Latarjet Shoulder Surgery

If your shoulder keeps dislocating, this minimally invasive procedure can be an effective way to restore stability. Here’s what to know about Latarjet surgery and whether it may be right for you.

What Is the Latarjet Procedure?

The Latarjet procedure strengthens the shoulder socket by adding bone to it, making it harder for the head of the humerus (the upper arm bone) to slip out of place. The surgeon takes a piece of bone from the shoulder blade, moves it to the front of the socket, and fixes it in place with screws.

Am I a Candidate for Latarjet Surgery?

The procedure is best suited to people with chronic shoulder instability or a history of multiple severe dislocations. Specifically, it treats anterior instability, meaning the shoulder slips out toward the front of the body.

In many cases, though not all, patients with these conditions have lost at least 25 percent of their shoulder socket to wear. Others may have cartilage or ligament problems that make the procedure a good option. Your imaging results and personal history also factor into the decision. As with any surgery, non-surgical treatments should generally be tried first to see whether they help.

How Effective Is Latarjet Surgery?

First performed in 1954, the Latarjet procedure has been refined several times over the decades. Although it’s newer than many orthopedic procedures, research shows it’s a well-established surgery with good long-term results.
Like nearly all orthopedic procedures, it carries a small risk of infection or of needing a revision surgery. After a successful operation, however, the re-dislocation rate is estimated to be low, around 5 percent, so most patients find their shoulder stability is effectively restored.

What Happens Before, During, and After Surgery?

Before surgery: You’ll have a pre-surgical physical so your care team can plan around your health history. If you have conditions that could affect the surgery, you may also need appointments with your cardiologist or pulmonologist. On the day of surgery, you’ll meet with your surgeon and anesthesiologist to go over the details of your case.
Going home: Latarjet surgery is a same-day procedure, so you’ll go home the day of surgery. Plan to have someone drive you. Once the anesthesia wears off, you’ll be able to go about your day more or less normally, apart from your immobilized arm.
Recovery: Expect to wear a sling for about six weeks, possibly a bit longer. Therapy typically begins two weeks after surgery. How much time you’ll need off work depends largely on your job. Your shoulder generally won’t be cleared for all activity, or closer to normal use, for about 12 weeks, though this varies from person to person.

Call today to make your appointment: (855) FVORTHO | (855) 386-7846.