Anterior glenoid reconstruction for unstable dislocating shoulders. Surgery to restore lost anterior glenoid bone and deep the socket with a bone graft can restore shoulder anatomy and lessen pain and improve function.

Edited By: Frederick A. Matsen III, M.D., Winston J. Warme, MD
Last updated Monday, October 09, 2006

Conclusion

What are the five most important facts about surgery to deepen the socket of anteriorly dislocating shoulders (using an anterior iliac crest bone graft) for failed surgery for anterior dislocation?

After a procedure for anterior shoulder dislocation fails, the tissues may be compromised so that another routine repair may not be dependable.

In such a situation, especially if there is a loss of the normal lip of the socket and deficiency of the normal soft tissues, consideration can be given to a shoulder reconstruction using a contoured iliac crest graft placed outside the shoulder capsule.

This reconstruction is best performed by a surgeon familiar with complex shoulder revision surgery.

The iliac crest graft can provide excellent stability of the shoulder.

Other options include accepting the limitations of instability, attempting a repeat soft tissue procedure, and a shoulder fusion.

Surgery for failed surgery for anterior dislocation at the University of Washington

Disclaimer

This resource has been provided by the University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine as general information only. This information may not apply to a specific patient. Additional information may be found at http://www.orthop.washington.edu or by contacting the UW Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine.

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