Latarjet

In some individuals who experience multiple shoulder dislocations, the front of the glenoid (socket) begins to erode or wear away as a result of the repetitive trauma. As more of the glenoid bone erodes, the shoulder becomes less and less stable. When a significant amount of glenoid bone is lost, soft tissue repair (Bankart repair) is less successful.

In these cases, the Latarjet (named after a French surgeon) may be indicated. The Latarjet is a procedure performed through an incision in the front of the shoulder in which a bone (the coracoid) is moved to the front of the glenoid. This procedure restores the bony integrity of the glenoid, effectively stabilizing the joint.

The Latarjet is an outpatient surgery. Patients go home the same day with a shoulder immobilizer sling. The sling is worn for 4-6 weeks, but may be removed for bathing and physical therapy. Most patients are allowed to return to their activities by 6 months after surgery.