Long-term outcomes of the Latarjet procedure in a North American population

Background

Anterior glenohumeral instability often necessitates surgical intervention to prevent recurrence. The open Latarjet procedure is a technique that transfers the coracoid process and conjoined tendon to the anterior glenoid for a triple blocking effect. Originally popularized in Europe, this procedure has become increasingly performed in North America. This study aims to present the long-term outcomes of the largest series of Latarjet procedures performed in North America.

Methods

Patients from two surgeons at a single site who underwent the Latarjet procedure between January 2003 and January 2023 were invited to complete a digital survey capturing their clinical history and perspectives. One hundred eighteen patients completed patient-reported outcome measures including Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation and Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index and responded to questions about dislocations, prior and additional surgery, and instability.

Results

Overall, 94.07% of respondents required no additional shoulder surgery, 94.92% reported no dislocations, and 83.90% reported no slipping. The mean Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation and Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index scores were 84.01 and 21.01, respectively.

Discussion

Short-, mid-, and long-term results indicate positive clinical outcomes. The long-term data suggest that these benefits are durable, and the Latarjet procedure should be considered as a viable and reliable treatment option for anterior glenohumeral instability. This study indicates that long-term Latarjet clinical and patient outcomes are consistent and favorable in a North American patient population.