Return to Play Following Shoulder Stabilization: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Cross-education effects on shoulder rotator muscle strength and function after shoulder stabilization surgery: a randomized controlled trial

HYPOTHESIS

This study aimed to investigate the effects of cross education (CE) on rotator cuff (RC) muscle strength recovery and shoulder function in patients who underwent arthroscopic anterior shoulder stabilization surgery.

METHODS

Twenty-eight patients who underwent shoulder stabilization surgery were included in the study (age, 25 ± 6 years; body mass index, 24.8 ± 3.6 kg/m2). The patients were randomly divided into either the CE group (n = 14) or the control group (n = 14). All patients received a standardized rehabilitation program until the end of the 12th postoperative week. The CE group also received isokinetic training of the nonoperative shoulder focusing on the RC muscles (twice a week, 3 sets of 10 repetitions). RC muscle strength was measured preoperatively and at 3 and 6 months postoperatively using an isokinetic dynamometer at 60°/s and 180°/s angular velocities. Shoulder function was assessed with the Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test and Y-Balance Test-Upper Quarter. Analyses of covariance were used for the statistical analyses.

RESULTS

At 6 months postoperatively, at 60°/s angular velocity, there was higher internal rotator strength in the CE group (P = .02) and similar external rotator strength (P = .62) between the groups. At 180°/s angular velocity, both internal rotator strength (P = .04) and external rotator strength (P = .02) were higher in the CE group. The Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test (P = .47), Y-Balance Test-Upper Quarter (P = .95), and Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (P = .12) scores were similar between the groups at 6 months after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

CE in the early period of postoperative rehabilitation following stabilization surgery improves RC strength recovery. However, it has no effect on functional outcomes. Integrating a CE program into the postoperative rehabilitation protocol may help to improve dynamic shoulder stability but not functional capacity.

High Rates of Return to Play and Low Recurrence Rate After Arthroscopic Latarjet Procedure for Anterior Shoulder Instability in Rugby Players

Purpose

To analyze the rate of return to play, changes in athletic level, and recurrence rate and to report subjective outcomes in a series of rugby players with anterior shoulder instability who underwent an arthroscopic Latarjet procedure.

Methods

A multicenter retrospective study done in 2 centers on rugby players who were operated on between January 2011 and December 2020 was performed. Rugby players who underwent arthroscopic Latarjet procedure for anterior shoulder stabilization with a minimum follow-up period of 2 years were included. Rugby players were grouped according to their competitive level in their country (recreational, regional, national, and international). Data collected included return to sport after surgery, time to return to rugby, athletic level before and after surgery, patient satisfaction, and subjective scores. Recurrence and apprehension rates were also evaluated.

Results

A total of 73 subjects were included. Mean age at time of surgery was 23 ± 5 years. Mean duration of follow-up was 5 ± 2.6 years. Eighty-four percent of rugby players returned to rugby within a mean period of 6.6 months. Initial athletic level was a significant factor (P = .012) for not returning to sport, with 67% of patients who initially played at a recreational level not returning to rugby and 33% of patients who initially played at a regional league level not returning. All national and international players returned to play. Of the 12 non-returning rugby players, only 30% did not return because of their shoulder. Mean Subjective Shoulder Value was 90 ± 9%. Recurrence rate was 7%.

Conclusions

Arthroscopic Latarjet procedure proved its efficacy in managing recurrent anterior shoulder instability in rugby players. Return to play was achieved in almost all cases, with low recurrence rates. Despite high global return to the same level of sport, the higher the level of competition, the harder it is for rugby players to resume sport at the same level.

Level of Evidence

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Long-term outcomes of anterior shoulder instability treated with open latarjet procedure - a systematic review of outcomes at a minimum 15-year follow-up

Background

To systematically review the literature to evaluate the outcomes following an open Latarjet (OL) procedure at a minimum 15-year follow-up.

Methods

Two independent reviewers performed a literature search using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines using 3 databases. Only studies reporting outcomes of OL procedure with a minimum of 15 years of follow-up were included.

Results

Nine studies composed of 326 shoulders (78.2% males) in 313 patients were included (average age 26.9 ± 3.2 years (15-58)), with a mean follow-up of 271.9 ± 69.2 months (180-420) At a minimum 15-year follow-up, 93.5% (286 of 306) patients reported being satisfied with their OL procedure, whilst 86.8% (177 of 204) reported good/excellent outcomes at final follow-up. All nine of the included studies reported an overall rate of recurrent instability was 7.7%, with re-dislocations and subluxation at 3.4% and 5.8%, respectively. The rate of surgical revision was 5.15%; 3.5% of cases were revised for recurrent instability. Instability arthropathy was reported across all included studies as 41.0%.

Conclusion

The OL procedure results in satisfactory clinical outcomes, low rates of recurrent instability and surgical revision at a minimum 15-year follow-up. Although high levels of radiological instability arthropathy and residual pain are found over the same period, these appear stable from a minimum of 10-year follow-up data.

Level of Evidence

IV; a systematic review of all levels of evidence.

Substantial influence of psychological factors on return to sports after anterior shoulder instability surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to (1) determine the proportion of patients who underwent anterior shoulder instability surgery and did not return to sports for psychological reasons and (2) estimate differences in psychological readiness scores between patients who did and did not return to sports.

METHODS

The EBSCOhost/SPORTDiscus, PubMed/Medline, Scopus, EMBASE and Cochrane Library databases were searched for relevant studies. The data synthesis included the proportion of patients who did not return to sports for psychological reasons and the mean differences in the psychological readiness of athletes who returned and those who did not return to sports. Non-binomial data were analysed using the inverse-variance approach and expressed as the mean difference with 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

The search yielded 700 records, of which 13 (1093 patients) were included. Fourteen psychological factors were identified as potential causes for not returning to sports. The rates of return to sports at any level or to the preinjury level were 79.3% and 61.9%, respectively. A total of 55.9% of the patients cited psychological factors as the primary reason for not returning to sports. The pooled estimate showed that patients who returned to sports had a significantly higher Shoulder Instability-Return to Sport After Injury score (P < 0.00001) than those who did not, with a mean difference of 30.24 (95% CI 24.95-35.53; I2 = 0%; n.s.).

CONCLUSIONS

Psychological factors have a substantial impact on the rate of return to sports after anterior shoulder instability surgery. Patients who returned to sports had significantly higher psychological readiness than those who did not return to sports. Based on these results, healthcare professionals should include psychological and functional measurements when assessing athletes' readiness to return to sports.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Reliability of Upper Extremity Functional Performance Tests for Overhead Sports Activities

Background

There is lack of consensus on which tests, particularly upper extremity functional performance tests (FPT) that should be used for clinical decision making to progress a patient through a rehabilitation program or criteria for return to sport (RTS). Consequently, there is a need for tests with good psychometric properties that can be administered with minimal equipment and time.

Purpose

(1) To establish the intersession reliability of several open kinetic chain FPT in healthy young adults with a history of overhead sport participation. (2) To examine the intersession reliability of the limb symmetry indices (LSI) from each test.

Study Design

Test-retest reliability, single cohort study.

Methods

Forty adults (20 males, 20 females) completed four upper extremity FPT during two data collection sessions three to seven days apart: 1) prone medicine ball drop test 90°shoulder abduction (PMBDT 90°), 2) prone medicine ball drop test 90°shoulder abduction/90° elbow flexion (PMBDT 90°-90°), 3) half-kneeling medicine ball rebound test (HKMBRT), 4) seated single arm shot put test (SSASPT). Measures of systematic bias, absolute reliability and relative reliability were computed between the sessions for both the original test scores and LSI.

Results

Except for the SSASPT, all tests demonstrated significant (p ≤ 0.030) improvements in performance during the second session. Generally, for the medicine ball drop/rebound tests, the absolute reliability was the highest (less random error) for the HKMBRT, next the PMBDT 90°followed by PMBDT 90°-90°. Excellent relative reliability existed for the PMBDT 90°, HKMBRT, and SSASPT, whereas fair to excellent relative reliability for the PMBDT 90°-90°. The SSASPT LSI revealed the highest relative and absolute reliability.

Conclusion

Two tests, HKMBRT and SSASPT demonstrated sufficient reliability; therefore, the authors' recommend those tests can be used for serial assessments to advance a patient through a rehabilitation program as well as criteria for progression to RTS.

Level of Evidence

3.

Return to Preinjury-Level Sports After Arthroscopic Latarjet for Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Instability in Professional Athletes

Background

The Latarjet procedure is recommended to treat recurrent anterior shoulder instability with glenoid bone loss. Longer return-to-sport (RTS) times have been reported after the open Latarjet when compared with the arthroscopic Latarjet.

Purpose

To assess the clinical outcomes and RTS in athletes who underwent an arthroscopic Latarjet.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

This study included 46 professional athletes with recurrent anterior shoulder instability who underwent an arthroscopic Latarjet between 2010 and 2016. Patients were divided by type of sport: noncollision and nonoverhead (n = 22), collision and martial arts (n = 13), and overhead (n = 11). Sport activity was evaluated with the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic (KJOC) score, Subjective Patient Outcome for Return to Sports score, and RTS time. Clinical results were evaluated by Constant-Murley score, Walch-Duplay score, and range of external and internal rotation. Complication rates, recurrence of shoulder instability, and number of revision procedures were recorded. Correlation tests were used to assess the relationship between measured parameters.

Results

The mean ± SD patient age was 27.1 ± 7.3 years, and the mean follow-up was 50.7 ± 18 months. Overall, 44 patients (95.7%) returned to their previously practiced sports, and 40 (87%) returned to their preinjury levels. The RTS time was 5 ± 1.4 months, with no significant difference among sport types. KJOC and Subjective Patient Outcome for Return to Sports scores were 95.2 ± 5.6 and 9.5 ± 1, respectively. Significant pre- to postoperative improvement was seen on the Constant-Murley score (from 54.3 ± 9.4 to 87.9 ± 8.2; P = .001) and Walch-Duplay score (from 53.7 ± 7.3 to 88.1 ± 10.7; P = .001). Mean postoperative external and internal rotation was 72.8° ± 18.6° and 81.3° ± 11.3°. Procedure-related complications occurred in 10 patients (21.7%); recurrence of shoulder instability was observed in 4 (8.7%); and 4 (8.7%) underwent revision surgery. A worse Walch-Duplay score was significantly associated with longer RTS time (r = -0.39; P = .019) and lower KJOC score (r = 0.29; P = .03).

Conclusion

There was a 95.7% RTS rate after the arthroscopic Latarjet procedure, although the procedure was not free from complications.

Open Latarjet Versus Arthroscopic Bankart Repair for the Treatment of Traumatic Anterior Shoulder Instability in High-Demand Patients With Minimal Glenoid Bone Loss

BACKGROUND

This study compared the clinical outcomes and return to sports/work between open Latarjet and arthroscopic Bankart repair in high-demand patients with traumatic anterior shoulder instability with minimal glenoid bone loss.

METHODS

We prospectively recruited 30 patients and randomised them to either open Latarjet or arthroscopic Bankart. The mean duration of follow-up in our study was 13.27 months±2.70. All patients were males with a mean age at surgery of 28.6 years (range, 18-41 years).

RESULTS

The overall mean for the Rowe score in the 30 patients increased from 33.5±14 points preoperatively to 79.6±18 points. However, there was no statistically significant difference in the postoperative ROM (range of motion) and Rowe score among the Bankart and Latarjet groups. The main finding in our study was the time to return to sports/work which was significantly lower in the Latarjet group (5.2 months) compared to the Bankart group (seven months).

CONCLUSIONS

Open Latarjet is considered a more invasive and non-anatomical procedure, however, it is less costly with a shorter time to return to sports/work compared to the Bankart procedure, which is very crucial for high-demand patients, especially the competitive athletes targeting an early return to sports at the same pre-injury level with minimal incidence of recurrence, making the surgeon's choice very challenging.

Functional results and return to sports on recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability. Influence of the COVID-19 pandemic; Comparative retrospective study and short-term results

AIMS

Our objective is to compare the functional results in patients that underwent surgery for recurrent anterior shoulder instability (RAGHI) during the COVID-19 pandemic with remotely-based rehabilitation, to those who had surgery before the pandemic and had in-person rehabilitation therapy.

METHODS

A retrospective case series of 68 patients were included and divided into two groups: In person-group and Home-based group. Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) and Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV) scores were used to evaluate objective and subjective clinical parameters. Time and level of return to sports was studied by the Subjective Patient Outcome for Return to Sports (SPORTS) score.

RESULTS

The mean SSV score was 82% (40-100) on the In-Person group compared with 87% (65-100) for the Home-Based group. Results for WOSI score were similar, with an average of 210.42 (90%) for In-Person and 261.45 (88%) for the Home-Based group (p 0.12). Return to sports was carried out in an average of 6.6 (4-16) months for In-Person group, compared to 6.5 (5-8) months for Home-Based.

CONCLUSION

Follow-up and rehabilitation methods for patients who underwent surgery for RAGHI, during COVID-19 lockdown, were not significantly (p 0.12) affected on functional and athletic return in comparison to traditional methods according to WOSI scale.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV Retrospective series of cases.

Relationship of the SIRSI Score to Return to Sports After Surgical Stabilization of Glenohumeral Instability

BACKGROUND

Literature is scarce regarding the influence of psychological readiness on return to sports after shoulder instability surgery.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the predictive ability of the Shoulder Instability-Return to Sport after Injury (SIRSI) score in measuring the effect of psychological readiness on return to sports and to compare it between athletes who returned to sports and athletes who did not return to sports.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

A prospective analysis was performed of patients who underwent an arthroscopic Bankart repair or a Latarjet procedure between January 2019 and September 2020. Psychological readiness to return to play was evaluated using the SIRSI instrument. Preoperative and postoperative functional outcomes were measured by the Rowe, Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System, and Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index scores. The predictive validity of the SIRSI was assessed by the use of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve statistics. The Youden index was calculated and used to determine a SIRSI score cutoff point that best discriminated psychological readiness to return to sports. A logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of psychological readiness on return to sports and return to preinjury sports level.

RESULTS

A total of 104 patients were included in this study. Overall, 79% returned to sports. The SIRSI had excellent predictive ability for return-to-sport outcomes (return to sports: area under ROC curve, 0.87 [95% CI, 0.80-0.93]; return to preinjury sports level: area under ROC curve, 0.96; [95% CI, 0.8-0.9]). A cutoff level of ≥55 was used to determine whether an athlete was psychologically ready to return to sports and to return to preinjury sports level (Youden index, 0.7 and 0.9, respectively). Of those who returned to sports, 76.8% were psychologically ready to return to play, with a median SIRSI score of 65 (interquartile range, 57-80). In comparison, in the group that did not return to sports, only 4.5% achieved psychological readiness with a median SIRSI score of 38.5 (interquartile range, 35-41) (P < .001). Regression analysis for the effect of SIRSI score on return to sports was performed. For every 10-point increase in the SIRSI score, the odds of returning to sports increased by 2.9 times. Moreover, those who did not achieve their preinjury sports level showed poorer psychological readiness to return to play and SIRSI score results.

CONCLUSION

The SIRSI was a useful tool for predicting whether patients were psychologically ready to return to sports after glenohumeral stabilization surgery. Patients who returned to sports and those who returned to their preinjury sports level were significantly more psychologically ready than those who did not return. Therefore, we believe that the SIRSI score should be considered along with other criteria that are used to decide whether the patient is ready to return to sports.

Arthroscopic Latarjet Procedure Does Not Lead to Loss of Clinically Significant External Rotation at 0° and 90° of Shoulder Abduction

Background

Several reports have shown that shoulder stabilizing procedures lead to postoperative external rotation (ER) deficits. However, no study on arthroscopic Latarjet procedures has investigated the effect on ER when the arm is abducted at 0° (ER₀) and 90° (ER₉₀). This study examined the relationship between the arthroscopic Latarjet procedure and the subsequent effect on ER₀ and ER₉₀.

Methods

Patients who underwent an arthroscopic Latarjet procedure from December 2015 to April 2021 were retrospectively evaluated. Preoperative ER₀ and ER₉₀ values were obtained from the contralateral shoulder. ER₀ and ER₉₀ values from the operative side were collected at both 3 and 6 months postoperatively. A repeated measures ANOVA was performed to assess the mean preoperative and postoperative values.

Results

Forty-six patients met the inclusion criteria. Mean ER₀ for the 3- and 6-month time frames measured 44.2° and 54.6°, respectively. Mean ER₉₀ for the 3- and 6-month time frames measured 78.4° and 90.4°, respectively. Comparison to the contralateral arm at the 3-month follow-up period showed a deficit of 14.9° (P = .0001) and 17.2° (P = .0001) for ER₀ and ER₉₀, respectively. At the 6-month follow-up period, patients demonstrated an average decline in ER₀ and ER₉₀ of 4.57° (P = .063) and 5.11° (P = .008), respectively.

Conclusion

A nominal deficit in ER occurred for both ER₀ and ER₉₀ status post arthroscopic Latarjet procedure. Despite loss of ER₉₀ at 6 months achieving statistical significance, the clinical impact is arguably inconsequential. Such limited loss of ER provides more information regarding bony procedures being a more definitive treatment for glenohumeral instability and the ability to restore native motion.

The playing position significantly influences return to sports and recurrences after an arthroscopic Bankart repair in competitive rugby players

BACKGROUND

The purpose of our study was to investigate the influence of the different rugby playing positions on return to sports, functional outcomes, and recurrences after an arthroscopic Bankart repair.

METHODS

A total of 88 rugby players were treated for anterior shoulder instability in our institution between 2010 and 2018. Functional outcomes, return to sports, recurrences, complications, and revisions rates were evaluated according to the playing position.

RESULTS

Overall, 73.8% of the patients returned to rugby and 60% returned at the same level as before the injury. The tight forwards and outside backs experienced a significant decrease in their competitive level after surgery, and showed the lowest functional outcomes. The tight forwards and outside backs showed a statistically significant increase in recurrence and revision rates, and an OR for recurrence of 12.8 and 9.6, respectively.

DISCUSSION

The playing position significantly influenced return to sports and recurrences after an arthroscopic Bankart repair in competitive rugby players. Specifically, the tight forwards and outside backs have returned to a lower level than they had before surgery, showed the lowest functional outcomes, and a significant increase in recurrences and revisions rates than the other groups.

Effect of Preoperative MRI Coracoid Dimensions on Postoperative Outcomes of Latarjet Treatment for Anterior Shoulder Instability

Background:

Preoperative coracoid dimensions may affect the size of the bone graft transferred to the glenoid rim and thus the postoperative outcomes of Latarjet coracoid transfer.

Purpose:

To determine the effect of coracoid length and width as measured on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on outcomes after Latarjet treatment of anterior shoulder instability.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Included were patients who underwent primary Latarjet surgery between 2009 and 2019 and had preoperative MRI scans and minimum 2-year postoperative outcomes. Longitudinal coracoid length was measured on axial MRI sequences as the distance from the coracoclavicular ligament insertion to the distal tip. Comparisons were made between shorter and longer coracoids and between narrower and wider coracoids. The outcomes of interest were recurrent instability, reoperation, complications, return to sport (RTS), and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score. Independent-samples t test, Mann-Whitney test, chi-square test, and Fisher exact test were used to compare outcomes between groups, and univariate correlation coefficients were calculated to evaluate the relationships between demographics and coracoid dimensions.

Results:

Overall, 56 patients were included (mean age, 28.4 years). The mean ± SD coracoid length was 21.6 ± 2.4 mm and width 10.0 ± 1.0 mm. Relative to patients with a longer coracoid (≥22 mm; n = 26), patients with a shorter coracoid (<22 mm; n = 30) had similar rates of recurrent instability (shorter vs longer; 6.7% vs 3.8%), complications (10.0% vs 15.4%), reoperation (3.3% vs 7.7%), and RTS (76.5% vs 58.8%) and similar postoperative ASES scores (85.0 vs 81.6) ( P ≥ .05 for all). Likewise, relative to patients with a wider coracoid (≥10 mm; n = 27), patients with a narrower coracoid (<10 mm; n = 29) had similar prevalences of recurrent instability (narrower vs wider; 6.9% vs 3.7%), complications (17.2% vs 7.4%), reoperation (3.5% vs 7.4%), and RTS (66.7% vs 68.4%) and similar postoperative ASES scores (87.1 vs 80.0) ( P ≥ .05 for all).

Conclusion:

Patients undergoing Latarjet coracoid transfer had similar postoperative outcomes regardless of preoperative coracoid dimensions. These findings should be confirmed in a larger cohort before further clinical recommendations are made.

Return to sports, functional outcomes, and recurrences after arthroscopic Bankart repair in soccer players

BACKGROUND

There is a shortage of relevant reports about the results obtained after shoulder stabilization in soccer players. Therefore, this retrospective study aims to report return to sports, functional outcomes, and recurrences after arthroscopic Bankart repair in soccer players.

METHODS

A total of 156 soccer players were treated for anterior shoulder instability at a single institution between 2008 and 2017. The Rowe score and Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System were used to assess functional outcomes. Return to sport and recurrence rates were also evaluated.

RESULTS

The Rowe and Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System scores showed statistical improvement after surgery (P < .001). Overall, 148 soccer players (94.8%) returned to sports, and 122 (78.2%) returned to the same level. The mean time to return to sport was 4.8 months. The recurrence rate was 5.2%.

DISCUSSION

Soccer players who underwent an arthroscopic isolated Bankart repair for anterior glenohumeral instability have shown remarkable outcomes, with most of the patients returning to sports, and at the same level they had before surgery with a low rate of recurrence.

Postoperative recovery comparisons of arthroscopic Bankart to open Latarjet for the treatment of anterior glenohumeral instability

BACKGROUND

Recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability is a disabling pathology that can be successfully treated by arthroscopic Bankart repair or open Latarjet. However, there is a paucity of studies comparing the postoperative recovery. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the postoperative pain and functional recovery following arthroscopic Bankart versus open Latarjet.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of a multicenter prospective outcomes registry database. Postoperative recovery outcomes of either a primary or revision arthroscopic Bankart and open Latarjet procedures were compared. A minimum of 1-year follow-up was required. Outcomes measures included pain visual analog scale (VAS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) function score, ASES index score, and single assessment numeric evaluation (SANE) score. Overall, 787 patients underwent primary arthroscopic Bankart, 36 underwent revision arthroscopic Bankart and 75 underwent an open Latarjet procedure.

RESULTS

When compared to primary arthroscopic Bankart, open Latarjet demonstrated significantly lower VAS scores at 6 weeks (p = 0.03), 3 months (p = 0.01), and 2 years (p < 0.05). Medium-term outcomes for ASES scores and SANE score, at 1 and 2 years showed no difference. Latarjet demonstrated significantly lower (p < 0.05) preoperative early postoperative VAS pain scores with no difference at 1 year or 2 years when compared to primary Bankart. There was no difference in ASES function or index between Bankart and Latarjet. Revision Bankart provided inferior outcomes for VAS, ASES function, and ASES index when compared to primary Bankart and Latarjet at 1 year and 2 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Primary arthroscopic Bankart repair and open Latarjet provided nearly equivalent improvements in pain (VAS) and functional outcomes (ASES, SANE, VR-12) during the early recovery phase (2 years). This study supports the use of either procedure in the primary treatment of anterior glenohumeral instability. Revision arthroscopic Bankart repair demonstrated deteriorating outcomes at 1 and 2 years postoperatively.

Factors That Influence the Return to Sport After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair for Glenohumeral Instability

Numerous studies have reported high rates of return to sports following arthroscopic Bankart repair (ABR) However, there is enormous controversy regarding the optimal management of these patients in the postoperative period. Controversy issues include rehabilitation, criteria for returning to sports, and the specific management of each athlete according to the sport they practice. Even though there are several rehabilitation protocols published in the literature, wide variability exists concerning the key elements of rehabilitation after an ABR. Regarding criteria for return to sports, there is a wide variation across the different published studies. The type of sports has been shown to affect an athlete’s decision to return to sports. Nevertheless, most research is evaluated by classifications that cluster different sports into categories that may have other influences in return to sports when analyzed separately. Finally, in addition to physical readiness, the athlete’s psychological state is crucial for returning to sports. However, the contribution of psychological readiness to an athlete’s return to sports after shoulder instability surgery remains uncertain and unexplored.

High Rate of Return to Work by 3 Months Following Latarjet for Anterior Shoulder Instability

PURPOSE

To evaluate the rate and duration of return to work in patients undergoing Latarjet for failed soft-tissue stabilization or glenoid bone loss.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing Latarjet from 2005 to 2015 at our institution were retrospectively reviewed at a minimum of 2 years postoperatively. Patients completed a standardized and validated work questionnaire, Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index Survey, and a satisfaction survey.

RESULTS

Of 89 eligible patients who had Latarjet, 67 patients (75.3%) responded to the questionnaire, of whom 51 patients (76.1%) were employed within 3 years before surgery (mean age: 29.9 ± 11.8 years; mean follow-up: 54.6 ± 11.9 months) and had an average glenoid bone loss of 14.5 ± 6.1%. Fifty patients (98.0%) returned to work by 2.7 ± 3.0 months postoperatively; 45 patients (88.2%) patients returned to the same level of occupational intensity. Those who held sedentary, light, moderate, or heavy intensity occupations returned to their previous occupation at a rate of 100.0%, 93.3%, 90.0%, and 66.7% (P = .2) at a duration of 1.2 ± 1.6 months, 1.8 ± 1.9 months, 3.1 ± 3.5 months, and 6.5 ± 4.1 months (P = .001), respectively. The average postoperative Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index score was 70.9 ± 34.2. Fifty patients (98.0%) noted at least "a little improvement" in their quality of life following surgery, with 35 patients (68.6%) noting great improvement. Furthermore, 49 patients (96.1%) reported being satisfied with their procedure, with 25 patients (49.0%) reporting being very satisfied. Four patients (7.8%) returned to the operating room, with 1 patient (2.0%) requiring arthroscopic shoulder stabilization.

CONCLUSIONS

Approximately 98% of patients who underwent Latarjet returned to work by 2.7 ± 3.0 months postoperatively. Patients with greater-intensity occupations had a longer duration of absence before returning to their preoperative level of occupational intensity. Information regarding return to work is imperative in preoperative patient consultation to manage expectations.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, case series.

Combined Double-Pulley Remplissage and Bankart Repair

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

Clinical outcomes of revision arthroscopic Bankart repair for anterior shoulder instability: a systematic review of studies

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to review the literature to ascertain the functional outcomes, recurrence rates, and subsequent revision rates following revision arthroscopic Bankart repair.

METHODS

Two independent reviewers performed a literature search based on PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines using the Embase, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library databases. Studies in which arthroscopic Bankart repair was performed as a revision procedure were included. The clinical outcomes extracted and analyzed were functional outcomes, return to play, and recurrent instability.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies with 433 patients met the inclusion criteria. The majority of patients were male patients (63.7%); the average age was 26.1 years (range, 14-58 years), and the mean follow-up period was 37.6 months (range, 10-144 months). The mean Rowe score was 84.2, and 79.7% of patients had good to excellent outcomes. The rate of return to play was 78.5%, with 47.5% of patients returning to their preinjury level of play across 10 studies. The rate of recurrent instability was reported in 12 studies, with 328 shoulders demonstrating 86 instability events (26.2%). The rate of recurrent instability due to dislocation was reported in 7 studies (n = 176), with 19 events (10.8%), whereas the rate of subluxation was reported in 4 studies (n = 76), with 6 events (7.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

Revision arthroscopic Bankart repair for anterior shoulder instability was shown to result in a high rate of recurrent shoulder instability. There was a relatively poor rate of return to sport among athletes, and only about half of the patients were able to return at or above their preoperative level of ability.

Lived Experiences of an Elite Performance Management Team Through Injury Rehabilitation: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

OBJECTIVES

Injury is a common and challenging experience for many athletes, and return-to-sport outcomes have been persistently poor despite advancements in research and practice. To ameliorate this challenge and to bridge a gap that exists in the sport injury literature between theoretical conceptualization and intervention design, research is needed to explore team-based approaches to professional practice. The current study aimed to begin this work through exploration of a single performance management team (PMT) through 2 injury and rehabilitation cases leading into and across the 2014 Olympic Winter Games.

DESIGN

Qualitative, interpretative phenomenological analysis.

METHOD

Interviews were conducted with the 5 members of the PMT (coach, physiotherapist, sport psychology consultant, case manager, and athlete) involved in both injury cases. Lower-order and higher order themes were identified and interpreted through the extent literature.

RESULTS

Results indicate that 3 higher order themes interacted to impact the lived experiences of the PMT members across the 2 injury cases. Participants described the sociocultural context that surrounded the team, the individual struggles they faced, and the functioning of the team as the primary contributors to their lived experiences as well as observed rehabilitation outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings of this study mirror previous research in team science within the general health care domain, and prompt ongoing exploration of how to improve the experiences for PMT members as well as rehabilitation and return-to-sport outcomes for athletes.

Arthroscopic Bankart Repair for Primary Versus Recurrent Anterior Instability in Athletes Results in Excellent Clinical Outcomes, High Rates of Return to Play, and Low Recurrence Rates

Purpose

To compare the outcomes of athletes who have been treated for either primary or recurrent anterior shoulder instability with arthroscopic Bankart repair (ABR).

Methods

A retrospective review of patients who underwent ABR for anterior shoulder instability, with a minimum of 24 months’ follow-up, was performed. Those who underwent ABR for primary instability were matched in a 1:1 ratio for age, sex, sport, and level of preoperative play to those who underwent ABR for recurrent instability. The rate, level, and timing of return to play (RTP), as well as the Shoulder Instability–Return to Sport After Injury score, were evaluated. Additionally, the recurrence rate, visual analog scale score, Subjective Shoulder Value, Rowe score, satisfaction, and whether patients would undergo the same operation again were compared.

Results

After analysis of 467 patients, 100 athletes who underwent ABR for primary instability were identified and subsequently pair matched to 100 patients who underwent ABR for recurrent instability, with a mean age of 27.2 years, 87% male patients, 68% collision athletes, and a mean follow-up period of 61.9 months. There was no significant difference between the groups in the rate of RTP (80% vs 79%, P = .86) or RTP at the preinjury level (65% vs 65%, P >. 999); however, there was a significant difference in time to RTP (6.9 ± 2.9 months vs 5.9 ± 2.5 months, P = .02). There were no significant differences in visual analog scale score, Shoulder Instability–Return to Sport After Injury score, Subjective Shoulder Value, Rowe score, patient satisfaction, and whether patients would undergo the operation again (P > .05 for all). There was no difference in the rate of recurrent instability after ABR (10% vs 16%, P = .29).

Conclusions

ABR results in excellent clinical outcomes, high rates of RTP, and low recurrence rates for both athletes with primary instability and those with recurrent instability.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective comparative cohort study.

Pharmacological Treatment for Acute Traumatic Musculoskeletal Pain in Athletes

Pain management is a crucial issue for athletes who train and compete at the highest performance levels. There are still evidence gaps for the use of analgesics for sports injuries despite the growing interest in training and competition settings. However, high-quality research is needed to determine the most appropriate and optimal timing and formulations in non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug and opioid management, particularly given the strictness of anti-doping regulations. Indeed, the role of pharmacological therapy in reducing acute traumatic pain in athletes should still be addressed to minimize the timing of return to sport. Therefore, the aim of this comprehensive review was to summarize the current evidence about pain management in the setting of acute injury in elite athletes, providing the most informed strategy for pain relief and performance recovery.

Return to play protocols for musculoskeletal upper and lower limb injuries in tackle-collision team sports: A systematic review

Athletes in tackle-collision teams are at high risk of musculoskeletal injuries resulting in absence from play due to the high impact nature of the sport. There is a paucity of research to guide the management and assessment methods needed to facilitate the return to play (RTP) process. This review aimed to describe, synthesise and evaluate RTP protocols implemented for musculoskeletal injuries in tackle-collision teams. A systematic search of Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science and Ebsco Host was conducted for RTP management protocols and assessment modalities following upper and lower limb musculoskeletal injuries in tackle-collision team athletes. Prospective and retrospective quantitative controlled trials, cohort, case-control, case-series and cross-sectional observation studies published between January 2000 and March 2020 were considered. The main outcome measures were the proportion of athletes to RTP, associated time-loss and reinjury risk. 5265 articles were screened. 34 studies met the eligibility criteria of which 23 involved management and 11 assessment modalities. Management involved surgical or conservative strategies along with exercise-based rehabilitation. Assessment modalities included radiographic assessment, clinical evaluation and subjective ratings. Promising RTP management included progressive weight-bearing and exercised-based rehabilitation for ankle sprains as well as surgery, the use of a sling and exercise-based rehabilitation for shoulder instability. MRI scans showed promise in predicting time-loss following hamstring and calf strains in tackle-collision athletes. There are currently no clear guidelines for RTP after musculoskeletal injuries in tackle-collision sports. Future research should investigate efficient management strategies evaluated through valid and reliable assessment methods to better guide clinicians.

Return-to-Sport Criteria After Upper Extremity Surgery in Athletes-A Scoping Review, Part 1: Rotator Cuff and Shoulder Stabilization Procedures

Background:

Standardized criteria are lacking to guide patient return to sport (RTS) after rotator cuff surgery (RCS) or shoulder stabilization surgery (SSS).

Purpose:

To describe RTS criteria used after RCS and SSS in athletic populations.

Study Design:

Scoping review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This scoping review was based on the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses–Scoping Review) guidelines. A total of 5 electronic databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, Embase, Google Scholar Advanced search) and the gray literature were searched for English-language studies that reported at least 1 RTS criterion in athletes after shoulder surgery. Studies were assigned to the RCS or SSS subgroup based on the primary procedure performed. Data were extracted and summarized as frequencies or arithmetic mean and standard deviation.

Results:

Included were 52 studies and 2706 athletes (2206 male, 500 female, with a mean age of 28.8 ± 1.8 years). The RCS group consisted of 14 studies and the SSS group consisted of 38 studies. Time from surgery was the most common RTS criterion reported overall (37/52 studies; 71%) as well as within the RCS (93%) and SSS (63%) subgroups. Muscle strength (25/52 studies; 48%) and range of motion (23/52; 44%) were used by almost half of the included articles. RTS criteria reported less often were absence of pain, successful completion of sport-specific or position-specific test, proprioception, radiographic evaluation, patient-surgeon agreement, minimum time required to participate in pain-free throwing, and satisfactory scapulothoracic mechanics. All studies used 1 to 3 of the above RTS criteria; however, the definition of each criterion differed among the included articles.

Conclusion:

Time from surgery was the most commonly reported RTS criterion after RCS or SSS in athletes, whereas muscle strength and range of motion were used by almost half of the articles. There was high heterogeneity in the definition of each RTS criterion used among the included studies, which also used different combinations of 1 to 3 RTS criteria. These results suggest the need to better define quantitative and qualitative RTS criteria in athletes undergoing rotator cuff and shoulder stabilization procedures in order to safely return athletes to sport.

Outcomes After Arthroscopic Anterior Shoulder Stabilization in Professional Handball Players

Background:

Although numerous studies have reported on the redislocation rate and functional results of arthroscopic treatment for anterior shoulder instability in athletes, they have not disclosed outcomes in the high-risk group of elite handball players.

Purpose:

To investigate the postoperative outcomes of arthroscopic treatment for anterior shoulder instability as well as the return-to-sport (RTS) rate in professional handball players.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Involved in this study were 44 competitive handball players (47 shoulders) who underwent arthroscopic anterior capsulolabral reconstruction between 2010 and 2018 and had a minimum follow-up of 24 months. After surgery, patients completed a questionnaire that collected Rowe and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores and RTS data, and we compared these results with their preoperative scores. We also compared results according to the following subgroups: true dislocations versus recurrent subluxations, younger (<20 years) versus older (≥20 years) age, male versus female sex, and shorter versus longer duration of instability. Statistical analysis included the paired-samples t test and nonparametric Fisher exact test.

Results:

The mean follow-up period was 52.2 ± 21.4 months. There were 4 shoulders (9%) with recurrent instability. There were significant preoperative to postoperative improvements in the mean Rowe score (from 45.2 to 91.8) and mean ASES score (from 70.6 to 95.7) (P < .001 for both). Overall, the RTS rate was 83%, and 64% (30/47 shoulders) were able to return to their preinjury level. The RTS rate was significantly lower in the younger players than in the older players (46% vs 86%, respectively; P = .005).

Conclusion:

The study results indicated that handball players with anterior shoulder instability can be treated using arthroscopic labral reconstruction successfully and 83% of the athletes were able to RTS activity. The handball players aged ≥20 years returned to their preinjury level of sport at a higher rate than did those aged <20 years.

Reasons Why Athletes Do Not Return to Sports After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair: A Comparative Study of 208 Athletes With Minimum 2-Year Follow-up

Background:

There is a lack of information regarding the reasons why patients do not return to sports after an arthroscopic Bankart repair and whether there is a relationship between return to sports and functional outcomes.

Purpose:

To evaluate the reasons why competitive athletes who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair did not return to sports and whether there was a relationship between returning to sports and postoperative outcome scores and complications.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Of 217 competitive athletes who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair for isolated anterior glenohumeral instability between June 2014 and December 2017, a total of 208 athletes (96%) were evaluated at minimum 2-year follow-up. Return to sports, the level of sports achieved, and the time between surgery and return to competition were assessed, and patients who did not return to sports were asked to provide the reasons for cessation. The Rowe score and the Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System (ASOSS) were used to assess functional outcomes. Recurrences, reoperations, and complications were also evaluated.

Results:

The mean patient age was 24 years (range, 18-30 years), and the mean follow-up was 44 months (range, 24-90 months). Of the 208 athletes, 73% were able to return to sports (65% returned to their preinjury level), and 27% did not return to sports. Of those who did not return, the most frequent reasons were fear of reinjury (44%), lack of confidence in their shoulder (12%), and concern about a new rehabilitation process in case of recurrence (10%). The Rowe and ASOSS scores showed significant postoperative improvement in all patients (P < .001), with no significant differences between the 2 study groups at the final follow-up. There were 21 recurrences (10%) and 5 complications (2.4%), and 11 patients (5.3%) underwent revision surgery, with no significant differences in these rates between the groups.

Conclusion:

Of patients who did not return to sports, 74% left for a reason independent of shoulder function, with the most frequent causes being fear of reinjury and a concern about new rehabilitation process. Neither outcome scores nor complications varied significantly between patients who returned and those who did not return to sports.

Type V superior labral anterior-posterior tears results in lower rates of return to play

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the rate of return to play (RTP) in patients who underwent Type V superior labrum anterior-posterior (SLAP) repair compared to patients who underwent isolated Bankart repair in the setting of traumatic anterior shoulder instability.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair and SLAP repair by a single surgeon between 2012 and 2017 was performed. Additionally, these were pair-matched in a 1:2 ratio for age, sex, sport and level of pre-operative play, with those undergoing isolated arthroscopic Bankart repair alone as a control group. RTP, level of RTP and the timing of RTP were assessed.

RESULTS

The study included a total of 96 patients, with 32 in the study group and 64 in the control group, and a mean follow-up of 59 months. Overall, there was no significant difference in the overall rate of return to play (26/32 (81.3%) vs 56/64 (87.5%), n.s), but there was a significantly higher rate of RTP at the same/higher level in the control group (14/32 (43.6%) vs 43/64 (67.2%), p = 0.0463). There was no significant difference in timing of RTP between the groups (n.s). There was no significant difference in recurrent instability (6/32 (18.8%) vs 5/64 (7.8%), n.s) but there was a significant difference in revision rates (5/32 (15.6%) vs. 2/64 (3.1%), p = 0.0392) between the Type V SLAP repair group and the control group.

CONCLUSION

Following arthroscopic repair, patients with Type V SLAP tears had a similar overall rate of RTP when compared directly to a control group of patients who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair alone. However, those who underwent Type V SLAP repair reported significantly lower rates of RTP at the same or higher level compared to the control group.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Arthroscopic bankart repair for the management of anterior shoulder instability: Mid- and long-term results

INTRODUCTION

Arthroscopic stabilisation is a well-recognised surgical technique with a variable rate of failure reported between 0-35%. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of this technique and our second aim was to identify risk factors that could be associated to recurrence rate.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

41 patients that underwent arthroscopic shoulder stabilisation for glenohumeral instability between 2001-2015 were included. Different items such as epidemiologic, recurrence, age at first dislocation, preoperative sport practice, and number of fixation devices used were collected. The results were evaluated using functional scales (WOSI, Rowe y Walch-Duplay) and radiological study was assessed using the Samilson-Prieto score. Data from the medical history were recognised in order to assess possible risk factors.

RESULTS

The overall redislocation rate was 9.4%. The average follow-up was 83 months. The 54.3% of the patients achieved excellent/good results in the functional assessment scales. The range of motion was complete in 90% of the cases. On the radiographs, only 4.88% of the patients present advanced osteoarthritis. It was not possible to identify risk factors related to a worse outcome after surgery.

CONCLUSION

The arthroscopic Bankart repair with suture anchors is considered the gold standard for treatment of anterior glenohumeral instability. The long-term follow-up shows a favourable outcome, with a redislocation rate of 9% and low complication rate.

The Relationship between Kinesiophobia and Return to Sport after Shoulder Surgery for Recurrent Anterior Instability

Purpose  To evaluate the relationship between kinesiophobia and patient's return to sport after shoulder stabilization surgery. The hypothesis was that kinesiophobia represents an independent factor correlated to the difference between preinjury and postoperative level of sport.

Methods  This study retrospectively evaluated 66 patients (mean age: 35.5, standard deviation [SD] = 9.9 years) and at a mean follow-up of 61.1 (SD = 37.5) months after arthroscopic Bankart's repair or open Bristow–Latarjet procedure. Kinesiophobia was assessed with the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK); return to the preinjury sport was assessed by the difference between baseline and postoperative degree of shoulder involvement in sport (D-DOSIS) scale. The Western Ontario Shoulder Instability index (WOSI) was used to evaluate participants' perceptions of shoulder function.

Results  TSK showed correlation with D-DOSIS ( ρ  = 0.505, p <  0.001) and the WOSI score ( ρ  = 0.589, p  < 0.001). There was significant difference in TSK and WOSI scores between participants who had and had not returned to their previous level of sport participation ( p  = 0.006, and 0.0001, respectively).

Conclusion  This study demonstrated that kinesiophobia is correlated to the return to sport after shoulder stabilization surgery.

Level of Evidence  Level IV, retrospective case series.

Recurrence and return to sport after surgery for shoulder instability: arthroscopic Bankart versus Latarjet procedure

Background

Surgeons differ in their preferences concerning the best surgical technique for treating shoulder instability in sportspeople. The purpose was to evaluate the risk of recurrence and the likelihood of return to sport for the 2 principal shoulder stabilization techniques used to treat shoulder instability in sportspeople.

Methods

We screened sportspeople who had undergone shoulder stabilization for inclusion in this cohort study. For eligibility, patients had to have undergone surgery by one of the 2 techniques: Latarjet or arthroscopic Bankart between 2005 and 2011, and aged from 18 to 35 years. We excluded acromioclavicular dislocation, tendinous lesion, global or posterior instability, bone fracture or severe glenoid bone loss, neurological lesion, other surgical technique, and orthopedic treatment. Patients were contacted by telephone between 2009 and 2012 and asked to participate in follow-up after surgery. The primary endpoint was recurrence, evaluated by determining frequency and time to recurrence (or censoring) with Cox models. The secondary endpoint was the return to sport (training and competition).

Results

Follow-up telephone interviews were conducted with 120 sportspeople (response rate of 61.5%), one of whom was excluded due to the occurrence of a new contralateral dislocation before returning to sport after surgery (Latarjet n = 80, Bankart n = 39). The risk of recurrence was significantly higher (P < .001) for Bankart (n = 7, 17.9%) than for Latarjet (n = 2, 2.5%) interventions. Being under the age of 20 years was a significant risk factor for recurrence (P = .007). Return to sport was significantly more frequent among sportspeople undergoing Latarjet procedures, for both training (P = .031) and competition (P = .038), and was also significantly more rapid for training (P = .034) with a mean time to return to training of 5.1 months for Latarjet procedures, versus 6.4 months for Bankart procedures.

Conclusion

The Latarjet surgical technique results in fewer recurrences than the Bankart technique, with a higher rate of return to sport (training, competition) and a faster return to training for sportspeople practicing potentially risky sports in competition. Age was also identified as an additional risk factor for recurrence. It is important to take these factors into account when considering the indications for surgery.

Arthroscopic bankart repair for the management of anterior shoulder instability: Mid- and long- term results

INTRODUCTION

Arthroscopic stabilization is a well-recognized surgical technique with a variable rate of failure reported between 0-35%. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of this technique and our second aim was to identify risk factors that could be associated to recurrence rate.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

41 patients that underwent arthroscopic shoulder stabilization for glenohumeral instability between 2001-2015 were included. Different items such as epidemiologic, recurrence, age at first dislocation, preoperative sport practice, and number of fixation devices used were collected. The results were evaluated using functional scales (WOSI, Rowe y Walch-Duplay) and radiological study was assessed using the Samilson-Prieto score. Data from the medical history were recognized in order to assess possible risk factors.

RESULTS

The overall redislocation rate was 9.4%. The average follow-up was 83 months. The 54.3% of the patients achieved excellent / good results in the functional assessment scales. The range of motion was complete in 90% of the cases. On the radiographs, only 4.88% of the patients present advanced osteoarthritis. It was not possible to identify risk factors related to a worse outcome after surgery.

CONCLUSION

The arthroscopic Bankart repair with suture anchors is considered the gold standard for treatment of anterior glenohumeral instability. The long-term follow-up shows a favorable outcome, with a redislocation rate of 9% and low complication rate.

Recurrence and Revision Rates With Arthroscopic Bankart Repair Compared With the Latarjet Procedure in Competitive Rugby Players With Glenohumeral Instability and a Glenoid Bone Loss <20

BACKGROUND

There is a lack of evidence in the literature comparing outcomes between the arthroscopic Bankart repair and the Latarjet procedure in competitive rugby players with glenohumeral instability and a glenoid bone loss <20%.

PURPOSE

To compare return to sport, functional outcomes, and complications between the arthroscopic Bankart repair and the Latarjet procedure in competitive rugby players with glenohumeral instability and a glenoid bone loss <20%.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

Between June 2010 and February 2018, 130 competitive rugby players with anterior shoulder instability were operated on in our institution. The first 80 patients were operated on with the arthroscopic Bankart procedure and the other 50 with the open Latarjet procedure. Return to sport, range of motion (ROM), the Rowe score, and the Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System (ASOSS) were used to assess functional outcomes. Recurrences, reoperations, and complications were also evaluated.

RESULTS

In the total population, the mean follow-up was 40 months (range, 24-90 months) and the mean age was 24.2 years (range, 16-33 years). Ninety-two percent of patients were able to return to rugby, 88% at their preinjury level of play. Eighty-nine percent of patients in the Bankart group and 87% in the Latarjet group returned to compete at the same level (P = .788). No significant difference in shoulder ROM was found between preoperative and postoperative results. The Rowe and ASOSS scores showed statistical improvement after operation (P < .01). No significant difference in functional scores was found between the groups The Rowe score in the Bankart group increased from a preoperative mean (± SD) of 41 ± 13 points to 89.7 points postoperatively, and in the Latarjet group, from a preoperative mean of 42.5 ± 14 points to 88.4 points postoperatively (P = .95). The ASOSS score in the Bankart group increased from a preoperative mean of 53.3 ± 3 points to 93.3 ± 6 points postoperatively, and in the Latarjet group, from a preoperative mean of 53.1 ± 3 points to 93.7 ± 4 points postoperatively (P = .95). There were 18 recurrences (14%). The rate of recurrence was 20% in the Bankart group and 4% in the Latarjet group (P = .01). There were 15 reoperations (12%). The rate of reoperation was 16% in the Bankart group and 4% in the Latarjet group (P = .03). There were 6 complications (5%). The rate of complications was 4% in the Bankart group and 6% in the Latarjet group (P = .55). The proportion of postoperative osteoarthritis was 10% in the Bankart group (8/80 patients) and 12% (6/50 patients) in the Latarjet group (P = .55).

CONCLUSION

In competitive rugby players with glenohumeral instability and a glenoid bone loss <20%, both the arthroscopic Bankart repair and the Latarjet procedure produced excellent functional outcomes, with most athletes returning to sport at the same level they had before the injury. However, the Bankart procedure was associated with a significantly higher rate of recurrence (20% vs 4%) and reoperation (16% vs 4%) than the Latarjet procedure.

Outcomes of the arthroscopic Bankart procedure in Irish collision sport athletes

BACKGROUND

While there is an abundance of research examining the outcomes of the arthroscopic Bankart repair in collision athletes, very few studies have involved the unique Irish collision sport athlete population. The previously held belief that collision athletes need to be treated with open surgery, due to the high traumatic forces the shoulder is subjected to in these sports, may no longer be true in the context of modern arthroscopic techniques and implants.

AIMS

To report the outcomes of the arthroscopic Bankart procedure in the unique Irish collision athlete population.

METHOD

Retrospective review conducted in 2018. Data was obtained from collision sport athletes using customised questionnaires and validated, standardised outcome measure tools. Participants were selected using inclusion and exclusion criteria.

RESULTS

Fifty-four patients were included in the study. The average age at primary injury was 19.9 years (range 13-35 years). The rate of recurrent dislocation was 21% (12/57) with a mean follow up time of 24 months (range 7 to 48 months). The mean patient reported outcome measure (PROM) scores were as follows: ASES = 90.8, WOSI = 316.4, SSV = 79%. Six patients failed to return to their sport. Eighty-seven percent of the cohort returned to their sport, with a mean time to return of 7.25 months. Patients who experienced recurrent instability after arthroscopic Bankart had a younger age at primary dislocation (P = 0.0005) and lower ASES (P = 0.0056) and WOSI scores (0.00132) at latest follow-up, compared to those who remained stable postsurgery.

CONCLUSION

The arthroscopic Bankart procedure has a high rate of recurrence of dislocation in Irish collision sport athletes. The current international literature suggests that the arthroscopic Bankart has similar rates of recurrence to the open procedure in collision athletes; however, this may not hold true for Irish collision sport athletes. Further research is required to determine the optimum surgical procedure for anterior shoulder instability in this population, particularly those patients with subcritical bone loss.

Return to Play After Arthroscopic Stabilization for Posterior Shoulder Instability-A Systematic Review

Purpose

To ascertain the rate and timing of return to play (RTP) and the availability of specific criteria for safe RTP after arthroscopic posterior shoulder stabilization.

Methods

Medline, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to find studies on arthroscopic posterior shoulder stabilization. Studies were included if they reported RTP data or rehabilitation protocols and excluded if concomitant procedures influenced the rehabilitation protocol. Rate and timing of RTP, along with rehabilitation protocols, were assessed.

Results

This review found 25 studies, including 895 cases, meeting the study’s inclusion criteria. The majority of patients were male (82.7%), with an age range of 14 to 66 years and a follow-up range of 4 to 148.8 months. The overall RTP rate ranged from 62.7% to 100.0%, and 50.0% to 100.0% returned to the same level of play. Among collision athletes, the overall rate of RTP was 80.0% to 100.0%, with 69.2%-100.0% returning to the same level of play. In overhead athletes, the overall rate of RTP was 85.2% to 100.0%, with 55.6% to 100.0% returning to the same level of play. Four studies (128 patients) specifically addressed the timing of RTP, and the range to RTP was 4.3 to 8.6 months. Specific RTP criteria were reported in a majority of studies (60%), with the most reported item being restoration of strength (44%).

Conclusion

There is a high rate of return to sport after arthroscopic posterior shoulder stabilization, ranging from 4.3 to 8.6 months after surgery. Return to preinjury level is higher for collision athletes compared with overhead athletes. However, there is inadequate reporting of RTP criteria in the current literature, with no clear timeline for when it is safe to return to sport.

Level of Evidence

IV, systematic review of level II to IV studies

Return-to-Play and Rehabilitation Protocols Following Isolated Meniscal Repair-A Systematic Review

Purpose

To systematically review the literature and assess the reported rehabilitation protocols, return-to-play guidelines, and reported rates of return-to-play after meniscal repair.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to identify studies on meniscal repair. Studies were included if return-to-play data and/or rehabilitation protocols were reported. The rate and timing of return-to-play was assessed. The rehabilitation protocols were documented, in addition to when to start range of motion (ROM), full ROM, partial weight-bearing (WB), and full WB.

Results

Overall, 88 studies met our inclusion criteria. Thirteen studies, including 507 patients, cited a range of 71.2% to 100% of return-to-play, with 53.9% to 92.6% returning to the same/greater level, ranging between 3.3 and 10 months. There was considerable variability in the reported rehabilitation protocols, but the most frequently reported time to begin ROM exercises was within the first week (78.9%) and full ROM at 6 weeks (33.3%). Partial WB was typically begun during the first week (61.0%), and full WB between the fourth and sixth week (65.6%) postoperatively. Following surgery, time elapsed was the most commonly cited criteria for return-to-play (97.0%), with 6 months being the most common time point applied (46.9%). No study advised against returning to competitive or contact sports after meniscal repair.

Conclusions

In conclusion, there was a high rate of return-to-play following meniscal repair, with 60% of patients returning to the same level of play. However, there was considerable diversity in the reported rehabilitation protocols and insufficient reporting on return-to-play criteria in the literature. This demonstrates the need for further research and formulation of an evidence-based consensus statement for this patient population.

Level of Evidence

Level IV, systematic review of Level I to IV studies.

Significant Changes in the Diagnosis, Injury Severity and Treatment for Anterior Shoulder Instability Over Time in a U.S. Population

Purpose

To report the annual incidence of anterior shoulder instability (ASI) diagnosis, injury severity, and surgical stabilization in a U.S. population.

Methods

An established U.S. geographic database was used to identify patients < 40 years old with diagnoses of ASI from 1994-2016. Medical records were reviewed to obtain patient demographics, histories, imaging results, and surgical details. Age- and sex-specific incidence rates were calculated and adjusted to the 2010 U.S. population. Poisson regression was performed to examine trends by timeline, sex and age.

Results

The study population consisted of 652 patients with ASI and a mean age of 21.5 years (range, 3.6-39.5). Comparing 2015-2016 to 1994-1999, we found an increase in the number of dislocations (from 1.0-1.9; P = 0.016) and total instability events (from 2.3-3.4; P = 0.041) per patient prior to presentation to a physician. There was a trend in increased diagnosis of bony Bankart and/or Hill-Sachs on MRI over time, with these lesions documented in 96% of patients undergoing MRI in 2015-2018 compared to 52.9% in 1994-1999 (P < .001). The use of arthroscopic procedures increased and peaked in 2005-2009 (90% of surgical cases performed). The proportion of open Latarjet procedures increased from 2010-2014 (14%) and 2015-2018 (31%).

Conclusions

The age- and sex- adjusted incidence of ASI diagnosis in a U.S. population from 1994-2016 is comparable to that demonstrated in Canadian and European populations. This study demonstrates an increasing number of instability events prior to surgical evaluation, which may correlate with patients’ more commonly presenting with bone loss and requiring more aggressive surgical treatment or that ASI is being more frequently cared for and documented by present-day orthopedic surgeons.

Level of Evidence

Level III, cross-sectional study.

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

Purpose

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

Methods

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

Results

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

Conclusions

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

Level of Evidence

Therapeutic case series; Level of evidence, IV

Maximal Medical Improvement Following Shoulder Stabilization Surgery May Require up to 1 Year: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

There is increased emphasis on properly allocating healthcare resources to optimize value within orthopedic surgery. Establishing time to maximal medical improvement (MMI) can inform clinical decision-making and practice guidelines.

PURPOSE

We sought (1) to evaluate the time to MMI as predicted by commonly used patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for evaluation of shoulder stabilization and (2) to evaluate typical time to return to sports and employment following surgery.

METHODS

A systematic review of the Medline database was conducted to identify outcome studies reporting sequential follow-up at multiple time points, up to a minimum of 2 years after shoulder stabilization surgery. The included studies examined the outcomes of arthroscopic or open surgical techniques on anterior instability. Clinically significant improvements were evaluated utilizing the minimal clinically important difference specific to each PROM. Secondary outcomes included range of motion, return to sport/work, and recurrent instability.

RESULTS

Ten studies comprising 590 surgically managed cases of anterior shoulder instability were included (78% arthroscopic, 22% open). Clinically significant improvements in PROMs were achieved up to 1 year post-operatively for Rowe, Western Ontario Instability Index (WOSI), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), and Simple Shoulder Test (SST) scores. For the three most utilized tools (Rowe, WOSI, ASES), the majority of improvement occurred in the first 6 post-operative months. Clinically significant improvements in Constant Score and Oxford Shoulder Instability Score (OSIS) were achieved up to 6 months and 2 years after surgery, respectively. No clinically significant improvements were achieved on the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) tool.

CONCLUSION

Maximal medical improvement as determined by commonly utilized PROMs occurs by 1 year after operative management of anterior shoulder instability. The DASH tool does not appear to demonstrate a reliable time frame for clinically significant outcome improvement.

Clinical Outcomes of Patients With Anterior Shoulder Instability and Glenolabral Articular Disruption Lesions: A Retrospective Comparative Study

BACKGROUND

Anterior shoulder instability is a common clinical condition that often requires surgical stabilization. Glenoid labral tears are often associated with instability, with glenolabral articular disruption (GLAD) lesions occasionally being identified arthroscopically during repair, particularly in collision athletes.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical outcomes and recurrence rates in patients who had GLAD lesions and underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair (ABR) and compare them with a control group without GLAD lesions.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients who underwent ABR with GLAD lesions, by a single surgeon between July 2012 and March 2017, was performed. Additionally, these were pair matched in a 2:1 ratio for age, sex, sport, and level of play with a control group who underwent ABR without GLAD lesions. Return to sport, the level of return, and the timing of return were assessed. The visual analog scale (VAS) for pain score, Rowe score, Shoulder Instability-Return to Sport after Injury (SIRSI) score, and Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV) were evaluated.

RESULTS

The study included a total of 66 patients (22 and 44 patients for the GLAD and control groups, respectively), with a mean age of 25.8 years and a mean follow-up of 66 months. Overall, there was no significant difference in any of the clinical outcome scores (VAS, Rowe, SIRSI, and SSV) utilized for the GLAD and control groups (P > .05 for all). Similarly, there was no significant difference in the total rate of return to play (90.9% vs 88.6%; P > .99) or return at the same/higher level (68.2% vs 72.7%; P = .78). There was no significant difference in timing of return to play (6.3 ± 6.6 months vs 6.4 ± 2.5 months; P = .98). There were 3 cases (13.6%) requiring further surgery (1 revision stabilization, 1 arthroscopic release, and 1 rotator cuff repair) in the GLAD group and 2 cases (4.5%) requiring further surgery (both revision stabilization) in the control group; the difference was not statistically significant (P = .32).

CONCLUSION

After arthroscopic repair, patients with GLAD lesions had similar midterm outcomes when compared with a control group without GLAD lesions.

Anterior Shoulder Instability in the Professional Athlete: Return to Competition, Time to Return, and Career Length

Background:

Anterior shoulder instability is a common condition in professional athletes, yet little is known about the success of surgery. Return to competition (RTC) is a metric indicative of a successful outcome for professional athletes who undergo anterior shoulder stabilization surgery.

Purpose:

To determine the rate of RTC, time to RTC, recurrence rate, and length of career after surgery in professional athletes who had undergone surgical treatment for anterior shoulder instability.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

We evaluated professional athletes who underwent surgical treatment for anterior shoulder instability by a single surgeon between 2007 and 2018. Data from patients’ medical records, a patient data registry, basic search engines, sports websites, and individual team websites were used to determine length of professional play before injury, duration of career after surgery, and RTC level.

Results:

Overall, 23 professional athletes (25 shoulders from 12 contact and 13 noncontact athletes) were identified. The mean age at the time of surgery was 24.3 ± 4.9 years (range, 16-35 years). Primary procedures included arthroscopic Bankart repair (76%; 19/25), open Latarjet (20%; 5/25), and bony Bankart repair (4%; 1/25). Of the 23 athletes, 22 returned to their previous level of competition (96%; 95% CI, 78%-100%). The mean time between surgery and RTC was 4.5 months (range, 3-8 months). There was no difference in time to RTC between contact and noncontact athletes (4.1 vs 4.4 months). There was no difference in RTC rates and time to return for players who received a Bankart repair versus a Latarjet procedure (4.6 vs 4.2 months). A total of 12 participants were still actively engaged in their respective sport at an average of 4.3 years since surgery, while 11 athletes went on to retire at an average of 4.8 years. Duration of play after surgery was 3.8 years for contact athletes and 5.8 years for noncontact athletes (P > .05).

Conclusion:

In this series, professional athletes who underwent surgical shoulder stabilization for the treatment of anterior glenohumeral instability returned to their presurgical levels of competition at a high rate. No differences in RTC rate or time to RTC were observed for contact versus noncontact athletes or for those who received arthroscopic Bankart repair versus open Latarjet. However, contact athletes had shorter careers after surgery than did noncontact athletes.

Functional outcome and return to sports after the arthroscopic latarjet procedure in young and physically active patients

PURPOSE

The ideal treatment strategy for traumatic anterior shoulder instability with glenoid bone loss in young, physically active patients is still controversial. This study examines sporting activity, the ability to practice sports and the ability to return to sports after the arthroscopic Latarjet procedure.

METHODS

A total of 47 physically active patients with an average age of 24.5 ± 5.9 years were included in the study and evaluated at a minimum of two years after surgical treatment using shoulder and sport-specific scores. The shoulder sport activity score, Brophy marx activity score, Athletic shoulder outcome scoring system and the SPORTS score were used to assess the ability to practice sports, the sporting activity and the ability to return to sports. To assess functional outcome and shoulder stability, the evaluation was conducted using the Western Ontario shoulder instability index, the Constant score, the American shoulder and elbow surgeon score, and the Subjective shoulder value.

RESULTS

89.4% of the patients examined were able to perform the sport they had previously practiced after an average of 4.6 ± 2.0 months. Overhead athletes and martial arts athletes demonstrated a significantly lower return to sports rate than non-collision/non-overhead athletes (p = 0.01). With regard to sport-, instability-, or function-specific scores, no significant difference was found between patients after primary Latarjet procedure and patients after Latarjet procedure following a failed open or arthroscopic Bankart repair. All scores showed good to very good functional results on average. Two patients suffered a traumatic recurrent instability (4.1%) during the follow-up period and were therefore excluded from this study.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic Latarjet procedure presents a good surgical option, especially for young, physically active patients; it has very good clinical outcome, a high return to sports rate and a low probability of recurrent dislocation.

Return to Sport After Coracoid Bone Block Transfer for Shoulder Instability: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Shoulder dislocations can be devastating for an athlete. Coracoid bone block transfer is often used for the treatment of recurrent shoulder instability.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

The primary purpose of this study was to determine the rate and mean time of return to sport in athletes after a coracoid bone block transfer at the pre-operative level of competition, a lower level, or a different level. We also sought to determine how return to sport rates after a coracoid bone block procedure compared with rates after several comparator interventions. Finally, we looked to determine the post-operative clinical outcomes and complications reported after a coracoid bone block procedure.

METHODS

We systematically searched three databases (PubMed, Embase, and MEDLINE) for studies reporting return to sport after a coracoid bone block procedure.

RESULTS

A total of 52 studies (with levels of evidence ranging from II to IV) evaluating 2953 shoulders in 2888 patients were included in this systematic review. The mean rate of return to sport at any level was 88.4% (2291 of 2592 patients). However, the rate of return to the pre-operative level was 70.3% (1387 of 1974 patients). The mean time to return to sport was 5.38 months (range 21 days to 36 months). The rate of return to sport was higher after the Latarjet procedure, as compared with Bankart repair (87.0% and 75.8%, respectively). All studies showed improvements in clinical outcome measures after coracoid bone block intervention. The cumulative complication rate was found to be 6.46% (158 of 2446 patients).

CONCLUSION

Coracoid bone block transfer allows for a high rate of return to sport, although the rate of return to sport at athletes' pre-operative level is lower. The rate of return to sport after Latarjet procedure is higher in comparison with Bankart repair. Additionally, coracoid bone block transfer is associated with improvements in a number of clinical outcome measures. Common post-operative complications include non-union between bone block and glenoid, hematoma, and infection.

Global Perspectives on Management of Shoulder Instability: Decision Making and Treatment

The glenohumeral joint is prone to instability. Patients with instability should have a physical examination. Imaging studies can provide additional information. Classification schemes that into account soft tissue pathology, neuromuscular control, bone loss, and activity level. An arthroscopic Bankart repair is the mainstay for unidirectional instability. Bone block procedures are indicated for patients with bone loss or a failed attempt at stabilization surgery. The arthroscopic Latarjet is a promising option for these patients. For patients with multidirectional instability, prolonged rehabilitation is indicated, followed by capsular plication or inferior capsular shift if instability is unresponsive to physical therapy.

Are Patients Who Undergo the Latarjet Procedure Ready to Return to Play at 6 Months? A Multicenter Orthopaedic Outcomes Network (MOON) Shoulder Group Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The Latarjet procedure is growing in popularity for treating athletes with recurrent anterior shoulder instability, largely because of the high recurrence rate of arthroscopic stabilization, particularly among contact athletes with bone loss.

PURPOSE

(1) To evaluate return of strength and range of motion (ROM) 6 months after the Latarjet procedure and (2) to determine risk factors for failure to achieve return-to-play (RTP) criteria at 6 months.

STUDY DESIGN

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

A total of 65 athletes (83% contact sports, 37% overhead sports; mean ± SD age, 24.5 ± 8.2 years; 59 male, 6 female) who enrolled in a prospective multicenter study underwent the Latarjet procedure for anterior instability (29% as primary procedure for instability, 71% for failed prior stabilization procedure). Strength and ROM were assessed preoperatively and 6 months after surgery. RTP criteria were defined as return to baseline strength and <20° side-to-side ROM deficits in all planes. The independent likelihood of achieving strength and motion RTP criteria at 6 months was assessed through multivariate logistic regression modeling with adjustment as needed for age, sex, subscapularis split versus tenotomy, preoperative strength/motion, percentage bone loss, number of prior dislocations, preoperative subjective shoulder function (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons and Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index percentage), and participation in contact versus overhead sports.

RESULTS

Of the patients, 55% failed to meet ≥1 RTP criteria: 6% failed for persistent weakness and 51% for ≥20° side-to-side loss of motion. There was no difference in failure to achieve RTP criteria at 6 months between subscapularis split (57%) versus tenotomy (47%) (P = .49). Independent risk factors for failure to achieve either strength or ROM criteria were preoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores (per 10-point decrease: adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.61; 95% CI, 1.14-2.43; P = .006), Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index percentage (per 10% decrease: aOR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.38-0.92; P = .01), and a preoperative side-to-side ROM deficit ≥20° in any plane (aOR, 5.01; 95% CI, 1.42-21.5; P = .01) or deficits in external rotation at 90° of abduction (per 10° increased deficit: aOR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.06-2.88; P = .02).

CONCLUSION

A large percentage of athletes fail to achieve full strength and ROM 6 months after the Latarjet procedure. Greater preoperative stiffness and subjective disability are risk factors for failure to meet ROM or strength RTP criteria.

Arthroscopic Versus Open Bankart Repairs in Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Instability: A Systematic Review of the Association Between Publication Date and Postoperative Recurrent Instability in Systematic Reviews

PURPOSE

To systematically review the results of systematic studies regarding open versus arthroscopic Bankart repairs for recurrent anterior shoulder instability and quantitatively analyze the effect of primary-literature publication dates on reported outcomes in these systematic studies.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted to identify systematic studies reporting outcomes of both arthroscopic and open Bankart repairs for recurrent anterior shoulder instability. Patient-reported outcome measures, recurrent instability rates, definitions of instability, and procedure types reported by included study characteristics were qualitatively analyzed. Correlation coefficient analyses were performed to investigate if a systematic study's proportion of included primary literature published after 1999, 2000, 2001, or 2002 affected that study's reported mean difference in instability recurrence between open and arthroscopic procedures. The Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews criteria were used to assess the risk of bias of the included studies.

RESULTS

Of 130 identified articles, 6 met the inclusion criteria. Patient-reported outcome measures were poorly reported. Among mean differences in instability recurrence rates, the results were indeterminate: Although 5 studies reported arthroscopic surgical procedures as having a higher recurrence rate, only 1 reported a statistically significant difference. Within the 5 included systematic reviews reporting the number of included studies, 37 of 56 observations were published after 2000. The proportion of studies published after 2000 (Pearson r = 0.88, P = .052) was positively associated with differences in instability recurrence rates between open and arthroscopic procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

Systematic studies that included newer studies (published after 2000) were associated with more favorable arthroscopic outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Management of Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Instability After Surgical Stabilization in Children and Adolescents

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Recurrent shoulder instability after stabilization is common in pediatric and adolescent athletes. The purpose of this review is to understand the risk factors that lead to failure of primary surgery and management principles in the setting of recurrent instability following surgical stabilization.

RECENT FINDINGS

Rates of recurrence after primary and revision surgical stabilization remain higher than desirable. Risk factors for failure in include glenoid and humeral bone loss, capsular or ligamentous laxity, and young age though few studies have focused specifically on the adolescent population. Arthroscopic, open, and bone block techniques have been described in this population similar to adults. Failure after a primary shoulder stabilization remains a common problem in adolescents in no small part because a high proportion of these athletes return to high levels of activity. A thorough understanding of the index procedure and patient-specific risk factors for failure are key to successful planning of revision surgery. The current literature does not allow for firm treatment recommendations in individual pediatric or adolescent athletes, but the guiding principles are similar to those in adults. Specifically, all bony and soft tissue pathology should be identified and assessed, with an understanding that simply repeating the steps of the index procedure typically results in poor outcomes, and often an "escalation" of surgical complexity is required at the time of revision. When appropriately indicated, arthroscopic or open soft tissue procedures and Latarjet coracoid transfer can be safely and successfully implemented for revision shoulder stabilization in young athletes.

A Comparison of Physical Therapy Protocols Between Open Latarjet Coracoid Transfer and Arthroscopic Bankart Repair

CONTEXT

Recent studies examining return to sport after traumatic shoulder instability suggest faster return-to-sport time lines after bony stabilization when compared with soft tissue stabilization. The purpose of the current study was to define variability across online Latarjet rehabilitation protocols and to compare Latarjet with Bankart repair rehabilitation time lines.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Online searches were utilized to identify publicly available rehabilitation protocols from Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)-accredited academic orthopaedic surgery programs.

STUDY DESIGN

Descriptive epidemiology study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 3.

RESULTS

Of the 183 ACGME-accredited orthopaedic programs reviewed, 14 institutions (7.65%) had publicly available rehabilitation protocols. A web-based search yielded 17 additional protocols from private sports medicine practices. Of the 31 protocols included, 31 (100%) recommended postoperative sling use and 26 (84%) recommended elbow, wrist, and hand range of motion exercises. Full passive forward flexion goals averaged 3.22 ± 2.38 weeks postoperatively, active range of motion began on average at 5.22 ± 1.28 weeks, and normal scapulothoracic motion by 9.26 ± 4.8 weeks postoperatively. Twenty (65%) protocols provided specific recommendations for return to nonoverhead sport-specific activities, beginning at an average of 17 ± 2.8 weeks postoperatively. This was compared with overhead sports or throwing activities, for which 18 (58%) of protocols recommended beginning at a similar average of 17.1 ± 3.3 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Similar to Bankart repair protocols, Latarjet rehabilitation protocols contain a high degree of variability with regard to exercises and motion goal recommendations. However, many milestones and start dates occur earlier in Latarjet protocols when compared with Bankart-specific protocols. Consequently, variability in the timing of rehabilitation goals may contribute to earlier return to play metrics identified in the broader literature for the Latarjet procedure when compared with arthroscopic Bankart repair.

STRENGTH OF RECOMMENDATION TAXONOMY (SORT)

Level C.

Return to play and performance after shoulder instability in National Basketball Association athletes

HYPOTHESIS

We hypothesized that players in the National Basketball Association (NBA) who sustained a shoulder destabilizing injury could return to play (RTP) successfully at a high rate regardless of treatment type.

METHODS

We used publicly available data to identify and evaluate 50 players who sustained an in-season shoulder instability event (subluxation/dislocation) while playing in the NBA. Demographic variables, return to NBA gameplay, incidence of surgery, time to RTP, recurrent instability events, and player efficiency rating (PER) were collected. Overall RTP was determined, and players were compared by type of injury and mode of treatment.

RESULTS

All players (50/50) returned to game play after sustaining a shoulder instability event. In those treated nonoperatively, athletes who sustained shoulder subluxations returned after an average of 3.6 weeks, compared with 7.6 weeks in those who sustained a shoulder dislocation (P = .037). Players who underwent operative management returned after an average of 19 weeks. Athletes treated operatively were found to have a longer time interval between a recurrent instability event (70 weeks vs. 28.5 weeks, P = .001).

CONCLUSION

We found 100% rate of RTP after a shoulder instability event in an NBA athlete. Players who experience shoulder dislocations were found to miss more time before RTP and were more likely to undergo surgical intervention compared with those who experienced a subluxation. Surgical repair maintained a longer interval between recurrent instability. Future investigations should aim to evaluate outcomes based on surgical procedures and identify possible risk factors predictive of recurrent instability or failure to RTP.

Return to sports after glenoid reconstruction using an implant-free iliac crest bone graft

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate sports ability and the rate of return to sports after implant-free iliac bone graft for recurrent, anterior shoulder instability and anterior glenoid bone loss. Subgroups of younger and older patients and patients who had previous arthroscopic Bankart surgery and those who did not have such surgery before implant-free iliac bone graft were formed and compared.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 34 patients; 14 patients had previous arthroscopic Bankart surgery, and 20 patients did not have the surgery; The median age at the time of iliac bone graft was 35.3 years (range, 23 to 75), 17 patients were over the age of 35, and 17 patients were under the age of 35. The mean follow-up was 40 months (range: 25 to 56).

RESULTS

All the 34 patients were engaged in pre- and post-operative sport, which represents a return to sport rate of 100%. Although the number of sport disciplines decreased significantly from 6 before the operation to 4.8 after the operation (p=0.002), the number of sports sessions per week did not change significantly, and the duration per session did not change significantly. More than two-thirds of all patients returned to sports within 6 months. Overall, 41% of patients changed sport disciplines, 15% of whom cited shoulder-related causes; however, all patients returned to the same sport level.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall and within the subgroups, the return to sport rate after implant-free iliac bone grafting was high, with a high sense of well-being. The number of sport disciplines decreased significantly and more than one-third of the patients changed disciplines, of which 15% percent changed due to shoulder-related causes. The sport level remained equal, and no other parameters changed significantly compared with the time before the onset of restrictive shoulder symptoms.