Editorial Commentary: Lower Return to Play After Failed Prior Instability Surgery: Should the Open Latarjet Be the Gold Standard for Anterior Shoulder Instability?

Abstract

Anterior shoulder instability is common in contact athletes. Arthroscopic Bankart repair can result in good clinical outcomes, but high recurrence rates have been reported. The open Latarjet procedure can result in excellent functional outcomes with low rates of recurrent instability. Despite these encouraging results, there may be a lower return to play rate in athletes undergoing this procedure for a prior failed instability surgery. Due to the complexity of the procedure and high complication rate, the open Latarjet should continue to be reserved for cases of significant glenoid bone loss or revision settings.