ARTHROSCOPIC TREATMENT OF GLENOID FRACTURES ASSOCIATED WITH ANTEROMEDIAL SHOULDER DISLOCATION

Abstract

Purpose of the study: Depending on the series, fractures of the anteroinferior glenoid labrum have been reported in 3% to 90% of patients with anterior shoulder instability. These fractures disrupt the physiological glenoid concavity and shorten the effective length of the glenoid arch. Indications for treatment depend on the size of the fragment and range from osteosynthesis to resection or suture. We hypothesized that these lesions could be treated arthroscopically (Bankart procedure with fragment suture). The purpose of this work was to analyze clinical and radiological outcome observed in nine patients with anterior instability associated with significant glenoid fracture.

Material and methods: This was a monocentric study of a continuous series of nine glenoid fractures associated with anteromedial dislocation in nine patients (three women and six men), mean age 35.5 years (range 17–75 years). Preoperatively, all of the fractures were considered to involve more than 25% of the glenoid surface. After detaching the capsulolabral lesion with the bony fragment and avivement of the anterior border, the Bankart procedure was performed with anchors and resorbable sutures. The shoulder was strapped for six weeks with passive rehabilitation (pendulum movements) initiated early.

Results: Mean follow-up was 27 months (range 12–48 months). There were no cases of recurrent instability. Seven patients were very satisfied and two were satisfied. Eight patients were able to resume their sports activities at the same level. Apprehension developed in all patients. At last follow-up, joint motion was normal for eight of the nine patients, the Duplay score was 100 for eight patients and 45 for one. All bony lesions healed in an anatomic position (six analyzed with plain x-rays and three with CT scan).

Discussion and conclusion: This short series demonstrates that glenoid fractures can be treated arthroscopically with concomitant treatment of the capsulolabroligament complex in order to reconstruct the glenoid arch, an essential element for restoring shoulder stability. It is thus necessary to identify bony lesions preoperatively to determine the most appropriate therapeutic approach. A long-term follow-up will be useful to assess the rate of recurrent instability and validate this therapeutic option.