[Arthroscopic stabilization procedure for multidirectional shoulder instability].

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The authors describe an arthroscopic procedure for multidirectional shoulder instability and its results in a group of their patients. They present a new argument to the widely accepted view that multidirectional instability of the shoulder is not an indication to surgical treatment.

MATERIAL

A total of nine shoulders in seven patients were indicated to surgical intervention because of multidirectional shoulder instability. The average age of the patients was 19 years. Two patients underwent a bilateral procedure. Based on the preoperative clinical findings, two groups were distinguished: the patients with loose shoulders who, with overhead use of the arm, suffered from recurrent subluxations dorsally or caudally, and those who were able to voluntarily dislocate the glenohumeral joint as well as to reduce it spontaneously (habitual posterior dislocation). The patients were evaluated at one year follow-up using the Rowe and Zarins criteria. Patients with unidirectional instability of the shoulder were not included in the study.

METHODS

All patients diagnosed with multiple recurrent posterior dislocations of the shoulder were indicated for surgery. After clinical examination, arthroscopy was carried out in a lateral recumbent position and, according to the findings, first capsulorrhaphy of the posterior capsule of the joint and reattachment of the labrum were performed, and then a similar intervention was carried out on the anterior part of the joint. For the operation, only two incisions were made, one for insertion of the arthroscope, the other for the instruments, and they were used interchangeably. Both absorbable and non-absorbable anchors were used and the capsule was fixed with a sliding knot. Subsequently, the shoulder was immobilized in a Desault bandage for 6 weeks, then rehabilitation was carried out. Full activity including sports was allowed beginning with the third month after surgery.

RESULTS

Shoulder stability was achieved in all patients. After the procedure, no voluntary dislocation of the joint in the posterior direction or subluxations of the shoulder with overhead use of the arm were recorded. All patients, who had had serious problems pre-operatively, were satisfied with the results and would undergo the arthroscopic procedure again. Therefore, the therapy can be regarded as very effective.

DISCUSSION

Our results of operative treatment contradict the generally accepted view that multidirectional shoulder instability is not indicated for surgical treatment, and the only therapy recommended to the patients is shoulder muscle strengthening, with avoidance of excessive motion range. This approach has persisted since the time when open surgery permitted either an anterior or a posterior intervention, but not both at the same stage. Today, arthroscopic reconstruction of the whole capsule is possible, with only a minimal interference with the shoulder muscles. Therefore, its benefits for the patients are undisputable.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic stabilization of the shoulder for the treatment of multidirectional instability is a demanding procedure; however, if performed technically well, it is very efficient and provides good outcomes for patients with this diagnosis.