy in critically unstable patients and the potential range of motion limitations that can arise postoperatively. Additional comparative studies and trials should be conducted to appropriately establish the role of remplissage in treating anterior instability, especially in patients with critical bone loss.

Lower Range of Recurrent Instability Rates Following Bankart Repair and Remplissage Compared to Isolated Bankart Repair in Patients With "Nonengaging/On-Track" Hill-Sachs Lesions and <20% Glenoid Bone Loss

PURPOSE

To compare recurrent instability and return-to-sport rates along with external rotation differences between on-track (nonengaging) Hill-Sachs lesion patients undergoing either an isolated Bankart repair (IBR) or a Bankart repair augmented with a remplissage procedure (B+R).

METHODS

A search was conducted using 3 databases (PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL) in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Only clinical comparative (level of evidence I-III) studies were considered for inclusion. Quality assessment was performed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies criteria.

RESULTS

Six level of evidence III studies, totaling 537 patients (202 B+R and 335 IBR) were included for analysis. All patients had <20% glenoid bone loss and a nonengaging, on-track Hill-Sachs lesion. At a median final follow-up of 34.7 months, recurrent dislocation rates ranged from 0% to 7.7% and 3.5% to 30% in the B+R and IBR groups, respectively. Moreover, subjective instability and revision surgery rates presented lower ranges in the B+R upon comparison with the IBR cohort (0%-32% vs 5%-71.4% and 0%-5% vs 0%-35%, respectively). Furthermore, return to preinjury level of sports ranged from 64% to 100% in the remplissage-augmented group and 50% to 90% in the IBR cohort. Postoperative external rotation at side varied from 50° to 63° in the B+R and 55° to 63° in the IBR arm. Additional subgroup analysis revealed recurrent dislocation rates in athletes and patients with near-track Hill-Sachs lesions undergoing remplissage augmentation to be 0% to 5% and 2% to 47% while ranging from 8.8% to 30% and 9% to 66% for IBR patients, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Upon qualitative analysis, ranges of recurrent instability measures, including recurrent dislocation rates, are higher in patients undergoing IBR in comparison to B+R. Activity level influences outcomes as athletes were found to have a higher range of recurrent dislocation rates in the IBR group. The addition of remplissage showed a higher range of return-to-sport rates with comparable postoperative external rotation between groups.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, systematic review of Level III studies.

Arthroscopic Bankart with remplissage results in lower rates of recurrent instability with similar range of motion compared to isolated arthroscopic Bankart for anterior glenohumeral instability: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

The addition of the remplissage procedure to an arthroscopic Bankart procedure has been shown to improve clinical outcomes, yet at the expense of potentially decreasing shoulder range of motion. The purpose of this study was to assess recurrent instability, range of motion, functional outcomes and rates of return to sport outcomes in patients undergoing an isolated arthroscopic Bankart repair compared to those undergoing arthroscopic Bankart repair in addition to the remplissage procedure.

METHODS

According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a search was conducted using three databases (MEDLINE/OVID, EMBASE and PubMed). Retrieved studies were screened based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria for comparative studies. Data were extracted and meta-analysis performed using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

A total of 16 studies (13 level III studies, 2 level II studies and 1 level I) were included with a total of 507 and 704 patients in the Bankart plus remplissage and isolated Bankart repair groups, respectively. No studies reported glenoid bone loss of >20% with the least percentage of glenoid bone loss reported among studies being <1%. There was a significantly increased rate of recurrent dislocations (odds ratio [OR] = 4.22, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.380-7.48, p < 0.00001) and revision procedures (OR = 3.36, 95% CI: 1.52-7.41, p = 0.003) in the isolated Bankart repair group compared to the Bankart plus remplissage group. Additionally, there were no significant differences between groups in terms of external rotation at side (n.s.), in abduction (n.s.) or at forward flexion (n.s.) at final follow-up. Furthermore, return to preinjury level of sport favoured the Bankart plus remplissage group (OR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.35-0.85, p = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing arthroscopic Bankart plus remplissage for anterior shoulder instability have lower rates of recurrent instability, higher rates of return to sport, and no significant difference in range of motion at final follow-up when compared to an isolated arthroscopic Bankart repair. Further large, prospective studies are needed to further determine which patients and degree of bone loss would benefit most from augmentation with the remplissage procedure.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Remplissage reduced sense of apprehension and increased the rate of return to sports at preinjury level of elite overhead athletes with on-track anterior shoulder instability

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to compare the results of arthroscopic isolated Bankart repair (B) with Bankart repair plus Remplissage (B + R) procedure in contact overhead athletes with on-track anterior shoulder instability.

METHODS

A total of 64 athletes playing basketball, volleyball and handball in elite professional level who underwent arthroscopic isolated Bankart repair (34 patients) or Bankart repair plus Remplissage procedure (30 patients) with the diagnosis of recurrent anterior shoulder instability between 2017 and 2020, were retrospectively reviewed. Radiologically all patients had on-track Hill-Sachs defects and minimal or subcritical glenoid bone loss (< 13.5%). Patients were evaluated using pre- and postoperative pVAS, SANE, ASES, ROWE, WOSI scores and postoperative active ROM assessment. Patients were also asked for the frequency of any subjective apprehension and satisfaction with the surgery in four grades.

RESULTS

The mean ages of the groups B and B + R were 26.8 and 26 years (SD = 3.22), respectively; the mean follow-up times were 37.8 and 36.2 months (SD = 11.19). Compared with the preoperative status, there was a statistically significant improvement of all 5 postoperative outcome scores in both groups (P < 0.001). However, significant difference between the improvement of the groups were only found for the SANE (B: 22.3 ± 4.1, B + R: 26.3 ± 4.3; P = 0.0004), ASES (B: 26.1 ± 2.6, B + R: 30.2 ± 3.6; P < 0.001) and ROWE (B: 42 ± 3.7, B + R: 47.7 ± 2.8; P < 0.001) scores in favor of the group B + R. The loss of internal and external rotation of the adducted arm in group B + R was found to be approximately 5 degrees compared to the group B (P < 0.001). More than 80% of group B + R showed no apprehension in sports activities and almost completely returned to pre-injury athletic level, depicting statistically significant improvement compared to group B athletes (P = 0.002 and 0.036, respectively). 3 patients developed re-dislocation after isolated Bankart repair, whereas no re-dislocation occurred in the B + R group.

CONCLUSION

Adding Remplissage procedure to the Bankart repair provided an advantage in terms of both return to sport at preinjury level and the frequency of apprehension sensation during sports activity.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Post-operative rehabilitation following traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation: A systematic scoping review

Background

This systematic scoping review aimed to describe the content of post-operative rehabilitation programmes, and outcome measures selection following stabilisation surgery for traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation (TASD).

Methods

An electronic search of Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL and AMED was conducted (2000-2021). Any cohort or clinical trial of patients receiving post-operative TASD rehabilitation were included. Study selection, data extraction and quality appraisal were undertaken by two independent reviewers.

Results

Twelve studies including fourteen treatment programmes were eligible. Period of post-operative immobilisation ranged from 1 day to 6 weeks, with exercise introduced between 1 and 7 weeks. Strengthening exercises were introduced between 1 and 12 weeks. Two studies described "accelerated" rehabilitation programmes, differing in immobilisation period and exercise milestones. No increased recurrence was reported in professional footballers. Two studies compared rehabilitation programmes, one not randomised, the other 18 years old. There was variability in selected outcomes measures, with only 4 studies using a common measure.

Discussion

There is minimal evidence to guide post-operative rehabilitation, variability in immobilisation periods and when exercise is introduced. There is no consensus on the definition of accelerated rehabilitation, or outcome measure selection. Clinical consensus of standardised terminology and stages of rehabilitation is required prior to efficacy studies.

The Triple-Double Technique of Arthroscopic Hill-Sachs Remplissage

Surgeons are increasingly treating Hill-Sachs lesions arthroscopically by suturing the posterior rotator cuff and capsule into the defect, a procedure known as "remplissage." A number of remplissage techniques have been described in the literature, and these often vary by the number and location of suture anchors. The "triple-double" technique of arthroscopic Hill-Sachs remplissage can be used for larger lesions. This technique utilizes a three-anchor configuration secured by interconnected double-mattress sutures to provide durable fixation through a large contact area between the capsulotenodesis tissue and the prepared bone bed to theoretically optimize healing.

Cyst formation and bony ingrowth inside coil-type open-architecture anchors used for arthroscopic remplissage: a volumetric computed tomographic study of 50 anchors

BACKGROUND

The use of anchors in the proximal humerus during arthroscopic surgery can cause localized bone loss due to osteolysis and cyst formation. The purpose of this study was to use computed tomography (CT) to evaluate the incidence of implant-related bone loss and cyst formation after implantation of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) coil-type open-architecture anchors during remplissage for the management of Hill-Sachs defects (HSDs) in patients with shoulder instability.

METHODS

This was a single-cohort, observational study with a minimum of 12 months of follow-up. Subjects undergoing arthroscopic instability surgery with HSD requiring remplissage were included. The volume of the bone defects and the degree of bony ingrowth into the anchor were measured on CT images.

RESULTS

Thirty-one participants (28 males, 3 females; mean age 29.4 years, standard deviation [SD] 10.6) in whom 50 anchors (4.5-mm Healicoil PEEK double-loaded anchors) were used were evaluated with a CT performed at a mean of 14.1 (SD 3.74) months after surgery. Full bony ingrowth inside the anchor was found in 15 anchors (30%, range 17.8%-44.5%); clear ossification with a thin lucent rim was found in 10 anchors (20%, range 10.0%-33.7%); discontinuous ossification was found in 8 anchors (16%, range 7.2%-29.1%); and no ossification was observed inside 17 anchors (34%, range 21.2%-48.7%). Regarding bone defect size, no bone defect was identified in 15 anchors (30%, 95% CI 17.9%-44.6%), a partial bone defect was found in 17 anchors (34%, 95% CI 21.2%-48.7%), hole enlargement was found in 17 anchors (34%, 95% CI 21.2%-48.7%), and 1 anchor caused a cyst larger than twice the size of the hole made for anchor insertion (2%, 95% CI 0.1%-8.6%). At the 1-year evaluation, none of the participants presented recurrence or residual apprehension.

CONCLUSION

The use of PEEK coil-type open-architecture anchors for remplissage during instability surgery caused large cystic lesions in less than 10% of anchors. There was full bony ingrowth in one-third of anchors, and partial cancellous bone ingrowth occurred in another third of anchors.

Bankart Repair With or Without Concomitant Remplissage Results in Similar Shoulder Motion and Postoperative Outcomes in the Treatment of Shoulder Instability

Purpose

To compare the results of patients who underwent Bankart repair with or without concomitant remplissage for treatment of shoulder instability.

Methods

All patients who underwent shoulder stabilization for shoulder instability from 2014 to 2019 were evaluated. Patients who underwent remplissage were matched to those patients who received no remplissage based on sex, age, body mass index, and date of surgery. Glenoid bone loss and presence of an engaging Hill-Sachs lesion were quantified by 2 independent investigators. Postoperative complications, recurrent instability, revision, shoulder range of motion (ROM), return to sport (RTS), and patient-reported outcome measures (Oxford Shoulder Instability, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores) were compared between groups.

Results

Overall, 31 patients who underwent remplissage were identified and matched to 31 patients who received no remplissage at a mean follow-up of 2.8 ± 1.8 years. Glenoid bone loss was similar between groups (11% vs 11%, P = .956); however, engaging Hill-Sachs lesions were more prevalent in the patients who underwent remplissage than the patients who received no remplissage (84% vs 3%, P < .001). There were no significant differences in rates of redislocation (remplissage: 12.9% vs no remplissage: 9.7%), subjective instability (45.2% vs 25.8%), reoperation (12.9% vs 0%), or revision (12.9% vs 0%) between groups (all P > .05). Also, there were no differences in RTS rates, shoulder range of motion, or patient-reported outcome measures (all P > .05).

Conclusions

If a patient is indicated for Bankart repair with concomitant remplissage, surgeons may expect shoulder motion and postoperative outcomes similar to those of patients without engaging Hill-Sachs lesions who undergo Bankart repair without concomitant remplissage.

Level of Evidence

Therapeutic case series, level IV.

Increased rates of subjective shoulder instability after Bankart repair with remplissage compared to Latarjet surgery

HYPOTHESIS AND BACKGROUND

Controversy exists as to the ideal management of young active patients with subcritical glenoid bone loss and an off-track Hill-Sachs lesion, and the Latarjet and arthroscopic Bankart with remplissage are effective surgical options. The purpose of this study was to compare rates of recurrent instability and reoperation, as well as patient-reported outcome measures, between Latarjet and arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage surgery patients. The authors hypothesized that there would be no difference in rates of recurrent instability, reoperation, and postoperative outcomes between patients who underwent Latarjet surgery and patients who underwent Bankart repair with concomitant remplissage postoperatively.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients who underwent primary shoulder stabilization for shoulder instability from 2014 to 2019 were screened. Latarjet and Bankart repair with remplissage patients were included if arthroscopic surgery was performed in response to anterior shoulder instability. Recurrent instability, revision, shoulder range of motion, return to sport (RTS), and patient-reported outcome measures (Oxford Shoulder Instability, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form scores) were compared between groups.

RESULTS

Overall, 43 Latarjet patients (age: 29.8 ± 12.1 years, 36 males 7 females) and 28 Bankart repair with remplissage patients (age: 28.2 ± 8.8 years, 25 males 3 females) were included with a mean follow-up of 3.3 ± 1.9 years. Patients who underwent Latarjet surgery had larger amounts of bone loss (19% vs. 11%, P < .001), a lower rate of off-track Hill-Sachs lesions (47% vs. 82%, P < .001), and more frequently had a history of chronic shoulder dislocations (88% vs. 43%, P < .001) compared to Bankart repair with remplissage patients. Latarjet patients less frequently reported feeling subjective shoulder instability after surgery (21% vs. 50%, P = .022), which was defined as feeling apprehension or experiencing a shoulder subluxation or dislocation event. There were no differences in rates of postoperative dislocation, revision, reoperation, or RTS, as well as patient-reported outcome scores, between groups (all P > .05).

CONCLUSION

Despite differences in osseous defects, Latarjet and Bankart repair with remplissage patients had similar rates of clinical, patient-reported, and RTS outcomes at a mean of 3.3 years postoperatively. Latarjet surgery patients may be less likely to experience subjective shoulder instability postoperatively than patients who undergo Bankart repair with concomitant remplissage.

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 Trillat technique for chronic post-traumatic anterior shoulder instability: outcomes at 2 years of follow-up

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to assess the outcomes of a new arthroscopic Trillat technique at a 2-year follow-up. Our current hypothesis was that this technique could be used for the effective treatment of chronic post-traumatic unidirectional anterior shoulder instability, and that the recurrence and complication rates, external rotation, and functional outcomes would be as good as those of the reference technique.

METHODS

Between April 2012 and August 2016, all patients older than 16 years who underwent the arthroscopic Trillat technique for unidirectional chronic post-traumatic anterior shoulder instability at the Dijon University Hospital (France), after the failure of well-conducted medical and rehabilitation treatment with at least 24 months of follow-up, were included. Criteria for noninclusion were association with posterior and/or inferior instabilities, voluntary instabilities, and glenoid bone loss greater than 20%. Patients attended follow-up with their surgeon before the intervention, in the immediate postoperative period, at 6 weeks, 3 and 6 months, and then by an independent observer for the last evaluation. Patients were then examined clinically with scores such as Constant, Rowe and Walch-Duplay scores, and subjective shoulder value, for shoulder range of motion, and radiographically (anteroposterior and Lamy's lateral x-rays of the operated shoulder).

RESULTS

Forty-nine patients and 52 shoulders were included, with a mean follow-up of 40 months (range, 24-71 months). The recurrence rate of instability was 3.8% (2 of 52). No conversion to arthrotomy was necessary. No intraoperative complications, postoperative neurological lesions, or sepsis were observed. The mean Constant score was 92.1 (77.5-100) points, Walch-Duplay 82.9 (40-100), Rowe 81.73 (5-100), and subjective shoulder value 86.1 (50-100) at the last follow-up. The arm at side external rotation limitation averaged 8.4° (-25° to 40°) and the external rotation with 90° arm abduction limitation 0.34° (-5° to 15°). Forty-one patients (79%) resumed their sports activity at the same level. Fifty patients (96%) were satisfied to very satisfied. One patient developed nonunion of the coracoid process and subsequently underwent a Latarjet procedure with a good outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

The arthroscopic Trillat procedure offers good outcomes as a first-line treatment for chronic anterior post-traumatic glenohumeral instability. It should be excluded in cases of glenoid loss greater than 20%.

No Difference in Outcomes After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair With Remplissage or Arthroscopic Latarjet Procedure for Anterior Shoulder Instability

Purpose

To evaluate the outcomes of arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage (ABRR) compared with the arthroscopic Latarjet (AL) procedure for anterior shoulder instability in patients with a labral tear and a concomitant engaging Hill-Sachs lesion.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients who underwent either ABRR or the AL procedure for a diagnosis of anterior shoulder instability with a concomitant engaging Hill-Sachs lesion between 2011 and 2019 was performed. Recurrent instability, the visual analog scale score, the Subjective Shoulder Value, the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability score, patient satisfaction, willingness to undergo surgery again, and return to work or sport were evaluated.

Results

Our study included 41 patients treated with ABRR and 26 treated with the AL procedure. At final follow-up, there was no difference between patients who underwent ABRR and those who underwent the AL procedure in the reported Western Ontario Shoulder Instability score (21.8% vs 28.2%, P = .33) or any of its components, the visual analog scale score (0.9 vs 1.4, P = .32), the Subjective Shoulder Value (78.4 vs 74.5, P = .6062), the rate of satisfaction (81.6% vs 85.6%, P = .54), or whether patients would undergo surgery again (81.6% vs 96.1%, P = .16). Overall, 5 patients in the ABRR group and 2 patients in the AL group had recurrent instability events (12.2% vs 7.8%, P = .70), with no significant difference in the rate of recurrent dislocation (12.2% vs 3.8%, P = .39).

Conclusions

In patients with anterior shoulder instability and a concomitant Hill-Sachs lesion, both ABRR and the AL procedure were shown to be reliable treatments, with a low rate of recurrent instability and excellent patient-reported outcomes in appropriately selected patients. However, our study could not determine whether there was critical glenoid bone loss in patients undergoing ABRR, and surgeons should still exercise caution in performing ABRR in patients with high-grade glenoid bone loss or in those with failed prior stabilizations.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Arthroscopic Remplissage Using Knotless, All-Suture Anchors

Glenohumeral bone loss is a significant risk factor for recurrent instability after shoulder dislocation. The Hill-Sachs lesion is an osseous defect of the posterior humeral head that is commonly recognized after anterior shoulder dislocation. Several procedures exist to address humeral-sided bone loss, including soft tissue filling procedures, osteoarticular allografts, bone plugs, rotation osteotomies, and humeral head replacements. However, among the most common of these procedures is the arthroscopic remplissage. This technique involves capsulotenodesis of the posterior shoulder capsule and infraspinatus tendon into a Hill-Sachs lesion. Previously described techniques use knotted suture anchors. In this report, we describe a modified technique for remplissage using knotless, all-suture anchors to perform capsulotenodesis of a Hill-Sachs lesion. Benefits of this technique include a single skin incision, improved bone preservation, and easier facilitation of revision surgery if required.

Double-Pulley Remplissage in Active-Duty Military Population With Off-Track Anterior Shoulder Instability Results in Improved Outcomes and Low Recurrence at Minimum 4-Year Follow-Up

PURPOSE

To report mid-term outcomes of active-duty patients with anterior shoulder instability following our technique for double-pulley remplissage (DPR) with concomitant anterior labral repair.

METHODS

All consecutive patients from 1/2010 through 12/2016 that underwent DPR by the senior surgeon with complete outcome scores were identified. All patients had experienced a shoulder dislocation following a traumatic event, and had subsequent instability recalcitrant to conservative management. Patients were excluded if they were lost to follow-up (3) of if they underwent stabilization procedures other than DPR (148). Outcome measures were completed by patients within 1 week prior to surgery and at latest follow-up. Twenty-four patients met the inclusion criteria for the study, and all were active-duty military at the time of surgery.

RESULTS

20/24 (83.3%) patients met the patient acceptable symptomatic state (PASS), while 21/24 (87.5%) achieved substantial clinical benefit (SCB) and 22/24 (91.7%) exceeded the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for their operative shoulder, as determined by the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) Score. 21/24 (87.5%) patients met the PASS, while 19/24 (79.2%) achieved SCB and 20/24 (83.3%) exceeded the MCID for their operative shoulder, as determined by the single assessment numeric evaluation (SANE). In addition, 23/24 (95.8%) patients exceeded the MCID for their operative shoulder, as determined by the Rowe Instability score. Preoperative and postoperative range of motion did not vary significantly. All patients had decreased pain postoperatively (P < .0001); 22/24 (91.67%) of patients remained on active-duty status. Failure rate, defined as recurrent subluxation or dislocation, was 4.2%.

CONCLUSIONS

Mid-term outcomes in this population of active-duty patients undergoing DPR for shoulder instability without glenoid bone loss demonstrate a statistically and clinically significant improvement in patient-reported outcomes, a significant decrease of pain and an overall return to active-duty rate of 91.67%.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, therapeutic case series.

Combined Double-Pulley Remplissage and Bankart Repair

The use of arthroscopic Bankart repair to treat anterior shoulder instability has become increasingly widespread. However, high rates of recurrent instability within the presence of glenohumeral bony defects, specifically Hill-Sachs lesions, have well documented a key concern regarding the arthroscopic Bankart repair process. Our technique describes the pairing of a remplissage to fill the Hill-Sachs lesion with the Bankart repair, preventing loss in shoulder stiffness and stability. This technique involves a double-pulley-combined remplissage and Bankart repair to maintain a low-failure, minimally invasive procedure.

Anterior Shoulder Instability Part II-Latarjet, Remplissage, and Glenoid Bone-Grafting-An International Consensus Statement

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to establish consensus statements via a modified Delphi process on the Latarjet procedure, remplissage, and glenoid-bone grafting for anterior shoulder instability.

METHODS

A consensus process on the treatment utilizing a modified Delphi technique was conducted, with 65 shoulder surgeons from 14 countries across 5 continents participating. Experts were assigned to one of 9 working groups defined by specific subtopics of interest within anterior shoulder instability.

RESULTS

The technical approaches identified in the statements on the Latarjet procedure and glenoid bone-graft were that a subscapularis split approach should be utilized, and that it is unclear whether a capsular repair is routinely required. Furthermore, despite similar indications, glenoid bone-grafting may be preferred over the Latarjet in patients with bone-loss greater than can be treated with a coracoid graft, and in cases of surgeon preference, failed prior Latarjet or glenoid bone-grafting procedure, and epilepsy. In contrast, the primary indications for a remplissage procedure was either an off-track or engaging Hill-Sachs lesion without severe glenoid bone loss. Additionally, in contrast to the bone-block procedure, complications following remplissage are rare, and loss of shoulder external rotation can be minimized by performing the tenodesis via the safe-zone and not over medializing the fixation.

CONCLUSION

Overall, 89% of statements reached unanimous or strong consensus. The statements that reached unanimous consensus were the prognostic factors that are important to consider in those undergoing a glenoid bone-grafting procedure including age, activity level, Hill-Sachs Lesion, extent of glenoid bone-loss, hyperlaxity, prior surgeries, and arthritic changes. Furthermore, there was unanimous agreement that it is unclear whether a capsular repair is routinely required with a glenoid bone graft, but it may be beneficial in some cases. There was no unanimous agreement on any aspect related to the Latarjet procedure or Remplissage.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level V, expert opinion.

Arthroscopic All-Inside Suture Bridge for Remplissage Procedure Treating Off-Tracking Hill-Sachs Lesions in Anterior Shoulder Instability

Hill-Sachs lesions are significantly correlated with recurrent anterior shoulder instability. The remplissage procedure is designed to fill a posterosuperior humeral head defect with the infraspinatus tendon and posterosuperior capsule in patients with off-track Hill-Sachs lesions. This Technical Note describes an arthroscopic all-inside suture bridge to gain more footprint contact area and tissue compression to improve healing. Moreover, it does not have the necessity of going through the subacromial space to retrieve and tie the sutures. Thus, the procedure reduces the operative time and improves reproducibility.

Operative Versus Nonoperative Treatment Following First-Time Anterior Shoulder Dislocation

BACKGROUND

There is an ongoing debate about whether to perform operative or nonoperative treatment following a first-time anterior dislocation or wait for recurrence before operating. The aim of this systematic review is to compare recurrence rates following operative treatment following first-time anterior dislocation (OTFD) with recurrence rates following (1) nonoperative treatment (NTFD) or (2) operative treatment after recurrent anterior dislocation (OTRD).

METHODS

A literature search was conducted by searching PubMed (Legacy), Embase/Ovid, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews/Wiley, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials/Wiley, and Web of Science/Clarivate Analytics from 1990 to April 15, 2020, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The revised tool to assess risk of bias in randomized trials (RoB 2) developed by Cochrane was used to determine bias in randomized controlled trials, and the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) was used to determine the methodological quality of non-randomized studies. The certainty of evidence was assessed with the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach using GRADEpro software.

RESULTS

Of the 4,096 studies for which the titles were screened, 9 comparing OTFD and NTFD in a total of 533 patients and 6 comparing OTFD and OTRD in a total of 961 patients were included. There is high-quality evidence that OTFD is associated with a lower rate of recurrence (10%) at >10 years of follow-up compared with NTFD (55%) (p < 0.0001). There is very low-quality evidence that patients receiving OTFD had a lower recurrence rate (11%) compared with those receiving OTRD (17%) (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

There is high-quality evidence showing a lower recurrence rate at >10 years following OTFD compared with NTFD (or sham surgery) in young patients. There is evidence that OTFD is more effective than OTRD, but that evidence is of very low quality.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Arthroscopic remplissage with all-suture anchors causes cystic lesions in the humerus: a volumetric CT study of 55 anchors

PURPOSE

To evaluate with computed tomography (CT) the incidence of implant-related osteolysis after implantation of two types of all-suture anchors during remplissage for the management of Hill-Sachs lesions in shoulder instability.

METHODS

Single-cohort, observational study with a minimum of 12 months follow-up. Twenty-five participants (19 males and 6 females; mean age 37.4 years [SD: 11.6]) with Hill-Sachs lesions requiring remplissage were evaluated with a CT performed a mean of 14.1 [3.74] months after surgery. Fifty-five all-suture anchors (19 2.3 mm Iconix and 36 1.7 mm Suturefix) were used. The volume of the bone defects was measured in the CT. Every anchor was classified into one of four groups: (1) no bone defect. (2) Partial bone defect (bone defects smaller than the drill used for anchor placement). (3) Tunnel enlargement (bone defect larger than the drill volume but smaller than twice that volume). (4) Cystic lesion (bone defect larger twice the drill volume).

RESULTS

No bone defect was identified in only two anchors (3.6%, 95% CI 0.4-12.5%). A partial bone defect was found in eight anchors (14.5%, 95% CI 6.5-26.7%). In 35 anchors (63.6%, 95% CI 49.6-76.2%), there was enlargement of the bone defect that was smaller than 200% the size of the drill used. Ten anchors caused bone defects larger than twice the size of the drill used (18.2%, 95% CI 9.1-30.9%). The defect size was a mean of 89 mm³ (SD: 49 mm³, minimum 0 mm³, maximum 230 mm³).

CONCLUSION

When using all-suture anchors in arthroscopic remplissage during instability surgery, relevant bone osteolytic defects are common at 1-year-follow-up. Cystic defects larger than twice the volume of the resected bone during implantation develop in one in six anchors and significant tunnel widening will develop in another three out of five anchors. This bone loss effectively increases the size and depth of the Hill-Sachs lesions but does not seem to affect short-term clinical outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Arthroscopic Bankart repair with and without arthroscopic infraspinatus remplissage in anterior shoulder instability with a Hill-Sachs defect: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to compare patient-reported and clinic outcomes between arthroscopic Bankart repair with (REMP) and without (NO REMP) arthroscopic infraspinatus remplissage in patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability with a Hill-Sachs lesion and minimal glenoid bone loss.

METHODS

Patients 14 years or older with a recurrent anterior shoulder instability with the presence of an engaging Hill-Sachs defect (of any size) confirmed on computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging were eligible to participate. Consented patients were randomized intraoperatively to NO REMP or REMP. Study visits were conducted preoperatively and 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. The primary outcome was the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability score. Secondary outcomes included incidence of postoperative recurrent shoulder instability, Simple Shoulder Test, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, range of motion, complications, and revision surgery. To compare groups, a mixed-effects linear model was used for continuous variables and a χ² or Fisher's exact test for categorical data. A Kaplan-Meier survival analysis assessed survival distribution between groups.

RESULTS

One hundred and eight patients were randomized to Bankart repair with (n = 54) or without (n = 54) remplissage. The mean follow-up was 26.5 months (21-53 months) and 24.3 months (23-64 months) for the REMP and NO REMP groups, respectively. Rates of postoperative recurrent instability were higher (P = .027) in the NO REMP group with 9 of 50 (18%) vs. 2 of 52 (4%) postoperative dislocations in the REMP group. There were no significant differences in patient-reported outcomes between groups at any time point. Survival curve distributions were also significantly different favoring REMP (χ² = 5.255, P = .022). There was a significant difference in rate of revision surgery between groups with 6 in the NO REMP and none in the REMP groups (P = .029). Post hoc, patients were noted to have a higher risk for re-dislocation if their Hill-Sachs lesion was ≥20 mm in width or ≥15% of humeral head diameter. One intraoperative complication was reported in the REMP group.

CONCLUSIONS

There is significantly greater risk of postoperative recurrent instability in patients who did not have a remplissage performed in conjunction with an arthroscopic Bankart repair for the treatment of traumatic recurrent anterior shoulder instability with Hill-Sachs lesions of any size and minimal glenoid bone loss (<15%) at 2 years postoperatively. Otherwise, there are no differences in patient-reported outcomes, complications, or shoulder function at 2 years postoperatively. In addition, the remplissage procedure has significantly lower rates of re-dislocation in high-risk patients with Hill-Sachs lesions ≥20 mm and/or ≥15% in size.

All-Inside Knotless Remplissage Technique

Remplissage decreases the risk of recurrence after arthroscopic stabilization for recurrent anterior instability. Traditionally, the procedure requires accessing the subacromial space, which adds time and morbidity to the procedure. This Technical Note describes an all-inside technique for knotless remplissage with 2 interconnected anchors. By avoiding knot tying or accessing the subacromial space, the efficiency of the procedure is improved.

Evaluation and Management of Glenohumeral Instability With Associated Bone Loss: An Expert Consensus Statement Using the Modified Delphi Technique

PURPOSE

To establish an international expert consensus, using the modified Delphi technique, on the evaluation and management of glenohumeral instability with associated bone loss.

METHODS

A working group of 6 individuals generated a list of statements related to history and physical examination, imaging and specialized diagnostic tests, bone loss quantification and classification, treatment outcomes and complications, and rehabilitation for the management of glenohumeral instability associated with bone loss to form the basis of an initial survey for rating by a group of experts. The expert group (composed of 22 high-volume glenohumeral instability experts) was surveyed on 3 occasions to establish a consensus on the statements. Items with over 70% agreement and less than 10% disagreement achieved consensus.

RESULTS

After a total of 3 rounds, 31 statements achieved consensus. Eighty-six percent of the experts agreed that a history of multiple dislocations and failed soft-tissue surgery should raise suspicion about the possibility of an associated bone deficit. Ninety-five percent of the experts agreed that 3-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) is the most accurate diagnostic method to evaluate and quantify bone loss. Eighty-six percent of the experts agreed that any of the available methods to measure glenoid bone deficiency is adequate; however, 91% of the experts thought that an en face view of the glenoid using 3D CT provides the most accurate method. Ninety-five percent of the experts agreed that Hill-Sachs lesions are poorly quantified and classified by current imaging systems. Ninety percent of the experts agreed that in cases with a glenoid bone deficit greater than 20%, glenoid bone graft reconstruction should be performed and any of the available options is valid. There was no consensus among experts on how Hill-Sachs injuries should be managed or on how postoperative rehabilitation should be carried out.

CONCLUSIONS

The essential statements on which the experts reached consensus included the following: A history of multiple dislocations and failed soft-tissue surgery should make surgeons consider the possibility of an associated bone deficit. Three-dimensional CT is the most accurate diagnostic method to evaluate and quantify bone loss. Although any of the available methods to measure glenoid bone deficiency is adequate, an en face view of the glenoid using 3D CT provides the most accurate method. Hill-Sachs lesions are poorly quantified and classified by current imaging systems. Finally, in cases with a glenoid bone deficit greater than 20%, glenoid bone graft reconstruction should be performed.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level V, consensus statement.

Treatment type may influence degree of post-dislocation shoulder osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Age at primary dislocation, recurrence, and glenoid bone loss are associated with development of osteoarthritis (OA). However, an overview of OA following traumatic anterior shoulder instability is lacking and it is unclear to what degree type of surgery is associated with development of OA in comparison to non-operative treatment. The aim of this study was to determine the degree of OA at long-term follow-up after non-operative and operative treatments for patients with anterior shoulder instability. Surgery is indicated when patients experience recurrence and this is associated with OA; therefore, it was hypothesized that shoulders show a higher proportion or degree of OA following operative treatment compared to non-operative treatment.

METHODS

A literature search was performed in the PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases. Articles reporting the degree of OA that was assessed with the Samilson-Prieto or Buscayret OA classification method after non-operative and operative treatment for anterior shoulder instability with a minimum of 5 years follow-up were included.

RESULTS

Thirty-six articles met the eligibility criteria of which 1 reported the degree of OA for non-operative treatment and 35 reported the degree of OA for 9 different operative procedures. A total of 1832 patients (1854 shoulders) were included. OA proportions of non-operative and operative treatments are similar at any point of follow-up. The Latarjet procedure showed a lower degree of OA compared to non-operative treatment and the other operative procedures, except for the Bristow procedure and Rockwood capsular shift. The meta-analyses showed comparable development of OA over time among the treatment options. An increase in OA proportion was observed when comparing the injured to the contralateral shoulder. However, a difference between the operative subgroups was observed in neither analysis.

CONCLUSION

Non-operative and operative treatments show similar OA proportions at any point of follow-up. The hypothesis that shoulders showed a higher proportion or degree of OA following operative treatment compared to non-operative treatment is not supported by the data. Operative treatment according to the Latarjet procedure results in a lower degree of OA compared to other treatments, including non-operative treatment.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Remplissage for anterior shoulder instability with Hill-Sachs lesions: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the current evidence in the literature to determine how arthroscopic Bankart repair (ABR) and remplissage compare with ABR alone and the open Latarjet procedure for anterior shoulder instability in patients with concomitant Hill-Sachs lesions.

METHODS

A literature search was performed based on the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines. Studies comparing ABR and remplissage vs. ABR alone or the Latarjet procedure for anterior shoulder instability in patients with Hill-Sachs lesions were included. Clinical outcomes were compared, with all statistical analysis performed using Review Manager (version 5.3). P < .05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Twelve clinical trials were included. There was a significant difference between ABR plus remplissage and ABR alone in total recurrence rate (3.2% vs. 16.8%, P < .05) but not the rate of revision due to recurrence (1.7% vs. 8.5%, P = .06). There was no significant difference between the Latarjet procedure and ABR plus remplissage in total recurrence rate (7.0% vs. 9.8%, P = .39), total revision rate (3.7% vs. 5.7%, P = .41), and rate of revision due to recurrence (1.6% vs. 2.1%, P = .79). There was a significantly lower rate of complications with ABR and remplissage compared with the Latarjet procedure (0.5% vs. 8.6%, P = .003).

CONCLUSION

In patients with Hill-Sachs lesions and subcritical glenoid bone loss, ABR with remplissage resulted in lower rates of recurrent instability compared with ABR alone while resulting in similar recurrence rates, as well as similar patient-reported outcomes, with lower morbidity and fewer complications, compared with the Latarjet procedure.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III; Systematic Review.

High Rate of Return to Sports and Low Recurrences With the Latarjet Procedure in High-Risk Competitive Athletes With Glenohumeral Instability and a Glenoid Bone Loss <20

Purpose

To analyze return to sports, functional outcomes, and complications following the Latarjet procedure in competitive athletes with anterior glenohumeral instability and glenoid bone loss <20%.

Methods

All the included patients were operated between 2010 and 2016. The inclusion criteria were competitive athletes with anterior glenohumeral instability, a glenoid bone defect <20% who participated in contact sports, forced overhead sports, or had a previous failed Bankart repair and had a minimum 2 years’ follow-up. Return to sports, range of motion (ROM), the Rowe score, and the Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System score were used to assess functional outcomes. Complications and bone consolidation were also evaluated.

Results

A total of 65 athletes were included in the study. The mean follow-up was 53 months (±13), and the mean age was 23.9 years (range, 16-31 years). Overall, 94% were able to return to sports and 84% returned at the same level. No significant difference in shoulder ROM was found between preoperative and postoperative results. The Rowe and Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System scores showed statistical improvement after operation (P < .001). No significant difference in shoulder ROM and functional scores was found between primary and revision cases. The total complication rate was 11% and the revision rate was 1.5% The recurrence rate was 4.6%. The bone block healed in 95% of the cases.

Conclusions

In high-risk competitive athletes with anterior glenohumeral instability and glenoid bone loss <20%, the Latarjet procedure resulted in excellent functional outcomes, with most of the patients returning to sports and at the same level they had before injury with a low rate of recurrences

Level of Evidence

Therapeutic case series; Level of evidence, IV

What Are the Effects of Remplissage on 6-Month Strength and Range of Motion After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair? A Multicenter Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Patients who have undergone shoulder instability surgery are often allowed to return to sports, work, and high-level activity based largely on a time-based criterion of 6 months postoperatively. However, some believe that advancing activity after surgery should be dependent on the return of strength and range of motion (ROM).

HYPOTHESIS

There will be a significant loss of strength or ROM at 6 months after arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage compared with Bankart repair alone.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

A total of 38 patients in a prospective multicenter study underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage (33 males, 5 females; mean age, 27.0 ± 10.2 years; 82% with ≥2 dislocation events in the past year). Strength and ROM were assessed preoperatively and at 6 months after surgery. Results were compared with 104 matched patients who had undergone Bankart repair without remplissage, although all had radiographic evidence of a Hill-Sachs defect.

RESULTS

At 6 months, there were no patients in the remplissage group with anterior apprehension on physical examination. However, 26% had a ≥20° external rotation (ER) deficit with the elbow at the side, 42% had a ≥20° ER deficit with the elbow at 90° of abduction, and 5% had persistent weakness. Compared with matched patients who underwent only arthroscopic Bankart repair, the remplissage group had greater humeral bone loss and had a greater likelihood of a ≥20° ER deficit with the elbow at 90° of abduction (P = .004). Risk factors for a ≥20° ER deficit with the elbow at 90° of abduction were preoperative stiffness in the same plane (P = .02), while risk factors for a ≥20° ER deficit with the elbow at the side were increased number of inferior quadrant glenoid anchors (P = .003), increased patient age (P = .02), and preoperative side-to-side deficits in ER (P = .04). The only risk factor for postoperative ER weakness was preoperative ER weakness (P = .04), with no association with remplissage (P = .26).

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage did not result in significant strength deficits but increased the risk of ER stiffness in abduction compared with Bankart repair without remplissage at short-term follow-up.

Editorial Commentary: Unsolved Problems in Shoulder Instability-The Dilemma of Bone Loss!

Bone loss in the setting of shoulder instability is an unsolved problem. Procedures restoring bone stock on the glenoid side vary from minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques of arthroscopic bone block procedures to traditional transposition of the coracoid or bone transplant. These techniques are evolving, and several tips and tricks have been optimized to improve outcomes and to reduce the risk of complications, even though the most terrible complication of transposition of the coracoid remains osteoarthritis in the young adult. The major innovation in the past few years has been the use of remplissage. The aim of our surgical procedures is to restore the anatomy as much as possible. Therefore, gentle handling of bone defects on both the humeral and glenoid sides by means of an arthroscopic bone block and combined remplissage seems to be the future of our surgical procedures.