Editorial Commentary: The Latarjet: Increased Shoulder Stability, and Increased Risk of Complications in Low Volume Practitioners

Abstract

The Latarjet procedure is a well-established treatment for shoulder instability. It is traditionally used for recurrent instability with significant bone loss (i.e. >20%) or after failed soft tissue procedures. It can be done open or arthroscopically with either a subscapularis takedown or a split. It has good long-term results regarding recurrence and clinical outcomes. Unfortunately, it has higher complication rates in comparison to its alternative procedures such as arthroscopic Bankart repair or open Bankart repair. These complications may be due to the learning curve of performing the procedure and lack of proper training. The Latarjet procedure is a necessary tool to treat shoulder instability. We need better training and exposure to Latarjet procedures in residency, fellowship, and clinical practice so that more providers can do this procedure for our patients, but we need to do it more safely.

Resident Involvement in Shoulder-Stabilization Procedures Is Not Associated With an Increased Risk of 30-Day Postoperative Complications

“… 3 , 4 For patients with critical glenoid bone loss, the Latarjet–Bristow has shown to have slightly greater complication rates, however, with decreased recurrence rates of postoperative instability. 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 …”