Editorial Commentary: Working Around the Coracoid—The Lighthouse to the Shoulder

Abstract

Working around the coracoid has now become commonplace in arthroscopic shoulder surgery. No longer is there a safe side and a "suicide"; therefore, it is important to recognize the potential for neurovascular injury when surgery is performed about the coracoid. Although safe zones and distances are important, when more complex procedures are performed arthroscopically, direct visualization and identification of neurovascular structures is critical in avoiding iatrogenic injury.

Recurrent Instability after the Latarjet Procedure

“…Recent literature highlighted the importance of understanding changes in the neurovascular anatomy when performing a second procedure. 27,28 The musculocutaneous and axillary nerves can move inferior and medial to the anterior glenoid rim, which can make dissection and retraction challenging. Laprade et al 28 conducted a cadaveric study to measure the distance between the neurovascular structures and the coracoid tip at 3- and 6-o'clock positions following the Latarjet procedure.…”