Arthroscopic latarjet procedure: safety evaluation in cadavers

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety of arthroscopic Latarjet procedure in cadavers. METHODS: : Twelve cadaveric shoulders underwent arthroscopic Latarjet procedure in our laboratory for arthroscopy, by four different surgeons. Following surgery, the specimens were subjected to radiographic examination and evaluated by an independent examiner. Nineteen parameters were evaluated, including the coracoid graft fixation, positioning and angulation of the screws, neurological damage and integrity of tendons. RESULTS: : Four procedures were considered to be satisfactory, with no difference among the surgeons. The mean angulation of the screws was 27.2°. The subscapularis splitting was, on average, 17.8mm from the upper edge. The coracoid graft was properly positioned relative to equator of the glenoid in 11 cases. There was no injury to the axillary or musculocutaneous nerves. The main complications were: interposition of soft tissue, suprascapular nerve injury, articular deviation of the graft, diastasis and conjoined tendon injury. CONCLUSION: : The arthroscopic Latarjet procedure is a complex technique in which each step must be precise to reduce the risk of complications. Our study showed a high risk of failure of the procedure. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.