Shoulder instability usually develops after an injury, such as a fall, collision, or sports-related trauma. Once the shoulder dislocates, the risk of it happening again increases, especially in younger and more active individuals. Each additional dislocation can cause further damage to the bone and soft tissues.

In some cases, instability is primarily due to stretched or torn ligaments. In others, there is actual bone loss from the front of the socket or damage to the back of the ball of the shoulder. This type of damage makes the joint inherently unstable and less likely to respond to standard repair techniques.

Patients often describe a feeling that the shoulder is loose, slipping, or about to give out. Activities that involve overhead motion or rotation can become difficult or unpredictable.

There are specific situations where Latarjet becomes the preferred option. It is not the first line of treatment for all cases of shoulder instability. Many patients can be successfully treated with physical therapy or less invasive surgical procedures, such as arthroscopic stabilization.

It is most commonly recommended when there is significant bone loss from the front of the shoulder socket. Without restoring that missing bone, other procedures have a higher risk of failure. It is also considered in patients who have had repeated dislocations despite prior surgery. In these cases, the underlying problem is often more complex and requires a more robust solution.

Athletes involved in contact or collision sports may also be candidates for Latarjet. These individuals place high demands on their shoulders and require a level of stability that can withstand forceful impacts. The added structural support from the bone transfer provides a more durable outcome.

Additionally, Latarjet may be used when imaging shows specific patterns of damage, such as a combination of socket bone loss and a defect in the ball of the shoulder. This combination increases the likelihood of instability and often requires a procedure that addresses both issues.

The Latarjet procedure is an open surgical approach. Dr. Gazzaniga will make an incision at the front of the shoulder to access the joint. The coracoid bone is carefully removed along with its attached tendon. This bone segment is then shaped and positioned at the front edge of the shoulder socket.

Once in place, the bone is secured using screws to ensure it heals firmly to the existing socket. The attached tendon is positioned so that it acts as a sling, tightening when the arm is raised or rotated outward. This provides additional resistance against dislocation.

The procedure is designed to address both the structural and functional causes of instability. By increasing the size of the socket and adding dynamic support, the shoulder becomes significantly more stable.

Recovery from a Latarjet procedure is structured and gradual. The arm is typically placed in a sling for several weeks to protect the repair and allow the bone to heal. During this time, movement is limited, but gentle exercises may begin under guidance.

Physical therapy plays a critical role in recovery. The initial focus is on restoring range of motion without placing stress on the repair. As healing progresses, strengthening exercises are introduced to rebuild the muscles that support the shoulder.

Most patients can return to normal daily activities within a few months, but full recovery, including return to sports, can take longer. The timeline depends on the individual, the extent of damage, and adherence to rehabilitation.

The Latarjet procedure has a strong track record of success in stabilizing the shoulder. Most patients experience a significant reduction in instability episodes and are able to return to their previous level of activity.

The priority is to create a shoulder that is reliable and able to function without the constant risk of dislocation. There may be some limitations in range of motion, particularly with external rotation, but this is often a reasonable trade-off for improved stability.

For patients dealing with recurrent shoulder dislocations, especially those with bone loss or prior failed surgery, the Latarjet procedure offers a reliable and lasting solution when executed by a shoulder expert like Dr. David Gazzaniga. Contact him to schedule a consultation to learn about your condition and all your treatment options.