Even after serious attempts at rest and rehab, you’re still experiencing ongoing pain and that unsettling feeling that your shoulder could ‘pop out’ during the most basic tasks.
If conservative treatments haven’t worked, your surgeon may have advised it’s time to consider a more permanent solution. In this article, we’ll explain the Latarjet procedure: why it’s used, how it works, and what you can expect during your recovery.
1. What is a Latarjet procedure?
A Latarjet procedure is a type of surgery which is used fix shoulder instability. It is often the recommended treatment for people experiencing recurring shoulder dislocations.
The procedure involves your surgeon creating a new barrier that stops the upper arm bone
(humerus) from slipping out of the shoulder socket.
During a Laterjet procedure, the surgeon takes a small piece of bone from a specific part of the shoulder blade called the scapula. This piece of bone (and its attached muscles) is then secured to the front of the shoulder socket using screws.
This creates a physical barrier – that acts somewhat like a ‘bumper’ – providing stability to the shoulder joint and helping to prevent future dislocations.
2. How is a Latarjet procedure done?
A Latarjet procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and involves the following
steps:
- First, your surgeon will start by making an incision on the front of your shoulder. These
incisions are made carefully, leaving as little scar as possible while still giving your
surgeon best access to the structures within the shoulder. - The second stage of the procedure involves your surgeon locating and detaching a small
piece of bone (coracoid) and attached muscles from the scapula. - Once detached this piece of bone (and ligament/muscle) is moved to the front of the
shoulder socket or the ‘glenoid’. It is carefully positioned so it can act as barrier
which prevents the upper arm bone from dislocating. - Once the surgeon is happy with its location, they will use screws to fasten it to your
shoulder. These screws hold the transferred bone in place, keeping it stable while
the bone heals and integrates with the shoulder socket. - The final part of the procedure involves your surgeon closing the incision using sutures.
Finally, they will applying surgical dressings to protect the wound and then you will
be ready to begin your recovery.
3. Who should have a Latarjet procedure?
If you have been recommended a Laterjet procedure, chances are you have experienced
prolonged shoulder instability and have had very little improvement with more conservative
treatments like physiotherapy.
The Latarjet procedure is most often used to help people experiencing recurrent shoulder
dislocations or instability. Generally, there are three reasons why you would need a Laterjet
procedure:
- Recurrent dislocators – you have experienced multiple instances of shoulder dislocation
due to shoulder instability. - Structural issues – you have specific structural abnormalities in the shoulder joint
resulting in dislocations. - High-risk activities – you participate activities or sports that put significant stress on the shoulder joint, increasing the risk of dislocation
To determine whether a Latarjet procedure is appropriate for your condition your surgeon
will assess your medical history, conduct physical examinations, and may request imaging
tests.
4. How painful is a Latarjet procedure?
The Latarjet procedure is done under general anaesthesia, meaning you will be asleep for
the surgery and will not feel any pain.
During the recovery period it is natural to experience some discomfort. While some patients feel little to no pain, others may report feel soreness, pain, or a feeling of tightness around the surgical site.
Pain tolerance varies from person to person and everyone responds differently to surgery. Factors such as the extent of the procedure and your overall health can greatly influence the level of discomfort you may experience.
A combination of pain relief medications, ice packs, and elevation techniques
are very effective in managing post-operative pain.
Your medical team will be able toprovide appropriate pain management to keep you as comfortable as possible as you recover.
5. What is the rehabilitation after a Latarjet Procedure?
As with any surgery, recovery and recovery timelines following a Laterjet procedure can
differ for individuals. The recovery period involves a structured and gradual rehabilitation
process designed to give you the best possible outcome for your surgery. The typical stages
of rehabilitation include:
Immediate post-op period: Following the surgery, you will likelly wear a sling to protect and support the shoulder joint. The sling is designed to reduce strain on the healing tissues and ensures the newly placed bone heals in the right position.
Physical therapy: As you progress in your recovery, your surgeon will give you the go-
ahead to commence physical therapy. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in regaining range of motion, strength, and stability to the shoulder. As part of your physical therapy you may see a physiotherapist who can help you perform gentle exercises that gradually increase in intensity over time.
Gradual progression: As you move through your recovery, you’ll transition from passive range-of-motion exercises to more active ones that engage the muscles around the shoulder joint. These exercises aim to improve flexibility, strength, and overall
shoulder function.
Shoulder stabilisation: The goal of the Latarjet procedure is to improve stability of the
shoulder joint, while the rehabilitation process focuses on strengthening the surrounding muscles to support this stability. Exercises that target the rotator cuff
and other muscle groups involved in shoulder movement will be key part of stabilising the shoulder.
Return to normal activities: As you continue to improve and achieve certain recovery
milestones, your physiotherapist and surgeon will guide you through gradually
reintroducing activities such as lifting, reaching, and performing everyday tasks.
Although your shoulder may be feeling more comfortable quite quickly is it crucial you do
not rush through your recovery.
The rehabilitation timeline varies for each individual, but most people can expect several months of rehabilitation including targeted physical therapy to achieve optimal results. During this period, it’s important to follow your surgeon and physiotherapist’s guidance closely and communicate any concerns or changes in your
condition.
Remember, your medical team, including your orthopaedic surgeon and physiotherapist, will be there to support you at every step of your recovery journey. Open communication, following your tailored rehabilitation plan and patience are key to achieving the best possible outcomes for your shoulder following a Latarjet procedure.
Taking action to cure your shoulder pain
Shoulder pain which flares up at night-time is not something you should ignore. If you are experiencing persistent or worsening pain at night, or upon waking, it’s crucial that you see a shoulder specialist who can determine what’s causing the pain. A specialist, such as Dr. Pant will be able to diagnose (or rule out) some of the most common shoulder problems such as bursitis, arthritis, shoulder impingement, and more.
A shoulder specialist will not only identify the underlying cause of your shoulder problem, but will help you take the essential steps toward reducing your pain and getting a good nights sleep.
