Arthroscopic versus open Latarjet in the treatment of recurrent anterior shoulder instability: a prospective study

Introduction: To compare the clinical, radiological parameters and the operation time between the open and the arthroscopic Laterjet procedure. Methods: 65 patients were prospectively enrolled and divided in 2 groups: Group A, open Latarjet; Group B arthroscopic Latarjet. The mean followup was 26+/-2 months. All patients were assessed pre-operatively and at final follow-up with: ROWE, DASH, VAS, ROM and physical examination and with computed tomography. The operation length was recorded. Results: At the final follow-up no significative differences was found in ROWE, DASH, VAS, ROM and physical examination. The mean operation time was 119.94 minutes in the Group A and 217.8 minutes in the Group B (P<0.005). At CT Scan the orientation of the screw was 27.1 degrees in the Group A; 21.9 degrees +/- 5.5 degrees in the Group B (P<0.005). No statistical difference was found analyzing the angles of the two screws and the distance between the tip of the screw and the border of the glenoid. There was a decrease of the inferior surface of the glenoid area of 82.3 mm(2) in the Group A and 54.5 mm(2) in the Group B. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study may suggest that arthroscopic approach and open procedure are similar in terms of surgical and clinical results.