Clinical and radiological outcome after mini-open Latarjet technique with fixation of coracoid with Arthrex wedge mini-plate.

Background: Technical faults leading to coracoid fractures during screw insertion and coracoid graft osteolysis are concerns with standard screw fixation techniques in Latarjet procedure. The purpose of this study is to share our experience using Arthrex wedge profile plate with mini-open technique for graft fixation, that ensures better load distribution between coracoid graft and glenoid.

Methods: We did retrospective analysis of 24 patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability after failed arthroscopic Bankart's repair. Arthroscopic examination of affected shoulder was done in lateral position before making patient supine for open Latarjet. A low profile wedge plate (Arthrex) with two screws was used for the procedure. CT analysis was performed post-operatively at 6 months to see graft union and results were evaluated using the Rowe and Walch Duplay score.

Results: Mean follow-up time was 26 months. Postoperatively, mean forward elevation was 170.6 + 4.6° (loss of average 5.9°) and mean external rotation was 42.5 + 5.3° (loss of average 3.1°). All patients returned to their previous occupation. None reported to be having any recurrent subluxation. Functional assessment done using Rowe score and Walch Duplay score showed statistically significant improvement (p value 0.034). There were no implant-related complications and no case of coracoid graft osteolysis.

Conclusions: Mini-open Latarjet with graft fixation with Arthrex mini-plate provides satisfactory outcome in patients who require reoperation due to dramatic bone loss and failed soft tissue reconstruction. The modified incision improves exposure enabling plate fixation and the secure fixation accelerates rehabilitation.