Early Outcomes and Perioperative Complications of the Arthroscopic Latarjet Procedure: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Short-Term Complications of Arthroscopic Bristow or Latarjet Procedure with Screw Versus Suture-Button Fixation: A Prospective Study of 308 Consecutive Cases by a Single Surgeon

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the short-term complications (minimum 1-year follow-up) after either an arthroscopic Bristow or Latarjet procedure for anterior shoulder instability utilizing screw or suture-button fixation.

METHODS

Patients undergoing arthroscopic Bristow or Latarjet procedures between November 2016 and April 2021 were enrolled. Data were collected at baseline, 3 months, 6 months, and every year after surgery. Risks of postoperative complications and unplanned reoperations were assessed. A multivariable regression model was used to identify risk factors for complications and to determine the association of complications with patient-reported outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 412 patients (425 shoulders) undergoing arthroscopic Bristow or Latarjet procedures performed by a single surgeon between November 2016 and April 2021 were reviewed. Two hundred and ninety-nine patients (308 shoulders, 76.2% of 404 eligible) with a mean follow-up of 22.3 ± 4.2 months were included for analysis. Two hundred and sixty-nine shoulders (87.3%) underwent a Bristow procedure (165 with screw and 104 with suture-button fixation), while 39 (12.7%) underwent a Latarjet procedure (18 with screw and 21 with suture-button fixation). Eighty-two patients (83 shoulders) reported a total of 85 complications within 2 years after surgery, with an overall complication rate of 26.9%. The rates of recurrent dislocation or subluxation and infection were 1.9% and 0.6%, respectively, while a total of 4 (1.3%) of the shoulders had unplanned reoperations. The most common complications were graft-related (11.7%), followed by complications involving neurologic symptoms (10.7%). The overall, graft, and neurologic complication rates following Bristow or Latarjet procedures were 27.1% versus 25.6%, 12.3% versus 7.7%, and 10.0% versus 15.4%, respectively. Compared with the Bristow technique with screw fixation, Bristow with suture-button fixation yielded a lower risk of any complications (odds ratio [OR], 0.55; p = 0.04). Paying with rural insurance and poor sleep quality prior to surgery were associated with increased risk of any complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with arthroscopic Bristow procedures with screw fixation, Bristow procedures with suture-button fixation resulted in a lower overall complication risk. Both patient demographic and implant-specific factors were associated with the development of a complication.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Distal Tibial Allograft for the Treatment of Anterior Shoulder Instability With Glenoid Bone Loss: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The use of a distal tibial allograft (DTA) for reconstruction of a glenoid defect in anterior shoulder instability has grown significantly over the past decade. However, few large-scale clinical studies have investigated the clinical and radiographic outcomes of the DTA procedure.

PURPOSE

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical studies with data on outcomes and complications in patients who underwent the DTA procedure for recurrent anterior shoulder instability with glenoid bone loss.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of major bibliographic databases was conducted for articles pertaining to the use of a DTA for the management of anterior shoulder instability with associated glenoid bone loss. Postoperative complications and outcomes were extracted and compiled in a meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 8 included studies with 329 total participants, the mean patient age was 28.1 ± 10.8 years, 192 (83.8%) patients were male, and the mean follow-up was 38.4 ± 20.5 months. The overall complication rate was 7.1%, with hardware complications (3.8%) being the most common. Partial graft resorption was observed in 36.5% of the participants. Recurrent subluxation was reported in 1.2% of the participants, and recurrent dislocation prompting a reoperation was noted in 0.3% of the participants. There were significant improvements in clinical outcomes, including American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (40.9-point increase; P < .01), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (47.2-point increase; P < .01), Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (49.4-point decrease; P < .01), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (20.0-point decrease; P = .03), and visual analog scale (2.1-point decrease; P = .05). Additionally, postoperative shoulder range of motion significantly increased from baseline values.

CONCLUSION

The DTA procedure was associated with a low complication rate, good clinical outcomes, and improved range of motion among patients with anterior shoulder instability and associated glenoid defects.

Return to play following operative management of anterior shoulder instability in overhead athletes-A systematic review

Background

The purpose of this study was to systematically review the rate and timing of return to play in overhead athletes following operative management of anterior shoulder instability.

Methods

A systematic literature search based on PRISMA guidelines, utilizing the EMBASE, MEDLINE, and The Cochrane Library Databases. Eligible for inclusion were clinical studies reporting on return to play among overhead athletes following arthroscopic Bankart repair, open Latarjet procedure or Remplissage procedure.

Results

There are 23 studies included with 961 patients. Among those undergoing arthroscopic Bankart repair, the rate of return to play was 86.2%, with 70.6% returning to the same level of play and the mean time to return to play was 7.1 months. Among those undergoing an open Latarjet procedure, the rate of return to play was 80.9%, with 77.7% returning to the same level of play and the mean time to return to play was 5.1 months. Among those undergoing a Remplissage procedure, the rate of return to play was 70.6%, with 70.0% returning to the same level of play or mean time to return to play.

Discussion

Overall, there were high rates of return to play following operative management of anterior shoulder instability in overhead athletes.

Anchorless Onlay Dynamic Anterior Stabilization of the Shoulder Using a Guided Posterior Double Endobutton Fixation

The treatment of shoulder instability in the presence of a subcritical glenoid defect poses challenges, as simple Bankart seems insufficient, and the Latarjet procedure may be excessive. Recently, a dynamic anterior stabilization technique involving anterior transposition of the long head of the biceps (LHB) through a subscapularis split was described for that purpose. Previously published results demonstrated good short-term results, but several technical pitfalls have also been mentioned. We describe an onlay, anchorless, and intra-articular knotless method of fixing the LHB into the anterior glenoid that provides the important stabilizing "sling effect" of the dynamic anterior stabilization while avoiding some of the pitfalls described by other techniques.

Isolated Primary Latarjet Procedures for Anterior Shoulder Instability Results in High Rates of Graft Resorption and Glenohumeral Degenerative Changes With Low Rates of Failure at a Minimum 2-Year Follow-Up: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

To evaluate the incidence of postoperative complications after an isolated primary Latarjet procedure for anterior shoulder instability at a minimum 2-year follow-up.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed in accordance with 2020 PRISMA guidelines. EMBASE, Scopus, and PubMed databases were queried from database inception through September 2022. The literature search was limited to human clinical studies reporting on postoperative complications and adverse events after a primary Latarjet procedure with a minimum 2-year follow-up. Risk of bias was measured using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

RESULTS

Twenty-two studies, consisting of 1,797 patients (n = 1,816 shoulders), with a mean age of 24 years were identified. The overall postoperative complication rate ranged from 0% to 25.7%, with the most common complication being persistent shoulder pain (range: 0%-25.7%). Radiological changes included graft resorption (range: 7.5%-100%) and glenohumeral degenerative changes (range: 0%-52.5%). Recurrent instability following surgery was documented in 0% to 35% of shoulders, while the incidence of bone block fractures ranged from 0% to 6% of cases. Postoperative nonunion, infection, and hematomas had a reported incidence rate ranging from 0% to 16.7%, 0% to 2.6%, and 0% to 4.4%, respectively. Overall, 0% to 7.5% of surgeries were reported failures, and 0% to 11.1% of shoulders required reoperation, with a revision rate ranging from 0% to 7.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of complications following the primary Latarjet procedure for shoulder instability was variable, ranging from 0% to 25.7%. High rates of graft resorption, degenerative changes, and nonunion were present while failure and revision rates remained low at a minimum 2-year follow-up.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, systematic review of Level I-III studies.

Arthroscopic Latarjet yields better union and prevention of instability compared to arthroscopic bony Bankart repair in shoulders with recurrent anterior instability: a systematic review

PURPOSE

To determine whether arthroscopic Latarjet procedure or arthroscopic bony Bankart repair provide better outcomes in terms of rates of recurrent instability, non-union and complications, as well as clinical scores and range of motion.

METHODS

An electronic literature search was performed using PubMed, Embase®, and Cochrane databases, applying the following keywords: "Arthroscopic bony Bankart" OR "Arthroscopic osseous Bankart" AND "Arthroscopic Latarjet" OR "Arthroscopic coracoid bone block".

RESULTS

The systematic search returned 1465 records, of which 29 were included (arthroscopic bony Bankart repair, n = 16; arthroscopic Latarjet, n = 13). 37 datasets were included for data extraction, on 1483 shoulders. Compared to arthroscopic Latarjet, arthroscopic bony Bankart repair had significantly higher instability rates (0.14; CI 0.10-0.18; vs 0.04; CI 0.02-0.06), significantly lower union rates (0.63; CI 0.28-0.91 vs 0.98; CI 0.93-1.00), and significantly lower pain on VAS (0.42; CI 0.17-0.67 vs 1.17; CI 0.96-1.38). There were no significant differences in preoperative glenoid bone loss, follow-up, complication rate, ROWE score, ASES score, external rotation, and anterior forward elevation between arthroscopic Latarjet and arthroscopic bony Bankart repair.

CONCLUSION

Compared to arthroscopic Latarjet, arthroscopic bony Bankart repair results in significantly (i) higher rates of recurrent instability (14% vs 4%), (ii) lower union rates (63% vs 98%), but (iii) slightly lower pain on VAS (0.45 vs 1.17). There were no differences in complication rates, clinical scores, or postoperative ranges of motion.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

A Systematic Review of Screw and Suture Button Glenoid Augmentation Constructs

Background

Glenohumeral dislocations often lead to glenoid bone loss and recurrent instability, warranting bony augmentation. While numerous biomechanical studies have investigated fixation methods to secure a graft to the glenoid, a review of available constructs has yet to be performed.

Purpose

To synthesize the literature and compare the biomechanics of screw and suture button constructs for anterior glenoid bony augmentation.

Study Design

Systematic review.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. There were 2 independent reviewers who performed a literature search using the PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar databases of studies published between 1950 and 2020. Studies were included that compared the biomechanical outcomes of fixation for the treatment of anterior shoulder instability with glenoid bone loss.

Results

Overall, 13 of the 363 studies screened met the inclusion criteria. The included studies measured the biomechanical strength of screws or suture buttons on a cadaveric or synthetic Latarjet construct. Screws and suture buttons were biomechanically similar, as both constructs exhibited comparable loads at failure and final displacement. Screw type (diameter, threading, or composition) did not significantly affect construct strength, and double-screw fixation was superior to single-screw fixation. Additionally, 2 screws augmented with a small plate had a higher load at failure than screws that were not augmented. Unicortical double-screw fixation was inferior to bicortical double-screw fixation, although construct strength did not significantly decrease if 1 of these screws was unicortical. Further, 2 screws inserted at 15° off axis experienced significantly higher graft displacement and lower ultimate failure loads than those inserted at 0° parallel to the glenoid.

Conclusion

Suture buttons provided comparable strength to screws and offer an effective alternative to reduce screw-related complications. Augmentation with a small plate may clinically enhance construct strength and decrease complications through the dispersion of force loads over a greater surface area. Differences in screw type did not appear to alter construct strength, provided that screws were placed parallel to the articular surface and were bicortical.

Effect of open versus minimally invasive surgery on postoperative wound site complications in patients with recurrent shoulder instability: A meta-analysis

The Latarjet procedure is the accepted method of operation for patients with anterior shoulder instability. However, as arthroscopy becomes more and more popular, more and more patients are being treated with minimally invasive techniques for the treatment of anteriorly unstable shoulder. This research aims to compare the curative effects of arthroscopic Latarjet (AL) and open Latarjet (OL) on postoperative anterior shoulder instability. Our hypothesis is that arthroscopy will produce better results than open surgery. During the study, a review was conducted on four main databases, including EMBASE and Cochrane Library. Six cohort studies comparing AL with OL in the treatment of anterior shoulder instability were included. Patients who were operated by open technique up to 2023 were referred to as OL and those who underwent arthroscopic surgery were referred to as AL. Comparison was made between the two methods of operation. The statistical analysis was done with RevMan 5.3. The analysis included Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores and postoperative wound infections. A total of six studies were included for analysis under inclusion and exclusion criteria. There were 798 patients, 476 was AL group and 322 was OL group. No statistical significance was found on the incidence of postoperative wound infection in the patients who underwent the Latarjet procedure (odds ratio [OR], 1.43; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.28-7.31; p = 0.67) and the VAS score after surgery (mean difference [MD], 0.70; 95% CI, -0.67 to 2.06; p = 0.32) for patients. However, it has now been demonstrated that arthroscopy is a safe and viable alternative. The only drawback of arthroscopic Latarjet surgery is probably that it has a long learning curve and requires a lot of practice from the surgeon.

Remodeling process and clinical outcomes following all-arthroscopic modified Eden-Hybinette procedure using iliac crest autograft and 1-tunnel double Endobutton fixation system

BACKGROUND

Arthroscopically modified Eden-Hybinette procedures for glenohumeral stabilization have been used for a long time. With the advancement of arthroscopic techniques and the development of sophisticated instruments, a double Endobutton fixation system has been used clinically to secure bone graft to the glenoid rim placed through a specifically designed guide. The purpose of this report was to evaluate clinical outcomes and serial glenoid remodeling process following all-arthroscopic anatomical glenoid reconstruction using autologous iliac crest bone grafting technique through 1-tunnel fixation.

METHODS

Forty-six patients with recurrent anterior dislocations and significant glenoid defects greater than 20% underwent arthroscopic surgery with a modified Eden-Hybinette technique. Instead of firm fixation, autologous iliac bone graft was fixed to the glenoid by double Endobutton fixation system through 1-tunnel placed in the glenoid surface. Follow-up examinations were performed at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. The patients were followed up for a minimum of two years using the Rowe score, the Constant score, the Subjective Shoulder Value, and the Walch-Duplay score; patient satisfaction with the procedure outcome was also rated. Graft positions, healing, and absorption were evaluated postoperatively with computed tomography imaging.

RESULTS

At a mean follow-up of 28 months, all patients were satisfied and had a stable shoulder. The Constant score improved from 82.9 to 88.9 points (P ＜ .001), the Rowe score, improved from 25.3 to 89.1 points (P < .001), the Subjective Shoulder Value improved from 31% to 87% (P < .001), and the Walch-Duplay score improved from 52.5 to 85.7 points (P ＜ .001). One donor-site fracture occurred during the follow-up period. All grafts were well-positioned and achieved optimal bone healing with zero excessive absorption. The preoperative glenoid surface (72.6% ± 4.5%) increased significantly immediately after surgery to 116.5% ± 9.6% (P ＜ .001). After a physiological remodeling process, the glenoid surface remained significantly increased at the last follow-up (99.2% ± 7.1%) (P ＜ .001). The glenoid surface area appeared to decrease serially when compared between the first 6 months and 12 months postoperatively, while there was no significant interval change between 12 and 24 months postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

Patient outcomes were satisfactory following the all-arthroscopic modified Eden-Hybinette procedure using an autologous iliac crest grafting technique through one-tunnel fixation system with double Endobutton. Graft absorption mostly occurred on the edge and outside the ''best-fit'' circle of the glenoid. Glenoid remodeling occurred within the first year after all-arthroscopic glenoid reconstruction with an auto iliac bone graft.

Open Versus Arthroscopic Latarjet for Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Instability: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background

The open Latarjet (OL) procedure and arthroscopic Latarjet (AL) procedure are able to treat recurrent anterior shoulder instability (RASI) with high success rates.

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical efficacy and postoperative revisions and complications between the OL and AL procedures in the treatment of RASI.

Study Design

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched to retrieve and include cohort studies comparing the OL and AL procedures for RASI. Clinical outcomes were compared, and results were reported as odds ratios (ORs) or mean differences (MDs) with 95% CIs.

Results

Eleven clinical trials with 1217 patients were included. There were no differences between the procedures in pain score, Rowe score, Walch-Duplay score, external rotation, persistent apprehension, instability, recurrence, revisions attributed to recurrent instability, overall complications, wound infection, hematoma, graft complications, screw-related complications, or osteoarthritis. When compared with the OL procedure, the AL procedure had a significantly lower nonunion rate (OR, 9.92; 95% CI, 1.71 to 57.71; P = .01); however, the AL procedure had a longer operation time (MD, -24.49; 95% CI, -48.44 to -0.54; P = .05), lower Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index score (MD, 97.27; 95% CI, 21.91 to 172.63; P = .01), higher revision rate (OR, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.16 to 0.95; P = .04), and greater screw deviation (MD, -6.41; 95% CI, -10.25 to -2.57; P = .001).

Conclusion

For most outcome measures, no difference was seen between the OL and AL procedures. The AL procedure had a lower Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index score and a higher revision rate and appeared to have a significant learning curve. However, the AL procedure resulted in a lower nonunion rate.

Arthroscopic Latarjet procedure and suture-button fixation: can we predict nonunion early?

BACKGROUND

The arthroscopic Latarjet procedure is a technically challenging technique that provides well-known results. The first series reported fixation with screws. An alternative fixation technique has been proposed, using a button, to improve the reproducibility and to decrease the complications due to screws. The first reports using this fixation technique have yielded comparable rates of fusion. The objective of this study was to assess the fusion rate and bone modifications with this type of fixation.

METHODS

Two hundred sixteen patients were included in this prospective study. An arthroscopic Latarjet procedure, fixed with 1 button according to the Smith & Nephew technique, was performed by a single surgeon for the treatment of anterior instability. The radiographic protocol consisted of computed tomography scans at 3, 12, and 24 weeks postoperatively. We measured the coronal and sagittal positions of the bone block, distance between the bone block and the glenoid, diameter of the glenoid tunnel, fusion rate, and time to fusion.

RESULTS

The position was deemed flush in 92.6% of cases in the coronal plane and under the equator in 87.5% of cases in the sagittal plane. At last follow-up, we observed 9 cases of nonunion (4%), as well as 18 cases of delayed fusion. The fusion rate was 92% at 3 months and 96% at 6 months. For bone blocks that ultimately healed, the diameter of the glenoid tunnel was <2 mm in 62% of cases at 3 weeks and <1 mm in 90% of cases at 3 months. Conversely, the diameter of this tunnel significantly increased and was >3 mm in all cases of delayed union or nonunion.

CONCLUSION

The described technique achieved a reliable position of the bone block and a very good fusion rate with a new type of fixation. The time to obtain fusion can be lengthy, occurring between the third and sixth months. The diameter of the glenoid tunnel was the best predictive factor for fusion. Widening of the glenoid tunnel diameter >3 mm during the first 3 weeks was the most predictive factor for delayed union or nonunion of the bone block. This finding is probably explained by a sliding effect of the sutures through this tunnel, comparable to the bungee effect in anterior cruciate ligament repair in the knee.

Is sling immobilization necessary after open Latarjet surgery for anterior shoulder instability? A randomized control trial

BACKGROUND

There is a current lack of knowledge regarding optimal rehabilitation and duration of sling immobilization after an open Latarjet procedure. A shift towards immediate self-rehabilitation protocols in shoulder surgery is observed to avoid postoperative stiffness and fasten return to sport. Avoiding sling immobilization could further simplify rehabilitation and provide an even faster return to activities of daily living and enhance patient satisfaction.

METHODS

This study is a single-center, randomized control trial. Sixty-eight patients will be instructed with the same standardized immediate postoperative self-rehabilitation protocol. Patients will be allocated 1:1 between a sling immobilization group for the first three postoperative weeks and no sling group without postoperative immobilization. The primary endpoint will be functional outcome at 6 months postoperative evaluated by the disease-specific Rowe score. Secondary endpoints will include baseline, 1.5-, 6-, and 12-month single assessment numeric evaluation (SANE) of instability score and visual analog pain scale (VAS). At the 6-month time point, graft bony union and position will be assessed by computed tomography. Motion capture technology will evaluate the baseline and 6-month postoperative range of motion. Finally, time to return to work and sport during the first postoperative year, along with patient satisfaction at one postoperative year, will also be recorded.

DISCUSSION

This study will allow further insights into the optimal rehabilitation protocol after open Latarjet surgery and enhance patient care by helping identify rehabilitation and coracoid graft-related factors influencing functional outcomes, bony union, range of motion, and patient satisfaction.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The protocol was approved by the ethical committee board (CCER 2019-02,469) in April 2020 and by ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT04479397 ) in July 2020.

Arthroscopic Dynamic Anterior Stabilization Using Either Long Head of the Biceps or Conjoined Tendon Transfer for Anterior Shoulder Instability Results in a Similarly Low Recurrence Rate

PURPOSE

To compare the clinical outcomes of arthroscopic dynamic anterior stabilization (DAS) between transferring the long head of the biceps (DAS-LHB) and the conjoined tendon (DAS-CT) for anterior shoulder instability with <15% glenoid bone loss.

METHODS

From January 2016 to May 2019, a total of 63 patients who underwent DAS for recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation with <15% glenoid bone loss were included, comprising 33 patients in DAS-LHB group and 30 patients in DAS-CT group. Clinical outcomes were assessed preoperatively and at a minimum 3-year follow-up, including patient-reported outcomes, range of motion, and return to sports (RTS). Postoperative recurrent instability (including dislocation, subluxation, and subjective instability with a positive apprehension test), revisions and complications also were recorded.

RESULTS

No significant demographic characteristics difference was detected between the DAS-LHB (26.3 ± 7.9 years) and DAS-CT groups (26.0 ± 6.7 years). At the latest follow-up, there were no significant differences between the 2 groups in functional scores: Oxford Shoulder Instability Score (14.8 ± 2.8 vs 15.2 ± 3.6), Rowe score (95.9 ± 6.5 vs 93.2 ± 10.2), visual analog scale for pain (0.8 ± 1.2 vs 0.7 ± 1.7), and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (95 ± 8.8 vs 95.2 ± 9.1) (all P > .218). No significant difference was detected between groups in the rates of RTS (90.1% vs 86.7%, P = .700) and RTS at previous level (78.7% vs 73.3%, P = .258), respectively. No recurrent dislocation occurred in either group. One patient felt occasional subluxation in the DAS-LHB group, and one was positive for the apprehension test in each group. One patient presented with postoperative shoulder stiffness and underwent a secondary arthroscopic debridement in the DAS-CT group.

CONCLUSIONS

Comparable rates of recurrence, complication, return to sports, and subjective shoulder function were observed between DAS-LHB and DAS-CT groups.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Ⅲ; retrospective comparative therapeutic trial.

Clinical and Radiological Outcomes in Patients With Anterior Shoulder Instability and Glenoid Bone Loss after Arthroscopic Free Bone Block Combined With Dynamic Anterior Stabilization

BACKGROUND

As an alternative to the Latarjet procedure, the arthroscopic free bone block (FBB) procedure combined with dynamic anterior stabilization (DAS) has been recently proposed to provide both glenoid augmentation and a tendon sling effect for treating anterior shoulder instability (ASI) with glenoid bone loss.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of FBB-DAS for ASI with glenoid bone loss.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Patients who underwent arthroscopic FBB-DAS for ASI with >15% glenoid bone loss between February 2017 and March 2020 were screened and enrolled in this study. Clinical outcome measures were assessed preoperatively and at a minimum 2-year follow-up, including recurrence, complications, shoulder functional scores, range of motion, and return to sports. Postoperative computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging were also performed.

RESULTS

Of a total of 65 patients with a mean follow-up of 46.1 ± 13.1 months, no patients experienced a recurrent dislocation or subluxation postoperatively, while 2 had a positive anterior apprehension test (3.1%). Additionally, 2 patients (3.1%) experienced complications of hematoma and shoulder stiffness, respectively. The mean visual analog scale score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, Rowe score, and Oxford Shoulder Instability Score all improved significantly from 3.2 ± 2.4, 75.0 ± 18.9, 43.6 ± 27.3, and 33.8 ± 9.0 preoperatively to 1.3 ± 0.8, 95.1 ± 8.0, 95.5 ± 7.8, and 14.8 ± 3.5 at final follow-up, respectively (all P < .001). No difference was detected in range of motion except for 8.1° and 7.5° external rotation limitations in adduction and abduction, respectively. There were 62 patients (95.4%) who returned to sports, and 54 patients (83.1%) returned to the preinjury level. The transferred biceps tendon was intact in all 59 patients who completed radiological examination at the latest follow-up. Good bone healing was achieved in 98.3% of patients, and the glenoid bone defect decreased from 18.1% to 4.9%. Osseous and labral glenoids were significantly enlarged in width and depth on the latest magnetic resonance imaging (all P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic FBB-DAS provided satisfactory clinical and radiological outcomes for ASI with glenoid bone loss. Despite slight external rotation restrictions, it achieved low recurrence and complication rates, excellent shoulder functional scores, a high return-to-sports rate, and favorable graft healing and remodeling.

Complications Related to Latarjet Shoulder Stabilization: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

In cases of recurrent anterior shoulder instability with a glenoid defect, Latarjet procedures are widely used for stabilization. Although complications with this procedure have been reported, few studies have comprehensively analyzed issues related to the Latarjet procedure.

PURPOSE

To identify the overall complication rate of the Latarjet procedure used for anterior shoulder instability and to compare the rate of complications between arthroscopic and open approaches.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were followed by using the PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases. Data on complications were extracted and classified as intraoperative, postoperative, or instability-related for further analysis. Quality assessments were performed with criteria from the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies (MINORS). A quantitative synthesis of data was conducted to compare the complication rates between arthroscopic and open approaches.

RESULTS

A total of 35 articles were included in this analysis. The MINORS score was 11.89. A total 2560 Latarjet procedures (2532 patients) were included. The overall complication rate was 16.1% (n = 412). The intraoperative complication rate was 3.4% (n = 87) and included a 1.9% (n = 48) incidence of nerve injuries and a 1.0% (n = 25) incidence of iatrogenic fractures. Screw problems, vascular injuries, and conversion arthroscopic to open surgery each occurred at a rate of <1%. The postoperative complication rate was 6.5% (n = 166), and the most common complication was nonunion (1.3%; n = 33). The instability-related complication rate was 6.2% (n = 159) and included a 1.5% (n = 38) rate of redislocation, a 2.9% (n = 75) rate of positive apprehension test, and a 1.0% (n = 26) rate of instability. Overall, 2.6% (n = 66) of patients required an unplanned secondary operation after the initial surgery. The arthroscopic approach was associated with a higher rate of intraoperative complications compared with the open approach (5.0% vs 2.9%; P =.020) and a lower rate of instability-related complications (3.1% vs 7.2%; P < .001).

CONCLUSION

The Latarjet procedure for anterior shoulder instability results in an overall complication rate of 16.1% and a reoperation rate of 2.6%. However, serious complications at short-term follow-up appear rare. When the arthroscopic approach was used, the rate of intraoperative complications was higher, although instability-related complications were lower when compared with the open approach.

Low rates of serious complications after open Latarjet procedure at short-term follow-up

PURPOSE

To report on intraoperative and short-term postoperative adverse events after open Latarjet procedure in patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability. These complications were classified into different grades of severity based on the treatment required and the learning curve of the procedure.

METHODS

Ninety-six patients (102 shoulders) underwent open Latarjet procedure for recurrent post-traumatic anterior glenohumeral instability between 2012 and 2020. The minimum duration of patients' follow-up was 6 months. Adverse events were classified into 3 classes based on the severity and subsequent treatment. The complications in the first 50% of all cases were compared with the latter 50% to evaluate the role of learning curve on the complication rates.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 7.2 ± 2.8 months. The patients' mean age was 26.7 ± 8.9 years and consisted of 83 (86.4%) male and 13 (13.6%) female patients. The total adverse events rate was 18.6%. Adverse events requiring no additional treatment (class 1) occurred in 6 cases (5.8%) including fibrous union (3.9%) and asymptomatic resorption of the graft (1.9%). Adverse events requiring additional or extended nonoperative management (class 2) occurred in 8 cases (7.8%), including coracoid fracture (2.9%), musculocutaneous nerve palsy (1.9%), axillary nerve palsy (0.9%), suprascapular nerve palsy (0.9%), and stiffness (0.9%). All the nerve palsies recovered without long-term sequelae. Adverse events requiring secondary operative procedures (class 3) occurred in 5 cases (4.9%), including symptomatic hardware (1.9%), medial healing of the graft (0.9%), screw loosening (0.9%), and deep infection (0.9%). The rate of adverse events in revision cases was higher than primary cases in 11.7% and 6.8%, respectively (P = .119). The complication rate was significantly higher in the first half of the surgeons' practice (14.7%) than in the second half (3.9%) (P ≤ .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The overall complication rate reported in this open Latarjet series is 18.6%; however, the rate of class 3 adverse events that required additional surgery or long-term medical treatment was only 4.9%. Revision cases had a higher rate of complications than primary cases, and the learning curve has had a significant impact on the rate of adverse events.

Clinical outcomes and recurrence rate of 4 procedures for recurrent anterior shoulder instability: ASA, remplissage, open, and arthroscopic Latarjet: a multicenter study

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to compare the clinical outcomes of 4 surgical techniques in patients with recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation, glenoid bone loss (GBL) <15% and Instability Severity Index (ISI) score >3.

METHODS

A retrospective multicenter study was conducted on 226 patients who underwent 1 of 4 different techniques (Bankart plus arthroscopic subscapularis augmentation (ASA), Bankart plus remplissage, Latarjet, Arthro-Latarjet). The inclusion criteria were: recurrent dislocation, GBL <15%, and ISI score >3. The exclusion criteria were: GBL >15%, voluntary instability, multidirectional instability, preexisting osteoarthritis, throwing athletes' first dislocation, and ISI score<3. Follow-up ranged from 24 months to 6 years. Hyperlaxity was clinically evaluated according to Neer and Coudane-Walch tests. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Rowe score and the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) for each technique. Before surgery, all patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scanning. The Pico area method was used to assess the percentage of GBL. The operations were performed by 10 experienced surgeons; the functional outcomes were evaluated by 2 independent observers.

RESULTS

A total of 226 patients who met the inclusion criteria were included in the present series. A total of 89.2% of patients in the ASA group reported an excellent Rowe score at the final follow-up, and their scores on the WOSI scale, improved from 838 to 235 points. A total of 79.9% of patients in remplissage (R) group reported an excellent Rowe score at the final follow-up, and their scores on the WOSI scale improved from 1146 to 465 points. A total of 98.5% of patients in the Latarjet (L) group reported an excellent Rowe score at the final follow-up, and their scores on the WOSI scale improved from 1456 to 319 points. A total of 81.6% of patients in the Arthro-Latarjet (AL) group reported an excellent Rowe score at the final follow-up, and their scores on the WOSI scale improved from 1250 to 221 points. The recurrence rates were as follows: ASA group (7%), remplissage group (6.1%), L group (1.5%), Arthro-Latarjet group (0%). Patients in the open L group had 15.5% (10/66) more complications.

CONCLUSION

The use of ASA and remplissage to augment the Bankart repair have been demonstrated to be effective for restoring joint stability, yielding good clinical outcomes similar to the L procedure in patients affected by recurrent anterior dislocation with GBL <15% and an ISI score score >3. Soft tissues augmentations of the Bankart repair have been demonstrated to be effective for addressing anterior soft tissue deficiency dysfunction and critical Hill-Sachs lesions.

Arthroscopic Autologous Scapular Spine Bone Graft for Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Dislocation With Subcritical (10%-15%) Glenoid Bone Loss

For anterior shoulder instability with subcritical glenoid bone loss (10%-15%), there is no consensus on the optimal treatment. Now, we describe the technique of using autogenous scapular spine bone graft for recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation. This procedure can effectively increase the anterior bone barrier and strengthen the effect of Bankart repair. In addition, this procedure not only avoids coracoid or iliac crest transfer, but also adopts nonrigid fixation, which makes it safer and more convenient. We believe that this technique will provide a promising alternative to the surgical treatment of recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation in subcritical glenoid bone loss (10%-15%).

Dynamic Anterior Stabilization Using Transosseous Bone Tunnel Technique With the Adjustable Loop Length Cortical Button Incorporating High-Strength Suture Augmentation for Recurrent Shoulder Instability

Dynamic anterior stabilization using the long head of the biceps tendon is a recently described technique in the management of recurrent shoulder dislocation with subcritical bone loss. This technique involves the transfer of the long head of the biceps to the glenoid, providing sling and hammock effect. The long head of the biceps (LHB) tendon fixation can be accomplished with a variety of implants. We present a modified fixation technique of LHB tendon using transosseous bone tunnel with the adjustable loop length cortical button, incorporating high-strength suture augmentation device in a patient with recurrent glenohumeral instability with limited glenoid bone loss and an engaging Hill-Sachs defect in the humeral head.

Arthroscopic Latarjet With Cortical Buttons Versus Open Latarjet With Screws: A Short-Term Comparative Study

BACKGROUND

The arthroscopic bone block procedure according to Latarjet remains a controversial subject, and few comparative studies have demonstrated the benefit of arthroscopy over open surgery.

PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS

The objective of this study was to compare both procedures by analyzing the short-term clinical results. The hypothesis was that the arthroscopic procedure is superior to the standard open procedure.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHOD

This was a retrospective comparative study. Patients treated for chronic anterior instability by arthroscopic Latarjet with double cortical buttons (group A) or open Latarjet with screws (group O) with a minimum follow-up of 12 months were included. Intraoperative (duration, complications) and postoperative (complications, pain, mobility, functional scores, resumption of sport, Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale scar aesthetics, satisfaction) data were compared.

RESULTS

In total, 50 patients were included (n = 24 in group A, n = 26 in group O). Operating time was longer in group A (103 vs 61 min; P = .001). The average number of days on analgesics was higher in group A (8.9 vs 5.3 days; P = .04). The complication rate was similar for the 2 groups (12.5% vs 27%; P = .46). At 3 months, the loss of external rotation was greater in group A (-33° vs -18°; P = .01), and resumption of sports was less frequent (11% vs 48%; P = .01). At 12 months, the average scores were excellent, with no significants differences between the 2 groups: Walch-Duplay average, 90 points; Rowe, 94 points; Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), 92.5%; sport SSV, 85%; and Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale score, 17.2 points.

CONCLUSION

Over the short term, this comparative study did not prove the superiority of the cortical-button arthroscopic Latarjet procedure over the open Latarjet procedure. A delay in the resumption of sports, longer time to recover range of motion, and no benefit regarding postoperative pain or the aesthetic aspect of the scar were observed in this study with the arthroscopic procedure.

Arthroscopic Latarjet for Primary Shoulder Instability With Off-Track Lesions or Revision Surgery Yields Satisfactory Clinical Results and Reliable Return to Sport and Work at Minimum 3-Year Follow-Up

PURPOSE

To retrospectively evaluate clinical and radiologic outcomes and return to sport and to work of patients after arthroscopic Latarjet stabilization for primary instability or revision surgery; factors influencing and determining results and potential predictors for clinical outcomes also were evaluated.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study including patients older than 18 years old who underwent arthroscopic Latarjet stabilization for recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability with off-track lesions, or for cases of recurrence after previous surgery, from 2011 to 2017. Patients were assessed preoperatively and at a minimum 3 years of follow-up using the Rowe score, the University of California at Los Angeles Shoulder Score and Simple Shoulder Test score; the range of motion, satisfaction rate, return to work and sport, perception of discomfort during sporting and daily activities, and complications and recurrence after surgery were also evaluated. The integration of the coracoid graft and the position of the screws were examined by computed tomography scan.

RESULTS

At a mean follow-up time of 6 ± 2 years, 93 patients (95 shoulders) showed significant improvement of all scale scores (P < .001), 97.8% of the patients had returned to the same working condition as before surgery, and all the patients who practiced sports preoperatively (85; 91.4%) returned to sport after surgery; 97.9% of patients were satisfied with surgery. The complication rate was 5.4%, and 2 cases (2.1%) of recurrence occurred, both after high-energy trauma. At an average of 17 ± 13 months postoperatively, computed tomography scans showed 4 (6.6%) stable nonunions, 9 (14.8%) superior, and 1 (1.6%) inferior lyses of the graft; a correct positioning of the graft was observed in 86.9% of the cases. Greater satisfaction, fewer complications, less pain during daily activities, and a lower number of reoperations were associated with a shorter time between the first dislocation episode and surgery (P = .019, P < .001, P = .014, and P = .005, respectively). Complications were directly associated with older patient age at operation (P = .001). A greater number of nonunions was found in patients with increased angle between the line linking the posterior and anterior glenoid rim and the screw axis (P = .040) and a medial axial position or a lower coronal position of the graft (both P = .010). A lower age at the time of surgery predicted better Rowe scores at follow-up (P < .001), and a lower age at the time of the first episode of dislocation predicted better postoperative Simple Shoulder Test scores (P = .026).

CONCLUSIONS

At a mean 6-year follow-up time, excellent clinical outcomes, and radiological results, with few complications, high rates of satisfaction and return to work and sport and low sports anxiety can be expected after arthroscopic Latarjet procedure. A shorter time between the first dislocation episode and surgery was associated with higher satisfaction, fewer complications, less pain during daily activities and lower reoperations; a lower age at the operation was associated with lower complications.

Use of Cannulated Screws for Primary Latarjet Procedures

Background

Rapid consolidation of the bone block is paramount for the success of the Latarjet procedure. Noncannulated screws have shown satisfactory long-term bone block fusion, while cannulated screws are challenged with inferior mechanical properties and fusion rates.

Purpose

To report outcomes of the Latarjet procedure using cannulated screws, notably bone block fusion and complication rates at 3 months, as well as clinical scores and return to sports at minimum 2 years postoperatively.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

We reviewed the records of 124 consecutive patients (124 shoulders) who underwent primary Latarjet procedures using cannulated screws between 2015 and 2018. All patients underwent clinical examination at 3 months postoperatively, including range of motion and radiographs to assess graft fusion. The Walch-Duplay score, Rowe score, Subjective Shoulder Value, and visual analog scale for pain were collected at a minimum follow-up of 2 years.

Results

Overall, 9 patients (7%) required reoperation: 7 (6%) had screw removal for unexplained residual pain, 1 (0.8%) had lavage for deep infection, and 1 (0.8%) had evacuation to treat a hematoma. Furthermore, 3 patients (2.4%) had recurrent instability, none of whom underwent reoperation. At 3-month follow-up, all 124 shoulders showed complete radiographic graft fusion, and at 40 ± 11 months (mean ± SD; range, 24-64 months), 88% of patients had returned to sport (109/124), the Walch-Duplay score was 86 ± 14, Rowe was 84 ± 15, Subjective Shoulder Value was 88 ± 11, and visual analog scale for pain was 1 ± 1.

Conclusion

The clinical relevance of these findings is that 4.5-mm cannulated screws are safe and effective for primary Latarjet procedures and grant adequate graft healing, with low recurrence of instability and a high rate of return to sports.

Tensioning device increases coracoid bone block healing rates in arthroscopic Latarjet procedure with suture-button fixation

BACKGROUND

There is growing interest in using suture buttons for coracoid fixation to avoid the complications associated with screws during the Latarjet procedure. However, achieving bone block healing is critical for successful shoulder stabilization and return to sport. The purpose of this study was to assess and compare the healing rates and positioning of the coracoid bone block fixed with cortical suture buttons that were either manually tensioned (using a knot pusher) or mechanically tensioned (using a tensioning device) during arthroscopic Latarjet procedures.

METHODS

This prospective, nonrandomized, comparative study enrolled 69 consecutive patients (mean age, 27 years) who underwent an arthroscopic guided Latarjet procedure with suture-button fixation. Hand tensioning was performed in the first 34 shoulders, whereas the next 35 shoulders underwent mechanical tensioning. Twelve patients (17%) had a history of failed Bankart stabilization. The characteristics of the patients in each group in terms of age, sex, type of sport, bone loss, number of previous failed surgical procedures, smoking, and length of follow-up were comparable. Intraoperatively, the tensioning device was set at 100 N successively 3 times until complete immobilization of the bone block was confirmed, as assessed with a probe. The primary outcome measure was coracoid bone block union and position on computed tomography scan images at 6 months' follow-up. Secondary outcome measures included functional outcome scores, shoulder stability, return to sports, and complications at last follow-up.

RESULTS

Overall, the rate of bone block healing was 74% (25 of 34 patients) in the hand-tensioning group and 94% (33 of 35 patients) in the mechanical tensioning group (P = .043). Smoking was an independent risk factor associated with nonunion (P < .001) in each group. Patient age, size of the preoperative glenoid bone defect (<20% or >20%), and a history of surgery were not found to have any influence. The tensioning modality did not affect the bone block position, which was subequatorial in 92% of the cases and flush with the glenoid rim in 92%. At a mean of 34 months of follow-up (range, 24-62 months), 96% of the patients (65 of 69) had a stable shoulder and 87% returned to sports. At final follow-up, no significant difference in clinical scores was noted between the groups; no neurologic or hardware complications were observed.

CONCLUSION

Mechanical tensioning achieves significantly higher healing rates than hand tensioning during the arthroscopic Latarjet procedure with suture-button fixation. The use of a suture-tensioning device is a key step to the suture-button fixation technique during arthroscopic Latarjet procedures. By making the suture-button construct rigid, the tensioning device transforms the initially flexible suture into a "rigid fixation", similar to a bolt (or a rivet).

Dynamic Double-Sling Augmentation Prevents Anteroinferior Translation for Recurrent Anteroinferior Shoulder Dislocation With 20% Glenoid Bone Loss: A Cadaveric Biomechanical Study

PURPOSE

To biomechanically compare the dynamic double-sling with single-sling augmentation using the conjoined tendon (CT) with 20% of an anteroinferior glenoid bone defect under the high loads in shoulders.

METHODS

With the shoulder in 60° of glenohumeral abduction and 60° of external rotation, the 12 shoulders stability was tested sequentially in 5 conditions: intact, 20% glenoid bone loss, Bankart repair, single-sling augmentation with the CT, and double-sling augmentation with both the CT and long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT). The anteroinferior humeral head (HH) translation force of 20N, 30N, 40N, 50N, or 60N was applied to determine the shoulder stability in each condition.

RESULTS

The total HH translation over 8.77 mm represented the anteroinferior shoulder instability (95% confidence interval of bone defect: 7.76-8.77 mm). A significant increase in anteroinferior HH translation was demonstrated after the creation of 20% glenoid bone defect under the 20N translational force (10.52 ± 0.71 mm). Structural failure after the Bankart repair and the single-sling augmentation under the 30N (9.84 ± 1.25 mm) and 40N (9.59 ± 0.66 mm) translational forces, respectively, were observed. The double-sling augmentation effectively prevented the anteroinferior HH translation under the translational force of less than 40N, and only half of the augmentation structure (8.25 ± 1.66 mm) had failed under the 50N translational forces.

CONCLUSION

In the absence of any Hill-Sachs lesion and when tested at 60° abduction and external rotation in shoulders with 20% glenoid bone defects, at time-zero, the double-sling augmentation strategy could effectively prevent anteroinferior translation when compared with the Bankart repair or the single-sling augmentation technique under all magnitudes of the translational force in biomechanical simulation. Nevertheless, none of the constructs restored the HH translation to the normal intact state.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Double-sling augmentation technique may represent a reliable option for preventing anteroinferior translation.

Surgical treatment of anterior shoulder instability with glenoid bone loss with the Latarjet procedure in active-duty military service members

INTRODUCTION

The arthroscopic Bankart repair in the setting of glenoid bone loss has high rates of failure. In patients with anterior glenoid bone loss, the Latarjet provides glenohumeral stability through restoration of the glenoid bone, the conjoint tendon acting as a sling on the subscapularis, and anterior capsulolabral repair. Active-duty military personnel are at high risk for glenohumeral instability and have been equated to the contact athlete; most are young, male, and engage in contact sports. The purpose of this study is to assess the return to full-duty rates in active-duty military personnel following the Latarjet for anterior glenohumeral instability with glenoid bone loss.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all glenohumeral instability procedures were reviewed at a tertiary training hospital from June 2014 to June 2019. The patient population consisted of active-duty military personnel with glenoid bone loss and anterior glenohumeral instability, who were treated with a Latarjet. The primary outcome was return to full-duty status.

RESULTS

There were 50 patients identified for the study. Four patients were lost to follow-up, leaving 46 of 50 patients (92.0%) eligible for this study. The average age at the time of the index procedure was 23.1 years. The average percentage bone loss was 18.4%. Forty-one patients (89.1%) were able to return to full-duty status. Four patients (8.7%) sustained a recurrent dislocation following the Latarjet; all 4 dislocations occurred during a combat deployment. Four patients (8.7%) reported episodes of subluxation without dislocation. Forty-one patients (89.1%) reported that their shoulders felt stable, and we found an average return to full duty at 5.3 months CONCLUSION: In our active-duty military cohort, we found an 8.7% rate of recurrent instability after a Latarjet procedure, and 41 patients (89.1%) were able to return to full-duty status. In conclusion, the Latarjet procedure in the active-duty military population with anterior glenoid bone loss resulted in a high rate of return to duty, excellent functional outcomes, low rate of recurrent instability, and a low overall complication rate.

Evaluation of Latarjet procedure in female athletes: a three-year follow-up prospective cohort study

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Arthroscopic Latarjet: 2 or 4 Cortical Buttons for Coracoid Fixation? A Case-Control Comparative Study

BACKGROUND

While 2 screws are traditionally used for coracoid bone block fixation, no gold standard technique has yet been established when using cortical buttons.

PURPOSE

To compare anatomic and clinical outcomes of the arthroscopic Latarjet procedure using either 2 or 4 buttons for coracoid bone block fixation.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

A total of 23 patients with 4-button fixation (group 4B) were matched for age at surgery, sex, and follow-up to 46 patients who had 2-button fixation (group 2B). All patients underwent guided arthroscopic Latarjet (using coracoid and glenoid guides), and a tensioning device was used to rigidify the suture button construct and get intraoperative bone block compression. The primary outcome was assessment of bone block positioning and healing using computed tomography scans performed at 2 weeks and at least 6 months after surgery. The mean ± standard deviation follow-up was 49 ± 7 months (range, 24-64 months).

RESULTS

The bone block healing rate was similar in both groups: 91% in group 4B versus 95.5% in group 2B. The transferred coracoid was flush to the glenoid surface in 21 patients (91%) in group 4B and 44 patients (96%) in group 2B (P = .6); it was under the equator in 22 patients (96%) in group 4B and 44 patients (96%) in group 2B (P≥ .99). There was no secondary bone block displacement; the rate of bone block resorption was similar between the groups: 28% in group 4B and 23% in group 2B (P = .71). Patient-reported outcomes, return to sports, and satisfaction were also similar between the groups. The operating time was significantly longer in group 4B (95 vs 75 minutes; P = .009).

CONCLUSION

A 4-button fixation technique did not demonstrate any anatomic or clinical advantages when compared with a 2-button fixation technique, while making the procedure more complex and lengthening the operating time by 20 minutes. A 2-button fixation is simple, safe, and sufficient to solidly fix the transferred coracoid bone block. The use of drill guides allows accurate graft placement, while the use of a tensioning device to rigidify the suture button construct provides high rates of bone block healing with both techniques (>90%).

A novel supplementary anchor fixation technique for reinforcing fixation in bone grafting procedures for shoulder instability

Bony stabilization procedures are a reliable solution for recurrent shoulder instability, but have a steep learning curve due to technical difficulties. Meticulous capsular closure is critical and can be augmented with suture anchor constructs. In addition, although fracture or fragmentation of the coracoid graft is relatively uncommon, it is devastating. Here, we describe the use of additional circumferential suture fixation to improve compression across the graft/glenoid interface and help mitigate the risk of fracture bony augmentation procedures.

Modified Dynamic Anterior Stabilization (DAS) and Hill-Sachs Remplissage for the Treatment of Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Dislocation

The optimal treatment for recurrent glenohumeral instability is a subject under debate. The recently described arthroscopic technique for dynamic anterior stabilization (DAS) fills the treatment indication gap between reconstructive bony procedures and soft tissue stabilization. However, indications for DAS are considered limited or not appropriate for patients with recurrent shoulder dislocations caused by severe bone defects. In this Technical Note, we present a modified all-arthroscopic DAS technique with added infraspinatus and posterior capsule remplissage to correct the extra-articular Hill-Sachs defect in a patient with recurrent dislocations and off-track bony lesions. The patient requested an alternative treatment option, other than the complication-prone Latarjet procedure.

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.

Outcomes of the Latarjet Procedure Versus Free Bone Block Procedures for Anterior Shoulder Instability: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Free bone block (FBB) procedures for anterior shoulder instability have been proposed as an alternative to or bail-out for the Latarjet procedure. However, studies comparing the outcomes of these treatment modalities are limited.

PURPOSE

To systematically review and perform a meta-analysis comparing the clinical outcomes of patients undergoing anterior shoulder stabilization with a Latarjet or FBB procedure.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched from inception to 2019 for human-participants studies published in the English language. The search was performed according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement including studies reporting clinical outcomes of patients undergoing Latarjet or FBB procedures for anterior shoulder instability with minimum 2-year follow-up. Case reports and technique articles were excluded. Data were synthesized, and a random effects meta-analysis was performed to determine the proportions of recurrent instability, other complications, progression of osteoarthritis, return to sports, and patient-reported outcome (PRO) improvement.

RESULTS

A total of 2007 studies were screened; of these, 70 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. These studies reported outcomes on a total of 4540 shoulders, of which 3917 were treated with a Latarjet procedure and 623 were treated with an FBB stabilization procedure. Weighted mean follow-up was 75.8 months (range, 24-420 months) for the Latarjet group and 92.3 months (range, 24-444 months) for the FBB group. No significant differences were found between the Latarjet and the FBB groups in the overall random pooled summary estimate of the rate of recurrent instability (5% vs 3%, respectively; P = .09), other complications (4% vs 5%, respectively; P = .892), progression of osteoarthritis (12% vs 4%, respectively; P = .077), and return to sports (73% vs 88%; respectively, P = .066). American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores improved after both Latarjet and FBB, with a significantly greater increase after FBB procedures (10.44 for Latarjet vs 32.86 for FBB; P = .006). Other recorded PRO scores improved in all studies, with no significant difference between groups.

CONCLUSION

Current evidence supports the safety and efficacy of both the Latarjet and FBB procedures for anterior shoulder stabilization in the presence of glenoid bone loss. We found no significant differences between the procedures in rates of recurrent instability, other complications, osteoarthritis progression, and return to sports. Significant improvement in PROs was demonstrated for both groups. Significant heterogeneity existed between studies on outcomes of the Latarjet and FBB procedures, warranting future high-quality, comparative studies.

Excellent Clinical and Radiological Midterm Outcomes for the Management of Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Instability by All-Arthroscopic Modified Eden-Hybinette Procedure Using Iliac Crest Autograft and Double-Pair Button Fixation System: 3-Year Clinical Case Series With No Loss to Follow-Up

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical, functional, and radiological midterm outcomes of the all-arthroscopic modified Eden-Hybinette procedure in patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability.

METHODS

A retrospective, single-center case series with prospectively collected data was conducted. The inclusion criterion was traumatic recurrent anterior shoulder instability with significant glenoid bone loss; patients with atraumatic or multidirectional instability were excluded. An all-arthroscopic modified Eden-Hybinette procedure using iliac crest autograft and double-pair button fixation was carried out. All patients were postoperatively assessed for recurrence and apprehension. Shoulder range of motion values and functional scores, including American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Score, Oxford instability, Rowe instability, and Walch-Dupplay, were recorded. Graft positions, healing, and absorption were evaluated with computed tomography. Comparisons of values were performed with paired t tests for normally distributed differences and with nonparametric Wilcoxon's signed rank test otherwise.

RESULTS

The final study cohort included 28 patients, mean age 36 ± 10 years, and mean follow-up period 43 ± 6 months (range 36 to 53). Median glenoid bone loss was 12.4% (range 8% to 33%). No recurrence occurred, no subjective shoulder instability was reported, and no major complications were documented through the last follow-up. Postoperative shoulder range of motion had no significant differences compared with the healthy side. All final postoperative functional scores significantly increased to show excellent results compared with preoperative values. All grafts were positioned and healed optimally, and none was completely reabsorbed.

CONCLUSIONS

The all-arthroscopic modified Eden-Hybinette procedure is safe, leading to excellent clinical and radiological midterm outcomes in patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability. This technique restores glenoid bone defects and preserves the normal shoulder anatomy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, therapeutic, retrospective case series.

[The causes of Latarjet surgery failure and the revision surgeries]

OBJECTIVE

To review the causes of Latarjet surgery failure and various revision surgeries, in order to provide the reference for the revision of treatment options for Latarjet surgery failure.

METHODS

Literature on the causes of Latarjet surgery failure and revision surgeries was extensively reviewed and analyzed.

RESULTS

Latarjet surgery is widely used in clinical practice for recurrent anterior dislocation of shoulder with glenoid defects, especially for the defects of more than 25%. The main reasons for its failure are ununion, bone resorption, graft dislocation, trauma, and graft fracture, etc. The revision surgeries are diverse, the standard treatment has not yet been formed. The revision surgeries include open iliac bone grafting, microscopic Eden-Hybinette surgery, soft tissue reconstruction, open or arthroscopic bone grafting, etc. The differences among the revisions are mainly reflected in grafts, complications, and their costs.

CONCLUSION

Latarjet surgery is difficult to operate and requires high technical requirements for the surgeons. It is necessary to continuously improve the surgical technology to reduce the complications related to Latarjet surgery and its revision surgery.

The Shoulder Trans-pectoralis Arthroscopic Portal Is a Safe Approach to the Arthroscopic Latarjet Procedure: A Cadaveric Analysis

PURPOSE

To assess the proximity of neurovascular structures in a layered approach during medial portal placement and determine standardized measurements for establishing a portal medial to the coracoid used in arthroscopic Latarjet-type procedures.

METHODS

Twelve shoulders (6 right and 6 left) in 6 fresh frozen cadaveric torsos were mounted in the modified beach-chair position. A standard posterior portal and 3 anterior portals-central, lateral, and medial-were used. A long spinal needle was placed along the path of the medial portal to the lateral tip of the coracoid, superficial to the conjoined tendon and pectoralis minor. A second long spinal needle was directed toward the medial base of the coracoid, penetrating the pectoralis minor. Superficial and deep plane dissections were performed, and distances to surrounding neurovascular structures were recorded.

RESULTS

In the superficial plane, the cephalic vein and lateral pectoral nerve were located a mean distance (± standard deviation) of 4.6 ± 1.9 mm and 9.4 ± 2.6 mm from the spinal needle, respectively. In the deep plane, the axillary nerve was 24.9 ± 7.4 mm from the needle; the lateral cord of the brachial plexus, 25.5 ± 8.1 mm; the axillary artery, 34.1 ± 6.0 mm; and the musculocutaneous nerve, 42.2 ± 9.2 mm. The portal was consistently established 45.0 to 50.0 mm distal and 30.0 to 35.0 mm medial to the coracoid, which was a minimum distance of 10 mm to the lateral pectoral nerve.

CONCLUSIONS

In a cadaveric model, the creation of a medial trans-pectoralis major portal used in the arthroscopic Bankart-Bristow-Latarjet procedure can avoid compromise of vital neurovascular structures, alleviating concerns of creating a portal medial to the coracoid. Portal placement 45.0 to 50.0 mm distal and 30.0 to 35.0 mm medial to the palpable tip of the coracoid process may be a safe approach to perform the arthroscopic Bankart-Bristow-Latarjet procedure.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Creation of a portal medial to the level of the coracoid may pose a risk to neurovascular structures. This cadaveric study establishes a working zone for medial trans-pectoralis portal placement, which avoids vital neurovascular structures, and provides standardized measurements for establishing this portal for use in the arthroscopic Bankart-Bristow-Latarjet procedure.

The novel arthroscopic subscapular quadriceps tendon-bone sling procedure provides increased stability in shoulder cadavers with severe glenoid bone loss

PURPOSE

Treatment of anterior glenoid bone loss in patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability is a challenge. The subscapular sling method with quadriceps tendon bone (QTB) graft is a modification of the subscapular sling with a semitendinosus (ST) graft. The aim of the study was to test the biomechanical stability of the QTB sling procedure in human shoulder cadavers with severe anterior glenoid bone loss.

METHODS

Fourteen cadaveric shoulders were tested with a force-moment-guided robot in three conditions: physiologically intact, anterior glenoid bone resection, and the subscapular sling procedure with a QTB graft. Joint stability was measured in anterior, anterior inferior and inferior directions in four glenohumeral joint positions: 0° and 60° of glenohumeral abduction, with each at 0° and 60° of external rotation. Maximum external rotation was measured at 0° and 60° glenohumeral abduction. Computer tomography scans were obtained preoperatively to plan the glenoid bone resection, as well as postoperatively to calculate the proportion of the glenoid bone actually resected.

RESULTS

Significantly decreased translations were observed in the shoulders with the QTB sling compared to the intact joint and the glenoid bone loss model. No significant differences in maximum external rotation were observed between the three different conditions.

CONCLUSION

This biomechanical study revealed a significant stabilizing effect of the arthroscopic subscapular QTB graft sling procedure in human shoulder cadavers without compromising external rotation. Clinical trials may reveal the usefulness of this experimental method.

Latarjet procedure enables 73% to return to play within 8 months depending on preoperative SIRSI and Rowe scores

PURPOSE

Systematic reviews report return to play (RTP) within 5.8 months (range, 3-8) following the Latarjet procedure, but the factors that influence RTP remain unknown. The present study aimed to report the rate and time of return to play (RTP) during the first 8 months following the Latarjet procedure, and to determine the influence of sport type or patient characteristics.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively collected the records of patients that underwent Latarjet procedures for anterior shoulder instability between 2015 and 2017. Patients were excluded if they had any concomitant rotator cuff tendon lesions, or previous ipsilateral shoulder surgery. The authors retrieved patient demographics, time from injury to surgery, type of sport practiced (overhead/non-overhead, contact/non-contact), as well as pre- and postoperative Western Ontario Shoulder Instability index (WOSI), Shoulder Instability-Return to Sport After Injury index (SIRSI), and Rowe score.

RESULTS

A total of 217 patients (217 shoulders) were eligible for inclusion, comprising 184 males and 33 females, aged 26.8 ± 7.3 years at index surgery. The main sport practiced prior to surgery involved overhead (n = 173, 80%) and/or contact (n = 152, 70%) activities. By 8 month follow-up, 158 patients (73%) resumed their main sport, at a mean of 5.1 ± 1.5 months. Multivariable analysis revealed that RTP was more likely in patients with higher preoperative Rowe score (OR, 1.02; p = 0.024) and SIRSI score (OR, 1.02; p = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

By 8 months following the Latarjet procedure, 73% of patients had resumed their main sport. The likelihood of RTP was significantly associated with preoperative Rowe and SIRSI scores, but not with sport type.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Arthroscopic iliac crest bone grafting in recurrent anterior shoulder instability: minimum 5-year clinical and radiologic follow-up

PURPOSE

To investigate the clinical and radiologic mid- to long-term results of arthroscopic iliac crest bone-grafting for anatomic glenoid reconstruction in patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability.

METHODS

Seventeen patients were evaluated after a minimum follow-up of 5 years. Clinical [range of motion, subscapularis tests, apprehension sign, Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), Constant Score (CS), Rowe Score (RS), Walch Duplay Score (WD), Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI)], and radiologic [X-ray (true a.p., Bernageau and axillary views) and computed tomography (CT)] outcome parameters were assessed.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients [mean age 31.1 (range 18-50) years] were available after a follow-up period of 78.7 (range 60-110) months. The SSV averaged 87 (range 65-100) %, CS 94 (range 83-100) points, RS 89 (range 30-100) points, WD 87 (range 25-100) points, and WOSI 70 (range 47-87) %. The apprehension sign was positive in two patients (14%). One patient required an arthroscopic capsular plication due to a persisting feeling of instability, while the second patient experienced recurrent dislocations after a trauma, but refused revision surgery. CT imaging showed a significant increase of the glenoid index from preoperative 0.8 ± 0.04 (range 0.7-0.8) to 1.0 ± 0.11 (range 0.8-1.2) at the final follow-up (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic reconstruction of anteroinferior glenoid defects using an autologous iliac crest bone-grafting technique yields satisfying clinical and radiologic results after a mid- to long-term follow-up period. Postoperative re-dislocation was experienced in one (7.1%) of the patients due to a trauma and an anatomic reconstruction of the pear-shaped glenoid configuration was observed.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Early Follow-Up of Arthroscopic Latarjet Procedure with Screw or Suture-Button Fixation for Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Instability

Objective

To evaluate the early clinical and radiographic results of arthroscopic Latarjet procedure using screw or suture‐button fixation in patients with recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation.

Methods

Twelve patients who underwent arthroscopic Latarjet procedure between January 2015 and December 2018 at our institution were retrospectively studied. Data of the patients' history, including age, gender, side of affected arm, body mass index (BMI), and the number of dislocations since fist dislocation were collected. Preoperative and postoperative clinical follow‐up data were evaluated using Walch–Duplay score, American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) score, and modified Rowe score. Active external rotation and active internal rotation at 90° of abduction as well as active elevation were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively. The position and healing condition of the transferred coracoid bony graft were also assessed using computed tomography (CT) and Mimics 19.0 software.

Results

Mean follow‐up was 24.9 months (range, 13 to 53 months) of all patients. At final follow‐up, the average ASES score (preoperative vs postoperative values) had improved from 68.9 ± 7.9 to 91.1 ± 6.1 in screw fixation group and 68.9 ± 8.9 to 87.5 ± 6.7 in suture‐button fixation group; the average Rowe score (preoperative vs postoperative values) had improved from 25.0 ± 8.4 to 92.5 ± 4.2 in screw fixation group and 21.7 ± 13.7 to 93.3 ± 4.1 in suture‐button fixation group; the average of Walch–Duplay score (preoperative vs postoperative values) had improved from 12.5 ± 15.1 to 91.7 ± 4.1 in screw fixation group and 18.3 ± 20.7 to 88.3 ± 7.5 in button fixation group. The forward flexion was 175.0° ± 8.4° preoperatively and 178.3° ± 4.1° postoperatively in screw fixation group while 174.8° ± 10.2° preoperatively and 175.0° ± 5.5° postoperatively in suture‐button fixation group. The active external rotation was 77.5° ± 5.2° preoperatively and 71.7° ± 4.1° postoperatively in screw fixation group while 72.5° ± 6.9° preoperatively and 68.3° ± 7.5° postoperatively in suture‐button fixation group. The average of active internal rotation was 66.7° ± 6.1° preoperatively and 67.5° ± 6.1° postoperatively in screw fixation group while 68.3° ± 11.3° preoperatively and 66.7° ± 7.5° postoperatively in suture‐button fixation group. In postoperative CT scan, 91.7% grafts midline center were located at or under the equator in the en face view; 75% of the bone blocks were flush to the glenoid face in the axial view, with only two grafts exhibiting slight medial placement in screw fixation group (33.3%) and one graft exhibiting slight lateral placement in suture‐button fixation group (16.7%). All grafts achieved bone union. Graft absorption mostly occurred outside of the “best‐fit” circle. The average bony absorption rates of the coracoid grafts were 25.2% and 10.18% in screw fixation group and suture‐button fixation group, respectively, at 6 months postoperative follow‐up.

Conclusion

Both suture‐button fixation and screw fixation techniques in arthroscopic Latarjet procedure revealed excellent clinical outcomes with low complication rates in the early follow‐up. The suture‐button fixation exhibited a flexible fixation pattern that allowed for self‐correction to some extent, even slight lateralization could finally remodel over time.

Relationship of the Musculocutaneous Nerve and Its Twigs to the Coracoid Process: An Operative Exposure

Background:

A musculocutaneous nerve (MCN) injury is a rare complication of the Latarjet procedure. Most of these injuries are neurapraxias and resolve with time; however, permanent injuries can occur. Understanding the anatomy and relationship of the MCN to the coracoid process is essential to prevent injuries.

Purpose:

To provide realistic, in situ–referenced measurements for the Latarjet procedure.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 12 matched-pair cadaveric specimens (24 fresh-frozen shoulders) were dissected. Coracoid osteotomy was performed, and the MCN and its respective twigs were identified. Measurements were made from the coracoid process to the entry site of the nerve twigs and trunk into the coracobrachialis muscle.

Results:

Overall, 70.8% of specimens had twigs; however, there was a discrepancy in the presence (41.7%) and number (75.0%) of twigs in the paired specimens. The most proximal twigs were, on average, 33.5 ± 8.1 mm (range, 21.9-47.6 mm) from the coracoid process. The main trunk was, on average, 51.1 ± 14.4 mm (range, 16.7-71.9 mm) from the coracoid process. In 33.3% of specimens, the nerve entered the coracobrachialis at a distance shorter than 5 cm below the coracoid process, and this increased to 91.7% when the twigs were accounted for.

Conclusion:

The previously described safe zone of 5 cm below the coracoid process may not be reliable to protect the MCN or its twigs. Using 3 cm would decrease the chances of damaging a twig or the main trunk. In 33.3% of the specimens, the nerve entered the coracobrachialis at a distance shorter than 5 cm below the coracoid process, and this increased to 91.7% when twigs were accounted for.

Clinical Relevance:

As the Latarjet procedure is an emerging technique, it is essential to be aware of the anatomic structures and the relation between different neural structures to anatomic points of reference. Therefore, the results of this study add significant information for a safe surgical procedure for the majority of patients suffering from shoulder instability.

Management of Traumatic Coracoid Fracture and Anterior Shoulder Instability With a Modified Arthroscopic Latarjet Technique

Coracoid fractures are an uncommon injury and typically occur in the setting of high-energy trauma. Isolated injury to the coracoid is rare; therefore, a high suspicion for concomitant shoulder injuries should exist. These associated injuries have been shown to be acromioclavicular dislocations, clavicular and acromial fractures, scapular spine fractures, rotator cuff tears, and anterior shoulder dislocations. Although most of these shoulder injuries respond to nonsurgical treatment, there are case reports and literature reviews that present more complicated injuries requiring surgical intervention. Shoulder dislocations with associated coracoid fractures can also manifest glenoid bone loss resulting in continued instability. In this scenario, the fractured coracoid can be used to address the glenoid bone loss, as well as the continued instability. Regarding technique, other authors have described an open procedure with screw or anchor fixation. This Technical Note describes our technique for treating a displaced Ogawa type II coracoid process fracture with concomitant anterior shoulder dislocation by an arthroscopic Latarjet procedure using the fractured coracoid.

A Multicenter Retrospective Study With a Minimum 5-Year Follow-up Comparing Arthroscopic Bankart Repair and the Latarjet Procedure

Background:

Arthroscopic Bankart repair (ABR) and the Latarjet procedure are surgical techniques commonly used to treat anterior shoulder instability. There is no consensus among shoulder surgeons regarding the indications for choosing one over the other.

Purpose:

To compare the results of the Latarjet procedure with those of ABR for the treatment of anterior shoulder instability.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Data on all patients who were treated surgically for recurrent anterior shoulder instability between 2006 and 2011 were retrospectively collected at 4 medical centers. The minimum follow-up was 5 years. Data were retrieved from medical charts, and patients were interviewed to assess their level of satisfaction (range, 0-100), functional outcomes (using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons shoulder score; the Subjective Shoulder Value; and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score), and quality of life (using the 12-Item Short Form Health Survey [SF-12]). Information on return to sports activities and postoperative level of activity compared with that of the preinjury state, complications, reoperations, and recurrent instability were recorded and evaluated.

Results:

A total of 242 patients were included. The Latarjet procedure was performed in 27 shoulders, and ABR was performed in 215 shoulders. Patients in the ABR group had significantly higher rates of redislocation (18.5%; P = .05) and subluxation (21.4%; P = .43) but a lower rate of self-reported apprehension (43.0%; P = .05) compared with patients in the Latarjet group (3.7%, 14.8%, and 63.0%, respectively). There were 5 patients in the ABR group who underwent reoperation with the Latarjet procedure because of recurrent instability. The functional scores in the Latarjet group were better than those in the ABR group. The SF-12 physical score was significantly better in the Latarjet group than in the ABR group (98.1 vs 93.9, respectively; P = .01). Patient satisfaction and subjective scores were similar in both groups.

Conclusion:

These results support recently published data on the Latarjet procedure that showed its superiority over ABR in midterm stability (dislocations or subluxations). The contribution of self-reported apprehension to the broad definition of stability is not clear, and apprehension rates were not correlated with satisfaction scores or the recurrence of dislocation or subluxation.

Cortical suture button fixation vs. bicortical screw fixation in the Latarjet procedure: a biomechanical comparison

BACKGROUND

The Latarjet procedure traditionally has been performed with 2 screws in an open manner. Recently, cortical suture button fixation for coracoid transfer has been used in hopes of mitigating complications seen with screw placement. The aim of this study was to evaluate a cortical suture button and technique currently available in the United States compared with screw fixation in the Latarjet procedure in a cadaveric model.

METHODS

We randomly assigned 9 matched pairs of fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders (N = 18) to undergo the Latarjet procedure with either screw fixation or cortical suture button fixation. After fixation, all shoulders underwent biomechanical testing with direct loading on the graft vas a material testing system. Cyclic testing was performed for 100 cycles to determine axial displacement with time; each graft was then monotonically loaded to failure.

RESULTS

The maximum cycle displacement was significantly less for screw fixation vs. cortical suture button fixation (3.1 ± 1.3 mm vs. 8.9 ± 2.1 mm, P < .0001). The total load at failure was 481.1 ± 88.8 N for screws and 175.5 ± 95.8 N for cortical suture buttons (P < .0001). Bony damage to the surrounding anatomy was more extensive at failure in the screw-fixation group.

CONCLUSION

At time zero, the cortical button fixation and technique did not resist direct loads to the graft as much as traditional screw fixation, although bony damage to the surrounding anatomy was more extensive in screw fixation than button fixation. In the event of unanticipated loading, this could place a patient at higher risk of graft migration, which could lead to unintended early outcomes. These results support the need for implants and techniques specifically tailored to the Latarjet procedure and should bring into question the adoption of a cortical button and technique not specific to the procedure.

Arthroscopic Latarjet Procedure: A Technique Using Double Round ENDOBUTTONs and Specific Glenoid and Coracoid Guides

The Latarjet procedure is a method used for the treatment of shoulder instability in the presence of bone loss. A decade after the first description of the fully arthroscopic Latarjet procedure, modifications to the technique were reported to decrease the risk of complications and improve the position of the bone block. A recent trend toward the use of buttons to fix the coracoid has been reported. The technique described here is an arthroscopic Latarjet procedure that uses 2 pairs of round buttons as an alternative to screw fixation or the use of a single button, and the technique aims to combine the original procedure with safe and stable fixation.

Screw Removal Can Resolve Unexplained Anterior Pain Without Recurrence of Shoulder Instability After Open Latarjet Procedures

BACKGROUND

Anterior shoulder instability can be successfully treated using Latarjet procedures, although a small proportion of patients report unexplained pain.

PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS

The purpose was to report the prevalence and characteristics of patients with unexplained pain without recurrent instability after open Latarjet procedures and to determine whether screw removal can alleviate pain. The hypothesis was that unexplained pain without recurrent instability might be due to soft tissue impingements against the screw heads and that the removal of screws would alleviate or reduce pain.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical and radiographic records of 461 consecutive shoulders treated by open Latarjet procedures for anterior instability between 2002 and 2014. Unexplained anterior pain was present in 21 shoulders (4.6%) and treated by screw removal at 29 ± 37 months (mean ± SD). Postoperative assessment at >12 months after screw removal included complications, visual analog scale for pain (pVAS), subjective shoulder value, Rowe score, Walch-Duplay score, and ranges of motion. The study cohort comprised the shoulders of 20 patients (9 women, 11 men) aged 25 ± 6 years (median, 25 years; range, 16-34 years) at screw removal and involved the dominant arm in 13 (62%) shoulders.

RESULTS

Screw removal alleviated pain completely in 14 shoulders (67%; pVAS improvement, 6.4 ± 1.8; median, 6; range, 3-8) and reduced pain in the remaining 7 (33%; pVAS improvement, 2.4 ± 1.4; median, 2; range, 1-5). At 38 ± 23 months after screw removal, 2 recurrences of instability unrelated to screw removal occurred. The subjective shoulder value was 79% ± 22% (median, 90%; range, 0%-95%); Rowe score, 85 ± 20 (median, 95; range, 30-100); and Walch-Duplay score, 82 ± 19 (median, 85; range, 25-100). Mobility improved in active forward elevation (171°± 14°), external rotation with the elbow at the side (61°± 12°), and external rotation with the arm at 90° of abduction (67°± 13°) and especially in internal rotation, with only 2 shoulders (10%) limited to T12 spine segment.

CONCLUSION

The present findings confirm that unexplained anterior pain after Latarjet procedures can be related to the screws used to fix bone blocks, which can safely be alleviated or reduced by screw removal.

A systematic review of complications related to laparoscopic and laparoscopic-assisted procedures in dogs

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate and report the quality of the scientific literature reporting complications associated with laparoscopic and laparoscopic-assisted procedures in client-owned or healthy research dogs and to report and illustrate laparoscopic complications related to individual organ systems.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review.

ANIMALS

Client-owned or healthy research dogs.

METHODS

A literature review was performed by using PubMed and CAB abstracts for English-language studies providing descriptions of complications related to laparoscopic and laparoscopic-assisted procedures in dogs. Study selection used PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Quality assessment was performed by using a MINORS (Methodological Items for Non-Randomized Studies) scoring system and a grading scale of level of evidence. Descriptive statistics were used.

RESULTS

In total, 741 manuscripts were identified, with 64 manuscripts eligible for data extraction and quality assessment. The most represented organ system was the female genital tract, represented by 22 (34.4%) studies. The most commonly reported intraoperative and postoperative complications were related to abdominal entry and portal incisions, respectively. In 53 of 54 non-randomized studies, high risk of bias was found. Forty-eight (75%) studies provided level III or IV evidence.

CONCLUSION

This report provides an updated review of complications related to laparoscopic and laparoscopic-assisted procedures in dogs, classified by organ system. The overall quality of evidence was low, limiting direct comparison of complication rates between studies.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

There is a need for implementation of standardized criteria for defining complications, study time frames and greater numbers of high quality prospective randomized trials in veterinary laparoscopy to permit comparison of complication and conversion rates between published studies and across organ systems.

Modified Arthroscopic Latarjet Procedure: Suture-Button Fixation Achieves Excellent Remodeling at 3-Year Follow-up

BACKGROUND

Some studies have advocated the use of suture-button fixation during the Latarjet procedure to reduce complications associated with screw fixation. However, the sample size of these studies is relatively small, and their follow-up period is short.

PURPOSE

To investigate the efficacy of the suture-button Latarjet procedure with at least 3 years of follow-up and remodeling of the coracoid graft.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A total of 152 patients who underwent the suture-button Latarjet procedure between February 2013 and February 2016 were selected, and 128 patients who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled in this study. Preoperative and postoperative clinical results were assessed. The position and healing condition of the coracoid graft and arthropathy of the glenoid and humeral head were also assessed using radiography and 3-dimensional computed tomography (CT).

RESULTS

The mean follow-up time was 40.3 ± 5.8 months. There were 102 patients included in this study. The mean visual analog scale score for pain during motion, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, the Rowe score, and the Walch-Duplay score were improved considerably. A total of 100 grafts achieved bone union. The overall absorption rate was 12.6% ± 4.3%. Graft absorption mostly occurred on the edge and outside the "best-fit" circle of the glenoid. A vertical position was achieved in 98 grafts (96% of all cases) immediately postoperatively, with the mean graft midline center at the 4 o'clock position. In the axial view, CT showed that 89 grafts were flush to the glenoid, whereas 2 and 11 grafts were fixed medially and laterally, respectively. In all cases, the bone graft and glenoid tended to extend toward each other to form concentric circles during the remodeling process. During follow-up observations, the height of the 11 grafts that were positioned laterally (ie, above the glenoid level) exhibited a wave-curved change. No arthropathy was observed in any patient.

CONCLUSION

Patient outcomes were satisfactory after the modified arthroscopic suture-button Latarjet technique. Graft absorption mostly occurred on the edge and outside the "best-fit" circle of the glenoid. The graft exhibited the phenomenon of ectatic growing when it fused with the glenoid and finally remodeled to a new concentric circle with the humeral head analogous to the original glenoid. Grafts positioned laterally did not cause arthropathy of the joints within the period of the study.

Outcomes After Latarjet Procedure: Patients With First-Time Versus Recurrent Dislocations

BACKGROUND

The preoperative number of dislocations has been previously proved to be a major factor influencing the results after Bankart repair with more preoperative dislocations correlated with higher recurrence rates and more reoperations. This could possibly be because of the lower quality of the tissue repaired during the procedure after multiple dislocations. On the other hand, the Latarjet procedure does not "repair" but rather reconstructs and augments the anterior glenoid.

PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS

The main objective was to report the clinical outcomes of patients undergoing a Latarjet procedure after 1 dislocation versus multiple (≥2) dislocations. The hypothesis was that the preoperative number of dislocations would not influence clinical results.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

Patients older than 18 years who had undergone a primary Latarjet procedure for shoulder instability with at least 2 years of follow-up were included. Three different techniques were used: a mini-open technique using 2 screws, an arthroscopic technique using 2 screws, and an arthroscopic technique using 2 cortical buttons. Patients were evaluated and answered a questionnaire to assess the number of episodes of dislocation before surgery, the time between the first dislocation and surgery, recurrence of the dislocation, revision surgery, the Walch-Duplay score, the Simple Shoulder Test score, and the visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain.

RESULTS

A total of 308 patients were included for analysis with a mean follow-up of 3.4 ± 0.8 years. Of that, 83 patients were included in the first-time dislocation group and 225 in the recurrent dislocation group. At last follow-up, the rates of recurrence and reoperation were not significantly different between groups: 4.8% in the first-time dislocation group versus 3.65% in the recurrent dislocation group and 6.1% versus 4.0%, respectively. The overall Walch-Duplay scores at last follow-up were also comparable between the 2 groups, 67.3 ± 24.85 and 71.8 ± 25.1, even though the first-time dislocation group showed a lower pain subscore (15.0 ± 8.6 vs 18.0 ± 7.5; P = .003). The VAS for pain was also significantly higher in the first-time dislocation group compared with the recurrent dislocation group (1.8 ± 2.3 vs 1.2 ± 1.7; P = .03).

CONCLUSION

The number of episodes of dislocation before surgery does not affect postoperative instability rates and reoperation rates after the Latarjet procedure. However, patients with first-time dislocations had more postoperative pain compared with patients with recurrent dislocations before surgery.

Arthroscopic Latarjet Stabilization: Analysis of the Learning Curve in the First 90 Primary Cases: Early Clinical Results and Computed Tomography Evaluation

PURPOSE

To assess the learning curve of arthroscopic Latarjet, evaluating time of surgery, clinical outcomes, complications, revisions, and recurrence.

METHODS

Arthroscopic Latarjet procedures performed from 2011 to 2016 were reviewed. Satisfaction rate, subjective shoulder value, Walch-Duplay, Rowe scores, range of motion, and stability were evaluated on clinical examination. Graft position and fusion were analyzed using computed tomography. All patients were divided into 3 chronological groups.

RESULTS

Ninety patients (3 groups of 30) were available for clinical evaluation (96,8%). The mean follow-up was 23.7 months. Surgical time was significantly (P = .0028) longer in group I (mean 128 minutes, standard deviation [SD] 33.6) when compared with groups II (mean 102 minutes, SD 16.2) and III (mean 108 minutes, SD 21.8). A regression analysis and cumulative sum learning curve analysis showed the surgeon oscillated around mean operative time (112.7 minutes; SD 27.2) after 30 procedures. The number of intraoperative complications was significantly greater (P = .024) in Group I (5 cases; 17%) compared with zero in group II, and 3 (10%) in group III. All 3 cases (3.3%) of recurrence were reported in group I (P = .033). Significantly, 2 of 3 patients with recurrence had intraoperative graft complications (P = .0107). Overall patient satisfaction was evaluated as 92%, SSV 90%, Walch-Duplay and Rowe scores, respectively, 79 and 81 points. Nine revisions (10%) were reported. No significant differences were found between the results and revisions of the 3 chronological groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms that the arthroscopic Latarjet procedure provides good clinical and radiologic results at short-term follow-up. The surgical time, frequency of complications, and number of hardware problems significantly decreased after the first 30 cases. As such, surgeons should be aware of the elevated potential for complications and recurrence early in the learning curve-serious intraoperative complications are important risk factors for recurrence.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III. Therapeutic study: case-control study.

Editorial Commentary: Arthroscopic Latarjet: An Analysis of Outcomes and Complications Through its Learning Curve

The arthroscopic Latarjet has been proposed in the past decade to reduce the rate of bone block malpositioning, decrease soft-tissue damage associated with open approach, and possibly decrease intraoperative complications. Several recent studies have reported similar or even superior results with arthroscopic Latarjet compared with those achieved with open technique. However, arthroscopic Latarjet is known to be more technically demanding and some feel that it should be performed by expert shoulder surgeons with advanced arthroscopic skills. Surgical innovations should be adopted when they have potential advantages for patients. Despite the initial challenges and learning curve of arthroscopic Latarjet, experience and technical skills may reduce the rate of intraoperative complications for this technically demanding procedure.