Abstract
The Latarjet procedure is a successful primary and revision option for anterior shoulder instability; however recent reports have highlighted varying complication rates. Our aim was to prospectively study clinical, functional and radiological outcomes of patients undergoing this procedure.
50 consecutive patients underwent a Latarjet coracoid transfer between 2006 and 2012. Mean age was 27 years (17–63), 48 were male. Pre-/post-operative imaging, Oxford Shoulder Instability Score (OISS), American Shoulder & Elbow Surgeons score (ASES), Subjective Shoulder Value score (SSV) and clinical evaluation were documented. Mean follow up was 32 months (6–74).
There were no dislocations or revision procedures. Subluxation occurred in one patient only. 95% of shoulders were subjectively graded “excellent” or “good;” 5% “fair;” and none as “poor”. The mean pre-op ASES was 58(50–66) and 95(92–98) post-operatively(p<0.001). The mean pre-operative OISS was 19(18–22) and 43(41–45) post-operatively(p<0.001). The mean SSV increased from 46% to 89%(p < 0.001). 98% of patients considered their surgery to be “successful” and 95% would recommend the procedure to a friend. 82% returned to sport at their previous level. There were no infective or metalwork-related complications. 5 experienced transient neurological symptoms all of which resolved within 3 months.
These results suggest that the Latarjet procedure is safe and reliable with low complication rates.