Latarjet

Patients with a history of repeated shoulder dislocations and considerable loss of glenoid bone may be well-suited for these surgeries. These surgical options might also be advised for individuals who’ve had an unsuccessful Bankart repair or are prone to frequent dislocations due to specific conditions like ligamentous laxity.

Both surgeries are conducted under general anesthesia for patient comfort.

For the Latarjet procedure, your shoulder surgeon Dr. Mayo makes an incision to expose the shoulder joint. A bone segment from the shoulder blade, known as the coracoid process, is repositioned to the front of the glenoid and secured with screws.

In the Free Bone Block operation, a similar incision is made, and a bone graft is positioned to correct the glenoid deficit. This graft is usually sourced from the patient’s own body or a donor, and it’s affixed using screws. For both procedures, the shoulder capsule is subsequently reattached to enhance stability.

Recovery timeframes differ among patients, but most can expect to resume light work duties within several weeks post-surgery. Returning to high-impact activities or sports usually takes 4-6 months, allowing for the bone graft or transferred bone to solidify adequately.

After surgery, your shoulder will be stabilized in a sling to facilitate healing. You will be given medication to alleviate any discomfort during the initial stages of recovery. You will go home from surgery the same day.

Postoperative therapy is crucial and typically follows a three-phased plan:

• Early Stage (Weeks 1-6): Focus on pain management, reducing inflammation, and gradually regaining passive range of motion.
• Middle Stage (Weeks 6-12): Emphasis shifts to active range-of-motion and light strengthening exercises.
• Late Stage (Weeks 12 and beyond): Advanced strengthening and activity-specific training to prepare you for a return to full function.

As with all surgeries, potential complications may arise:

• Infection: A less than 1% occurrence rate; antibiotics are administered as a preventative measure.
• Nonunion or Malunion: A risk where the graft or transferred bone doesn’t integrate properly, requiring potential additional treatment.
• Nerve Damage: Though extremely rare, injury to nerves around the surgical site is possible.
• Hardware Issues: Screws used in the surgery might loosen or break, necessitating further intervention.
• Persistent Pain: Given the initial damage due to past dislocations, some level of chronic pain might persist.

If your shoulder surgeon Dr. Ben Mayo suggests these procedures and you opt against them, possible risks include:

• Ongoing Dislocations: The shoulder may continue to dislocate, leading to further damage and instability.
• Joint Deterioration: The repetitive dislocations could result in osteoarthritis over time.
• Functional Limitation: Your capacity to perform daily activities or engage in sports may be compromised.