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With progress in arthroscopic surgery, latissimus dorsi transfer for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears (RCTs) has become a reliable all-arthroscopic or arthroscopically assisted procedure. The mid-term results of arthroscopically assisted latissimus dorsi transfer (aLDT) are scarce in the literature. The purpose of this study was to report our clinical and radiographic mid-term results of aLDT for irreparable posterosuperior RCTs. Thirty-one consecutive patients with a mean age of 55.5 years (range, 38-73 years) at the time of aLDT were evaluated after a mean of 3.5 years (range, 2-5 years). All patients had irreparable, full-thickness tears of at least the complete supraspinatus, with or without infraspinatus tendons, and 12 patients (39%) had undergone previous rotator cuff repair (RCR). A concomitant upper-third subscapularis repair was needed at the time of aLDT in 7 patients (23%). Mid-term results were assessed clinically and radiographically (including magnetic resonance imaging). At final follow-up, 4 patients with failure (13%) had undergone revision to reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) essentially for untreatable pain. Patients with revision to RTSA had significantly higher preoperative pain levels (Constant pain score, 6 points vs. 11 points; P =.032) and lower Constant activity scores (2 points vs. 5 points, P =.017) than the remaining 27 patients. Patients with failed previous RCRs had significantly inferior results compared with patients without previous repair (mean Subjective Shoulder Value, 67% vs. 88%; P =.035). For the 27 patients without revision, the mean relative Constant score improved from 63% to 76% (P =.032), the Constant pain score, from 10.5 to 12.7 points (P =.012), and the Subjective Shoulder Value, from 43% to 77% (P <.001). Significant progression of glenohumeral arthropathy by 2 or more grades according to the Hamada classification was observed in 13 of the 27 patients (48%), but there was no significant difference in clinical outcomes between the patients with arthropathy (n = 13) and those without it (n = 14, P =.923). The mid-term results of aLDT for irreparable posterosuperior RCTs were associated with significant improvements in objective and subjective outcome measures. The failure rate leading to conversion to RTSA was relatively high in this cohort. The failures were associated with unusually intense pain in low-demand individuals and/or revision of failed RCR. Long-term results of aLDT are needed to evaluate the effect of this procedure on the progression of osteoarthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We compared the construct stability of traditional knotted techniques with modern knotless anchor systems used in arthroscopically assisted latissimus dorsi transfers (aLDTs) for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. Eighteen cadaveric shoulders were age‐ and gender‐matched to the following three groups: knotted group (two knotted anchors); knotless group (two knotless anchors); and triple anchor group (two knotless anchors; one all‐suture anchor at the apex of the humeral head). All tendons were cyclically loaded in line of the aLDT over 400 cycles followed by a load to failure test. Outcome measures were the ultimate load to failure, elongation, construct stiffness, and failure modes. The triple anchor group revealed the highest ultimate load to failure (431 ± 78 N) compared with the knotted (326 ± 52 N; p =.022) and knotless (353 ± 105 N; p =.129) groups. Total elongation and construct stiffness were not significantly different comparing all three groups. The failure modes were: anchor pull‐out in all specimen of the knotted group; three (50%) anchor pull‐out and three suture pull‐out in the knotless group (p =.046); four (67%) anchor pull‐out, one (17%) suture pull‐out and one tendon pull‐out in the triple anchor group. Biomechanical analyses of knotless fixation techniques for aLDTs show similar construct stability and elongation compared with the traditional, knotted techniques. Bone fixation seems to be improved with the knotless anchor systems. In our practice, we continue to use the knotless fixation technique for aLDT and in the situation of weak, osteoporotic bone, we add a third (all‐suture) anchor to improve construct stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rock climbers are particularly susceptible to shoulder injuries due to repetitive upper-limb movements on vertical or overhanging terrain. However, the long-term effects of prolonged climbing on the shoulder joints are still unknown. The purpose of this study was to analyze the prevalence of pain and degenerative changes in the shoulder joints after high-level rock climbing over at least 25 years. We hypothesized that specific climber-associated patterns of degeneration would be found. Thirty-one adult male high-level rock climbers were compared to an age- and sex-matched control group of 31 nonclimbers. All participants underwent a detailed interview, standardized clinical examination, and bilateral (climbers) or unilateral (nonclimbers, dominant side) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Clinical and MRI findings of the groups were compared. The lifetime prevalence of shoulder pain in the rock climbers was 77%. The rock climbers had significantly more abnormalities in the labrum (82% vs. 52%; P =.002), long biceps tendon (53% vs. 23%; P =.006), and cartilage (28% vs. 3%; P =.005). These increased changes positively correlated with climbing intensity. There were no differences between the 2 groups with respect to rotator cuff tendon pathology (68% vs. 58%; P =.331) and acromioclavicular joint degeneration (88% vs. 90%; P =.713). Despite the increased degenerative changes in the rock climbers, their Constant score (CS) was still better than that of the nonclimbers (CS 94, interquartile range [IQR] 92-97, vs. CS 93, IQR 91-95; P =.019). Prolonged high-level rock climbing leads to a high prevalence of shoulder pain and increased degenerative changes to the labrum, long biceps tendon, and cartilage. However, it is not related to any restriction in shoulder function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The treatment of unstable (Neer type IIB and V) extra-articular distal clavicle fractures remains challenging, especially when encountering a small lateral fragment which does not allow for sufficient screw purchase. It was the purpose of this study to present the clinical and radiologic outcome of a consecutive series of patients treated by a stand-alone coracoclavicular stabilization using a so-called cow-hitch technique with a suture anchor. Nineteen patients were treated with a specific surgical technique for distal clavicle fractures (11 left, 8 right) with either rupture or bony avulsion of the coracoclavicular ligaments. Fourteen patients were examined in our outpatient clinic for the purpose of this study after a mean follow-up of 5 years (1-12.2 years). The examination included scoring according to Constant Murley score (CMS), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES), the Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), and follow-up radiographs. Two additional patients were amenable to a telephone interview. All patients reported very good subjective results, with a mean SSV of 92% and a mean ASES score of 96%. The CMS resulted in average absolute values of 92 points. Fractures consolidated in 95% of cases. One patient developed an asymptomatic pseudarthrosis. The coracoclavicular distance was restored from 21 mm preoperatively to 11 mm at the final follow-up and finally showed an average side-to-side difference of +1.8 mm. Sports activities were fully resumed after an average of 4.7 months. The coracoclavicular stand-alone cow-hitch suture repair for unstable distal clavicle fractures is a minimally invasive fixation technique without prominent hardware that allows for an anatomic reduction and stable fixation with a low complication and high bony union rate. Both radiographic and clinical long-term results are very satisfactory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Accurate glenoid positioning in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is important to achieve satisfying functional outcome and prosthesis longevity. Optimal component placement can be challenging, especially in severe glenoid deformities. The use of patient-specific instruments (PSI) and 3D computer-assisted optical tracking navigation (NAV) are already established methods to improve surgical precision. Augmented reality technology (AR) promises similar results at low cost and ease of use. With AR, the planned component placement can be superimposed to the surgical situs and shown directly in the operating field using a head mounted display. We introduce a new navigation technique using AR via head mounted display for surgical navigation in this feasibility study, aiming to improve and enhance the surgical planning. Methods: 3D surface models of ten human scapulae were printed from computed tomography (CT) data of cadaver scapulae. Guidewire positioning of the central back of the glenoid baseplate was planned with a dedicated computer software. A hologram of the planned guidewire with dynamic navigation was then projected onto the 3D-created models of the cadaver shoulders. The registration of the plan to the anatomy was realized by digitizing the glenoid surface and the base of the coracoid with optical tracking using a fiducial marker. After navigated placement of the central guidewires, another CT imaging was recorded, and the 3D model was superimposed with the preoperative planning to analyze the deviation from the planned and executed central guides trajectory and entry point. Results: The mean deviation of the ten placed guidewires from the planned trajectory was 2.7° ± 1.3° (95% CI 1.9°; 3.6°). The mean deviation to the planned entry point of the ten placed guidewires measured 2.3 mm ± 1.1 mm (95% CI 1.5 mm; 3.1 mm). Conclusion: AR may be a promising new technology for highly precise surgical execution of 3D preoperative planning in RSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronal shear fractures of the capitellum are rare, and their surgical management is challenging, without a defined gold standard. The purpose of this study was to compare the biomechanical stability of 3 different internal fixation techniques for simple coronal shear fractures of the capitellum without posterior comminution. Dubberley type IA fractures of the capitellum were created in 18 cadaveric elbows, which were age and sex matched to the following 3 internal fixation groups: (1) two anteroposterior cannulated headless compression screws (HCSs), (2) two anteroposterior HCSs with an additional anterior antiglide plate (antiGP), and (3) a posterolateral distal humeral locking plate (LP). All fixation techniques were cyclically loaded with 75 N over 2000 cycles and ultimately until construct failure. Data were analyzed for displacement, construct stiffness, and ultimate load to failure. Fragment displacement under cyclic loading with 2000 cycles did not show a significant difference (P =.886) between the 3 groups. The HCS group showed the highest stiffness compared with the HCS-antiGP and LP groups (602 N/mm vs. 540 N/mm vs. 462 N/mm, P =.417), without reaching a statistically significant difference. Ultimate load to failure was also not significantly different on comparison of all 3 groups (P =.297). Simple coronal shear fractures of the capitellum are biomechanically equally stabilized by HCSs compared with HCSs with an additional antiGP or a posterolateral distal humeral LP. In view of the advantages of less (invasive) metalware, the clinical use of 2 isolated anteroposterior HCSs appears reasonable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sternoclavicular joint injections are one of the first-line treatment options for painful non-infectious pathologies of the sternoclavicular joint; however, their long-term effects and predictive value in decision-making for surgery are yet to be defined. Methods: 27/32 Patients who received in total 36 computed tomography-guided sternoclavicular joint injections in 2012–2017 replied the questionnaire with a mean follow-up of 38 months after the first sternoclavicular joint injection. Of those patients, seven underwent subsequent surgery. We evaluated pain response after sternoclavicular joint injection and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons-score at later follow-up. Results: Directly after sternoclavicular joint injection, pain decreased from Visual Analog Scale 5.3 ± 2.4 to 3.8 ± 3 (p = 0.001). In the seven patients who underwent surgery for degenerative changes, definitive outcome correlated with pain relief after the last infiltration (r = 0.86, p = 0.012). Also, the final American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons-score was lower in patients with multiple injections compared to those who were satisfied after the first injection (p = 0.019). Discussion: Sternoclavicular injections are a useful tool in the context of degenerative sternoclavicular joint disorders as the amount of pain reduction is, in case the short-term effect is not long-lasting, at least a strong indicator for the future success of operative treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Understanding muscle and tendon anatomy is of tremendous importance to achieve optimal surgical execution and results in tendon transfers around the shoulder. The aim of this study was to introduce and describe an additional distal muscle slip of the teres major (TM).Methods: Sixteen fresh-frozen cadaver shoulders were dissected with the deltopectoral approach. The ventral latissimus dorsi (LD) tendon was harvested, and the shoulders were analyzed for the presence/absence of a distal teres major slip (dTMs) and its dimensions and relationship with the TM and LD tendons.Results: The dTMs was identified in 12 shoulders (75%). It was always distal to the TM tendon and visible during the deltopectoral approach. There was a clear separation between the TM proximally and dTMs tendon distally. At the humeral insertion, both tendons had a common epimyseal sheet around the teres major and inserted continuously at the humerus. The mean width of the dTMs tendon at the insertion was 13 ± 4 mm (range, 7-22 mm). The total lengths of the dTMs tendon and LD tendon were 40 ± 7 mm (range, 25-57 mm) and 69 ± 7 mm (range, 57-79 mm), respectively (p < 0.001). The dTMs muscle showed direct adhesions in ten shoulders (83%) with the LD muscle.Conclusions: This is the first macroscopic description of an additional distal slip of the teres major muscle. The dTMs has a separate (distal) but continuous (mediolateral) insertion at the humerus within a common epimyseal sheet around the TM. The dTMs tendon is visible during the deltopectoral approach and can therefore provide a lead structure, particularly in ventral LD transfers with the deltopectoral approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) has spread worldwide as a result of an expansion of indications and an aging society. However, the value of RTSA for very old patients is rarely analyzed. This study was conducted to investigate the outcome of primary RTSA in patients older than 80 years. We identified 171 shoulders (159 patients) treated with RTSA at an age of more than 80 years between January 2005 and March 2018. The primary outcome parameters were Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV) and the Constant-Murley score, mortality, complications, and reoperation rates. Secondary outcomes were adverse radiographic outcomes. A minimum follow-up of 1 year was accepted in 14 patients (8%) because of these patients' older age. We included 171 cases (159 patients; 120 female) with a mean age of 84 ± 3 years (range 80.1-94). The main indication for RTSA was cuff tear arthropathy (43%), isolated rotator cuff tear (22%), and fracture (21%). A total of 136 patients (79%) were eligible for physical examination with a mean follow-up of 41 ± 25 months (12-121). Relative Constant-Murley scores improved significantly from 39% ± 19% to 77% ± 16% and SSV from 31% ± 18% to 74% ± 22%. The range of motion and force improved significantly as well. The surgical site complication rate was 30%, with a reoperation rate of 8% (13 patients) mainly due to fracture and glenoid loosening. The overall mortality was 16% with a mean time to death of 53 ± 31 months (95% confidence interval 15, 120), thereby no higher than the age-adjusted, expected mortality rate without this procedure. Despite a quite high postoperative complication rate, RTSA is a valid therapeutic option in patients older than 80 years, with an unexpectedly low medical complication rate and good to excellent improvement of shoulder function and pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rotator cuff (RC) and the deltoid muscle are 2 synergistic units that enable the functionally demanding movements of the shoulder. A number of biomechanical studies assume similar force contribution of the force couple (RC and deltoid) over the whole range of motion, whereas others propose position-dependent force distribution. There is a lack of in vivo data regarding the deltoid's contribution to shoulder flexion and abduction strength. This study aimed to create reliable in vivo data quantifying the deltoid's contribution to shoulder flexion and abduction strength throughout the range of motion. Active range of motion and isometric muscle strength of shoulder abduction and flexion in 0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, and 120° of abduction/flexion as well as internal and external rotation in 0° and 90° of abduction were obtained in 12 healthy volunteers on the dominant arm before and after an ultrasound-guided isolated axillary nerve block. Needle electromyography was performed before and after the block to confirm deltoid paralysis. Radiographs of the shoulder and an ultrasonographic examination were used to exclude relevant shoulder pathologies. Active range of motion showed a minimal to moderate reduction to 94% and 88% of the preintervention value for abduction and flexion. Internal and external rotation amplitude was not impaired. The abduction strength was significantly reduced to 76% at 0° (P =.002) and to 25% at 120° (P <.001) of abduction. The flexion strength was significantly reduced to 64% at 30° (P <.001) and to 30% at 120° (P <.001) of flexion. The strength reduction was linear, depending on the flexion/abduction angle. The maximal external rotation strength showed a significant decrease to 53% in 90° (P <.001) of abduction, whereas in adduction no strength loss was observed (P =.09). The internal rotation strength remained unaffected in 0° and 90° of abduction (P =.28; P =.13). The deltoid shows a linear contribution to maximal shoulder strength depending on the abduction or flexion angle, ranging from 24% in 0° to 75% in 120° of abduction and from 11% in 0° to 70% in 120° of flexion, respectively. The overall contribution to abduction strength is higher than to flexion strength. The combination of deltoid muscle and teres minor contributes about 50% to external rotation strength in 90° of abduction. The internal rotation strength is not influenced by a deltoid paralysis. This study highlights the position-dependent contribution of the shoulder muscles to strength development and thereby provides an empirical approach to better understand human shoulder kinematics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic pseudoparalysis is generally defined as the inability to actively elevate the arm above 90° with free passive range of motion and no neurological deficits. It has been suggested that this arbitrary cutoff needs to be refined. Purpose: To analyze whether there are structural and biomechanical differences in patients with chronic pseudoparalysis and those with chronic pseudoparesis. Study Design: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: In this retrospective study, 50 patients with chronic massive rotator cuff tears (mRCTs; ≥2 tendons) and free passive and active scapular plane abduction <90° were divided into 2 groups: pseudoparalysis group (n = 24; active scapular plane abduction, <45°) and pseudoparesis group (n = 26; active scapular plane abduction, >45° and <90°). Radiographic measurements included the critical shoulder angle, acromiohumeral distance, posterior acromial tilt, anterior and posterior acromial coverages, and posterior acromial height on outlet views. Measurements on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) included fatty infiltration of the rotator cuff muscles, anterior (subscapularis) and posterior (infraspinatus/teres minor) tear extensions, and global (anterior + posterior) tear extension in the parasagittal plane. A published musculoskeletal model was used to simulate the effect of different mRCTs on the muscle force required for scapular plane abduction. Results: Plain radiographs revealed no differences between patients with chronic pseudoparalysis and those with pseudoparesis. MRI assessment showed significant differences between patients with chronic pseudoparalysis and those with pseudoparesis with respect to fatty infiltration of the subscapularis (2.9 vs 1.6; P <.001) and infraspinatus (3.6 vs 3.0; P <.001) muscles, and anterior (−23° vs 4°; P <.001), posterior (−23° vs −14°; P =.034), and global rotator cuff (225° vs 190°; P <.001) tear extensions. The anterior tear extension in patients with chronic pseudoparalysis always involved more than 50% of the subscapularis, which was associated with an odds ratio of 5 for inability to actively abduct more than 45°. The biomechanical model was unable to find a combination of muscles that could balance the arm in space when the tear extended beyond the supraspinatus and the cranial subscapularis. Conclusion: This study confirms that chronic pseudoparalysis and pseudoparesis are associated with different structural lesions. In the setting of a chronic mRCT, involvement of more than 50% of the subscapularis tendon with fatty infiltration of stage 3 is associated with pseudoparalysis of active scapular plane abduction <45°. The key function of the subscapularis was confirmed in the biomechanical model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outcomes of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) surgery for the sequelae of former septic native joint shoulder arthritis are unknown but might be inferior to patients without prior bacterial arthritis. We performed a single-center case-control study embedded in our prospective RTSA cohort. We matched all patients with prior infections in a 1:1 ratio with patients who underwent RTSA for other indications. The matching variables were indication for surgery, age, sex, dominant/nondominant shoulder, and body mass index. We evaluated outcomes by Constant score and active function. Among 1249 patients in the RTSA cohort, 14 were operated for sequelae of previous native shoulder joint infections. Although both groups significantly improved from preoperative to postoperative values, the outcome of postinfectious patients was clearly inferior in comparison with the control group (absolute [38 ± 17 vs. 75 ± 8, P <.01], relative Constant score [47 ± 19 vs. 88 ± 9, P <.01], Constant pain score [11.0 ± 3.1 vs. 14.3 ± 1.3, P <.01], subjective shoulder value [43 ± 26 vs. 85 ± 10, P <.01], abduction [70 ± 43 vs. 148 ± 29°, P =.001], and elevation [82 ± 49° to 131 ± 16°, P =.02]). Moreover, in the postinfectious group, overall surgical complications occurred in 36%, with the need for revision in 21%. There was, however, no recurrence of infection in any of the patients' shoulders. RTSA for end-stage postinfectious joint disease is associated with a high number of complications and reoperations. Clinical outcomes are inferior to those without past infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To report and analyse factors affecting the outcome of streptococcal periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs). Methods: A retrospective analysis of consecutive streptococcal PJIs was performed. Musculoskeletal Infection Society 2013 criteria were used. Outcome was compared with a prospective PJI cohort from the same institution. Results: The most common isolated streptococcal species was Streptococcus dysgalactiae (9/22, 41%) among 22 patients included. Surgical treatment consisted of DAIR (debridement, antibiotics, irrigation and retention) in 12 (55%), one-stage revision arthroplasty in one (4%), two-stage revision arthroplasty in eight (37%) and implant removal in one (4%) patient. An infection free-outcome was achieved in 15 cases (68%), whilst seven (32%) patients failed initial revision and relapsed with the same pathogen, from which six were treated with DAIR and one with one-stage revision arthroplasty. No failures were observed in patients who received a two-stage revision. Failure rates did not differ in the cases treated with rifampin (1/5) from those without 6/17 (p = 0.55). There was no correlation between the length of antibiotic treatment and relapse (p = 0.723). In all failures, a persistent distant infection focus was identified at the time of relapse. Compared with our prospective PJI cohort, relapse rates were significantly higher 32% vs 12% (p < 0.05). Conclusion: No correlation with the use of rifampin or length of antibiotic treatment was found. No failures were observed in patients who received a two-stage revision, which may be the surgical treatment of choice. A distant persisting infection focus could be the reason for PJI relapse with recurrent hematogenous seeding in the joint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The pathophysiology of idiopathic frozen shoulder (FS) remains poorly described. There is a lack of differentiation between idiopathic and secondary cause. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the evidence regarding the pathophysiology of idiopathic FS on a molecular level and emphasize the clinical relevance. Methods: A database search of Medline, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to April 2018 was performed. Participants who underwent previous injections or surgeries were excluded. A thorough selection and quality assessment process using the Cochrane Risk of Bias assessment tool and the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist was conducted by two reviewers independently. Results: A total of 15 studies analyzing 333 study subjects were included. Twelve studies evaluated capsular tissue and three studies investigated blood samples. The tissue samples revealed increased expression of various inflammatory cytokines including interleukins, cyclooxygenase and tumor necrosis factor. Several types of acid-sensing ion channels (ASIC1 and ASIC3) were associated with disturbed neurogenesis and melatonin-regulated pain mechanism. The blood samples showed prevalence of specific interleukin and metalloproteinase genotypes. A decreased matrix metalloproteinase/tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase ratio was found both in tissue and blood. Conclusion: The findings indicate an abnormal local neurogenesis with possible regulation through melatonin. The disturbance in remodeling of the extracellular matrix and in collagen translation, together with a persistent inflammation and an impaired healing, all interact in the process that leads to persistent fibrosis. There is global fibroplasia with localized anterior capsule contracture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: This review aims to describe the role of the latissimus dorsi transfer (LDT) for patients with irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears (RCTs). Recent Findings: Historically, the LDT has been performed as an open (double-incision) procedure for neurologically intact, relatively young patients with irreparable posterosuperior RCTs with disabling loss of active external rotation with or without impaired active elevation. The transferred tendon reconstitutes the posterior rotator cuff and force couple, respectively and thus has the potential to function effectively as an external rotator and humeral head depressor. Long-term results of the open technique have demonstrated in the majority of patients substantial and durable improvements in shoulder function and pain relief at the 10-year benchmark. With the advancements of arthroscopic surgery, the LDT was expanded to an arthroscopically assisted procedure with promising short-term results. In addition to adequate technical performance, the success of the procedure depends on preoperative factors, such as exclusion of glenohumeral osteoarthritis and acromial acetabularization; intact or reparable subscapularis tendon; intact (or hypertrophic) teres minor muscle; adequate preoperative activity of the latissimus dorsi; and normal or mild impairment of overhead function. Summary: The LDT (open or arthroscopically assisted) is a reliable treatment option for patients with massive, irreparable posterosuperior RCTs with disabling loss of active external rotation, with or without diminished overhead function and without advanced glenohumeral osteoarthritis. Precise patient selection is of tremendous importance in the success of the LDT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tear and retraction of the supraspinatus (SS) and infraspinatus (IS) musculotendinous units and/or their repair may be associated with traction damage to the suprascapular nerve, potentially responsible for pain or weakness of the rotator cuff (RC). Arthroscopic release of the transverse scapular ligament at the suprascapular notch has been advocated to prevent or treat suprascapular nerve impairment associated with RC retraction and/or repair. The effect of this procedure on preoperative normal nerve function is, however, not well studied.We hypothesize that (1) decompression of the suprascapular nerve without preoperative pathologic neurophysiological findings will not improve clinical or imaging outcome and (2) suprascapular decompression will not measurably change suprascapular nerve function. Nineteen consecutive patients with a magnetic resonance arthrography documented RC tear involving SS and IS but normal preoperative electromyography (EMG)/nerve conduction studies of the SS and IS were enrolled in a prospective, controlled trial involving RC repair with or without suprascapular nerve decompression at the suprascapular notch. Nine patients were randomized to undergo, and 10 not to undergo, a decompression of the suprascapular nerve. Patients were assessed clinically (Constant score, mobility, pain, strength, subjective shoulder value), with magnetic resonance imaging and neurophysiology preoperatively and at 3- and 12-month follow-up. There was no clinically relevant difference between the release and the non-release group in any clinical parameter at any time point. At magnetic resonance imaging, there was a slightly greater increase of fatty infiltration of the IS in the release group without any other differences between the 2 groups. Electromyographically, there were no pathologic findings in the non-release group at any time point. Conversely, 3 of the 9 patients of the release group showed pathologic EMG findings at 3 months, of whom 2 had recovered fully and 1 only partially at 12 months. In the presence of normal EMG findings, suprascapular nerve release added to arthroscopic RC repair is not associated with any clinical benefit, but with electromyographically documented, postoperative impairment of nerve function in 1 of 3 cases. Suprascapular nerve release does not therefore seem to be justified as an adjunct to RC repair if preoperative EMG findings document normal suprascapular nerve function. Based on these findings, the ongoing prospective randomized trial was terminated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Large, displaced anterior glenoid rim fractures after primary traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation are usually managed by surgical stabilization. Although there is little evidence supporting surgical management, it is often preferred over non-operative treatment. This case report describes non-operative management of such large, displaced anterior glenoid rim fracture with CT- and MRI-based documentation of anatomical healing of the fracture fragment, a finding that has not been described previously.Case Presentation: This case report describes a 49-year-old male, right-hand dominant, carpenter, who had a left-sided primary anterior shoulder dislocation after a fall while skiing. Initial plain radiographs showed a reduced glenohumeral joint with a large, displaced anterior glenoid rim fracture. CT-evaluation showed a centered humeral head, and as per our institutional protocol, non-operative management was initiated. Longitudinal radiographic assessment at 2 weeks, 4.5 months and 12 months showed reduction of the initially severely displaced fracture fragment. MRI- and CT-evaluation after 12 months confirmed anatomical healing of the fragment. At final follow-up, the patient was highly satisfied, although the healing process was complicated by posttraumatic frozen shoulder, which has had almost fully resolved after 12 months.Conclusions: Given that the glenohumeral joint is concentrically reduced, large (displaced) anterior glenoid rim fractures after traumatic primary shoulder dislocation can be successfully treated non-operatively, with the potential of anatomical fracture fragment healing. Therefore, it remains subject to conservative treatment at our institution and surgical stabilization is reserved for patients with a decentered humeral head or persistent glenohumeral instability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]