A new subscapular sling operation to stabilize the shoulder. A cadaver study

INTRODUCTION: A new arthroscopic shoulder stabilisation procedure is proposed, which for some patients could be an alternative to the arthroscopic Latarjet procedure. METHODS: The objective was to stabilize the shoulder by making a sling around the subscapularis tendon, using a hamstring graft and enhancing the anterior rim of the glenoid with the same graft. The anatomical feasibility of the surgical procedure was tested to establish the surgical method. RESULTS: Four surgeons performed the surgery on six cadavers. After the surgery the cadavers were dissected to visualize the result. The sling was placed according to the intention and the nerves in the area (axillary and musculocutaneus) were not at risk, nor had they altered position during the procedure. CONCLUSION: The procedure is technically feasible and the risk of complications seems low. This procedure could be an alternative to the Latarjet procedure and to other operations used for anterior instability of the shoulder. A biomechanical study will be performed as the next stage of the development. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This procedure could be an alternative to the Latarjet procedure and to other operations used for anterior instability of the shoulder. TRIAL REGISTRATION: 2012/1978/REK sør-øst