Are the Classic and the Congruent Arc Latarjet Procedures Equally Effective for the Treatment of Recurrent Shoulder Instability in Athletes?

BACKGROUND

There is a lack of evidence in the literature comparing outcomes between the classic and the congruent arc Latarjet procedures in athletes.

PURPOSE

To compare return to sports, functional outcomes, and complications between the classic and the congruent arc Latarjet procedures in athletes with recurrent glenohumeral instability.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

Between June 2009 and June 2017, 145 athletes with recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability underwent surgery with the Latarjet as a primary procedure in our institution. The classic procedure was used in 66 patients, and the congruent arc method was used in 79 patients. Return to sports, range of motion (ROM), the Rowe score, a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain in sports activity, and the Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System (ASOSS) were used to assess functional outcomes. Recurrences were also evaluated. The postoperative bone block position and consolidation were assessed with computed tomography.

RESULTS

In the total population, the mean follow-up was 41.3 months (range, 24-90 months) and the mean age was 25.3 years (range, 18-45 years). In total, 90% of patients were able to return to sports; of these, 91% returned at their preinjury level of play. No significant difference in shoulder ROM was found between preoperative and postoperative results. The Rowe, VAS, and ASOSS scores showed statistical improvement after operation ( .001). The Rowe score increased from a preoperative mean of 42.8 points to a postoperative mean of 95.2 points ( < .01). Subjective pain during sports improved from 3.2 points preoperatively to 0.7 points at last follow-up ( < .01). The ASOSS score improved significantly from a preoperative mean of 46.4 points to a postoperative mean of 88.4 points ( < .01). No significant differences in shoulder ROM and functional scores were found between patients who received the classic vs congruent arc procedures. There were 5 recurrences (3.5%): 3 dislocations (2%) and 2 subluxations (1%). No significant difference in the recurrence rate was noted between groups. The bone block healed in 134 cases (92%).

CONCLUSION

In athletes with recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability, the Latarjet procedure produced excellent functional outcomes. Most athletes returned to sports at their preinjury level, and the rate of recurrence was very low, regardless of whether the patients received surgery with the classic or congruent arc technique.