Functional Outcome of Latarjet Procedure in Recurrent Shoulder Dislocation in Adults

Abstract

Background: Recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation is a common orthopaedic condition affecting young, active individuals and is frequently associated with glenoid bone loss and Hill-Sachs lesions. In patients with significant osseous defects, the Latarjet procedure has emerged as the preferred surgical treatment because it restores shoulder stability through bone augmentation and the dynamic sling effect of the conjoint tendon. Objectives: To evaluate the functional outcomes, radiological findings, return to activity, and postoperative complications following the Latarjet procedure in adults with recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Orthopaedics at a tertiary care teaching hospital over 18 months (November 2024 to May 2026). A total of 30 adult patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability associated with significant glenoid bone loss underwent the standard open Latarjet procedure. Preoperative evaluation included detailed clinical examination, radiographs, 3D computed tomography for assessment of glenoid bone loss, and magnetic resonance imaging for associated soft tissue injuries. Patients were followed at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months. Functional outcome was assessed using the Modified University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Score. Secondary outcomes included range of motion, return to pre-injury activity, recurrent instability, and postoperative complications. Results: The study population was predominantly male (90%), with most patients aged 25–30 years (43.3%). Trauma was the most common mechanism of injury (83.3%), and 86.7% of patients had experienced more than five episodes of shoulder dislocation before surgery. Fifty percent of patients had 15–20% glenoid bone loss, while 43.3% had bone loss greater than 20%. Progressive improvement was observed in all components of the Modified UCLA Shoulder Score throughout follow-up. At 12 months, 73.3% of patients achieved excellent and 26.7% achieved good functional outcomes. Full return to pre-injury activity was achieved in 76.7% of patients. No recurrent instability or redislocation was observed. Only one patient (3.3%) developed transient axillary nerve neuropraxia, and overall patient satisfaction was 100%. Conclusion: The Latarjet procedure provides excellent functional recovery, reliable shoulder stability, high patient satisfaction, and a low complication rate in adults with recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation associated with significant glenoid bone loss. It remains an effective and dependable surgical option for restoring shoulder function and preventing recurrent instability.

Keywords: Recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation, Latarjet procedure, Glenoid bone loss, Shoulder instability, Modified UCLA score, Functional outcome, Coracoid transfer.