Proximal-medial part in the coracoid graft demonstrates the most evident stress shielding following the Latarjet procedure: a simulation study using the 3-dimensional finite element method.

BACKGROUND

Although the osteolysis of the coracoid graft is frequently observed after the Latarjet procedure particularly in its proximal part, its pathomechanism is not well understood.

METHODS

Three-dimensional finite element glenohumeral joint models were developed using CT-DICOM data of 10 normal shoulders. A 25% bony defect was created on the anterior glenoid rim, and the coracoid process was transferred flush with the glenoid cartilage using 2 half-threaded screws. In the hanging arm as well as in the 90° abducted positions, a compressive load (50 N) was applied to the greater tuberosity toward the center of the glenoid and a tensile force (20 N) was applied to the coracoid tip along the direction of the conjoint tendon. Next, elastic analysis was performed, and the distribution patterns of the equivalent stress as well as the maximum principal stress were compared among 4 parts (proximal/distal and medial/lateral) of the coracoid graft.

RESULTS

Both the equivalent stress and the maximum principal stress were reduced in the proximal half of the coracoid graft. A high stress concentration was observed in the lateral aspect of the coracoid graft particularly in the 90° abducted position. The proximal-medial part demonstrated the lowest equivalent stress as well as the maximum principal stress for both arm positions, which were significantly lower than those in the distal 2 parts.

CONCLUSION

In the Latarjet procedure, the proximal-medial part of the coracoid graft demonstrated the most evident stress shielding, which may play an important role in postoperative osteolysis.