Chondral defects of the glenohumeral joint: Long-term outcome after microfracturing of the shoulder

INTRODUCTION: An increasing number of young patients are diagnosed with chondral lesions. Minimally invasive surgical techniques are important in order to delay progression of the early stages of osteoarthritis and the need for total joint replacement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients (n = 32) who had received microfracturing of the shoulder were retrospectively enrolled, of whom 5 had received shoulder replacements after a mean time of 47 months. Of these patients, 23 completed the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and Constant–Murley Scores in addition to an additional subjective questionnaire. Patients were then clinically examined and received x‑ray analysis of the operated shoulder. Data from an additional 4 patients were acquired by telephone interview. RESULTS: Mean follow-up was 105 months. Of the included patients, 13/27 patients reported no pain, 12/27 patients moderate pain. Of these 12, 6/27 reported pain only at night and 3/27 only during rest. Concerning the outcome of surgery, 19/27 patients were “satisfied” or “very satisfied”. There was a statistically significant increase in internal rotation, but no further differences in the range of motion pre- and postoperatively. Patients without any signs of osteoarthritis before surgery showed statistically significantly better outcomes. There was a statistically significant increase in radiological signs of osteoarthrosis in pre- versus postoperative patients. Patients with bipolar lesions showed statistically significantly poorer Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV) results. CONCLUSION: Even though microfracturing does not prevent radiographic progression, microfracture of the glenohumeral joint might be worth considering as part of a treatment regimen for younger patients who may not yet be treated with arthroplasty.