Anchor, Implant, and Post-Traumatic Arthropathy After Instability Repair: How to Diagnose and Manage

Glenohumeral arthritis following shoulder instability surgery can be due to a variety of factors. One of these, termed anchor arthropathy, presents a significant challenge in management. Studies indicate a varied incidence of glenohumeral arthropathy, with risk factors including age at first dislocation, number of dislocations, and the type of surgical approach. Diagnosis is complex, often relying on a combination of patient history, physical examination, and imaging, with a high index of suspicion necessary for early identification of glenohumeral arthropathy after instability repair. Management typically involves early arthroscopic evaluation and removal of any potential, problematic implants, with promising outcomes reported in revision surgeries. This article underscores the importance of early recognition of glenohumeral arthropathy to prevent long-term complications and improve patient outcomes.