Open reconstruction of large bony glenoid erosion with allogeneic bone graft for recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation.

BACKGROUND: Severe glenoid bone loss in recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability is rare and difficult to treat.

PURPOSE: The authors present a surgical technique using allogeneic bone grafting for open anatomic glenoid reconstruction in addition to the capsular shift procedure.

STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS: Nine consecutive patients with a history of recurrent anterior shoulder instability underwent reconstruction of large bony glenoid erosion with a femoral head allograft combined with an anteroinferior capsular shift procedure. Preoperative computed tomographic and arthroscopic evaluation was performed to confirm a > or =120 degrees osseous defect of the anteroinferior quadrant of the glenoid cavity, which had an "inverted-pear" appearance. Patients were followed for at least 4.5 years (range, 4.5-14). Serial postoperative radiographs were evaluated. Functional outcomes were assessed using Rowe scores.

RESULTS: All grafts showed bony union within 6 months after surgery. The mean Rowe score improved to 84 from a preoperative score of 24. The mean loss of external rotation was 7 degrees compared with the normal shoulder. One subluxation and 1 dislocation occurred after grand mal seizures during follow-up. These 2 patients regained shoulder stability after closed reduction. The remaining patients did not report recurrent instability. All patients resumed daily activities without restricted motion.

CONCLUSION: This technique for open reconstruction is viable for the treatment of recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability with large bony glenoid erosion.