Latarjet Surgery
What is Latarjet Surgery?
What is Latarjet Surgery?
Latarjet surgery consists of the procedure described by Michel Latarjet to treat instability and recurrent dislocations of the shoulder, with the transfer of a bone pad from the front of the shoulder blade (coracoid), where a tendon is inserted (conjoint tendon), to the region of the articular surface of the shoulder (glenoid).
In this way, the aim is not only to extend the contact surface of the humeral head (ball) on the glenoid (socket), but also to obtain a “strap” effect of the conjoined tendon on the anterior stabilizing structures (such as the subscapularis tendon).
This bone tablet is classically fixed with screws, but new techniques with suture threads have been described.
Who needs Latarjet surgery?
Latarjet surgery is indicated for patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability. There are some risk criteria that are taken into account when choosing Latarjet surgery, especially those related to loss of the bone surface of the humerus or glenoid, contact or high-risk sports (climbing, for example) and tissue elasticity.
When to resume sports after Latarjet surgery?
Latarjet surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis or with an overnight stay, with the patient discharged the following day. A small incision is used for the conventional approach. The arthroscopic technique is also possible, although it is technically difficult and does not provide superior results compared to the conventional open alternative (or mini-open).
After surgery, the arm is placed in a brachial suspension to rest and allow initial consolidation of the bone mass, with passive movements being permitted to help reduce stiffness. Physiotherapy is recommended from the 2nd week post-operatively and full recovery to an active life takes around 3-4 months. In high-risk athletes involved in contact sports, returning before 6 months increases the chance of recurrence.
