What does an open Latarjet procedure treat?

Dr. Michel Latarjet, a French surgeon, first described a surgical procedure for treating recurrent shoulder dislocations in 1954. The shoulder has the largest range of motion of any joint in the body due to the ball-and-socket joint arrangement of the humeral head (upper arm bone) into the glenoid socket of the scapula (shoulder blade). The soft tissue restraints surrounding this shoulder joint however, lack adequate stability. This poor stability makes the shoulder easily susceptible to dislocation and thus is one of the most commonly dislocated joints. The surrounding ligaments and tendons become stretched or torn when the humerus separates from the scapula. This weakening of the soft tissues further minimizes the little stability they provide giving way to recurrent shoulder dislocations.

Who should have an open Latarjet procedure?

The goal of an open Latarjet procedure is to restabilize the shoulder and reduce the risk of future shoulder dislocations. The open Latarjet procedure is typically reserved for patients who have experienced the following:

  • 1 – Anterior (front) bone loss from the glenoid socket as a result of recurrent shoulder dislocations.
  • 2 – Failure in the manipulation of the humeral head back into the glenoid socket, most likely due to a severe or complex shoulder dislocation
  • 3 – Chronic instability of the shoulder joint from multiple shoulder dislocations.

The open Latarjet procedure deepens the glenoid socket, rearranges the tendons into a sling-like formation, and relocates them to the anterior shoulder. Dr. Ronak Mukesh Patel, orthopedic shoulder doctor, treats patients in Sugar Land, Pearland, and the Houston, Texas area who are in need of an open Latarjet procedure.

How is an open Latarjet procedure performed?

The open Latarjet procedure is contingent on the injury complexity and any other associated shoulder injuries. Dr. Patel begins by creating an incision over the anterior portion of the shoulder. This incision allows Dr. Patel to visualize the entire shoulder joint while making the necessary revisions. A portion of the coracoid process bone is removed from the scapula with the ligaments still attached. This new bone segment is transferred to the front portion of the glenoid socket where it is fastened in place using surgical screws. Studies have found that patients who elected and underwent an open Latarjet procedure had better Rowe scores (an internationally recognized scoring system) and shoulder stability over a 6-year period.

What is the recovery period like after an open Latarjet procedure?

The recovery period following a successful open Latarjet procedure can be affected by the patient’s age, medical history, and any other concurrent shoulder conditions. Most patients can expect a return to normal daily activities in approximately 3 months with a full recovery in 6 months. Patients in Sugar Land, Pearland, and the Houston, Texas area can generally expect the following:

  • The shoulder will be immobilized immediately after surgery with a sling or other immobilization device that will remain in place for 5 to 6 weeks. By limiting unnecessary shoulder movements, the joint is protected and allows the shoulder to heal properly.
  • Ice packs can be applied to the shoulder to control post-operative inflammation and pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) are also recommended for pain management.
  • Active/passive range of motion exercises can begin after clearance from Dr. Patel.
  • The key to a successful recovery following an open Latarjet procedure is adhering to and completing the physical rehabilitation program set forth by Dr. Patel. This physical therapy program will be tailored to restoring strength and range of motion of the shoulder.

Shoulder Instability Surgeon

Do you experience chronic instability due to multiple shoulder dislocations or injuries? If so, an open Latarjet procedure can help to restore stability and prevent further dislocations. This operation is proven to produce excellent results in repairing the shoulder joint. Shoulder surgeon, Doctor Ronak Mukesh Patel, provides diagnosis and treatment options for patients in Houston, Sugar Land, and Pearland, TX who experience severe shoulder instability. Contact Dr. Patel’s team today!