Biomechanical Testing of Scapular Spine Autograft for Anterior Glenoid Bone Augmentation

Free Bone Block Procedures for Glenoid Reconstruction in Anterior Shoulder Instability

Advances in the understanding and management of bone loss in shoulder instability have led to the development of free bone block techniques as an alternative to the Latarjet procedure. These techniques have been proposed as a theoretically safer option to Latarjet, and there is growing clinical enthusiasm in their use. The purpose of this article was to contextualize the utilization of free bone block procedures in the current treatment paradigm of anterior shoulder instability and to review the history and common types of bone autograft (eg, iliac crest, distal clavicle, scapular spine) and allograft (eg, distal tibia, preshaped blocks) techniques and approaches, as well as their clinical effectiveness and safety.

Open Glenoid Augmentation With Scapular Spine Autograft for Recurrent Shoulder Instability: A Report of Two Cases

Optimal treatment for patients with significant glenoid bone loss after severe shoulder dislocation remains a topic of discussion, as there are many autograft and allograft techniques for glenoid augmentation. Several studies have identified scapular spine autograft to be a potential option for restoring glenohumeral stability, however, there is limited clinical data for this procedure. We present two cases in which patients suffered from anterior glenoid bone loss and recurrent shoulder instability who underwent open glenoid augmentation with scapular spine autograft. Both patients report a full return to activity with no functional limitations. Open glenoid augmentation with a scapular spine autograft is a viable option for patients with anterior glenoid bone loss and recurrent shoulder instability.

Early Treatment of Shoulder Pathology Is Necessary but Not Enough Is Being Performed

Delayed treatment of shoulder instability results in bone loss requiring more-complicated surgery, in turn resulting in less-optimal outcomes. Similarly, delayed treatment of repairable rotator cuff tears results in irreparable tears requiring more-complicated surgery and resulting in less-optimal outcomes. Delayed treatment of shoulder pathology is a problem. Solutions include education and research investigation.