Latarjet Shoulder Stabilisation
How Is Latarjet Shoulder Stabilization Performed?
Latarjet shoulder stabilization is performed to treat recurrent shoulder dislocations, particularly when there is significant bone loss on the front of the glenoid (shoulder socket). The procedure involves transferring a small piece of bone from the coracoid (a projection on the shoulder blade) to the front of the glenoid. This bone graft restores the bony contour of the socket and provides a strong, stable surface to prevent further dislocations. The procedure is performed through an open technique. The transferred bone is fixed in place using screws, and the attached tendons of the coracoid (conjoined tendon) act as a dynamic sling, reinforcing stability during shoulder motion.
What Is the Recovery in the Immediate Postoperative Period?
Hospital stay: Most patients stay 1-2 day in hospital to recover and review pain control and physiotherapy instructions.
Sling: You will wear a sling to protect the shoulder for 6 weeks.
Range of motion: Passive shoulder movement is started under physiotherapist supervision, focusing on gentle mobility while protecting the repair. Active movement and strengthening begin progressively after the initial healing phase.
Ice: Used frequently to control pain and swelling. You should ice for 20 minutes, 3–4 times per day immediately after surgery. An ice/compression machine can be hired from a third party.
Sleep: You may find it more comfortable to sleep in a reclined or semi-upright position with the sling on for the first few weeks.
How Is the Wound Managed?
Bulky dressings will be removed 1–2 days after surgery.
A waterproof underlay dressing should be left on for 2 weeks.
Incisions typically heal within 2 weeks.
Showers are permitted while wounds are covered with waterproof dressings during the first 2 weeks.
Do not submerge incisions in water (baths, pools, or ocean) for 4 weeks.
A wound check with your GP, allied health provider, or our clinic is recommended at 2 weeks.
Absorbable sutures are usually used and do not require removal, though small remnants may surface naturally during healing.
How Do I Manage My Pain After a Latarjet Shoulder Stabilization Procedure?
Your anaesthetist may use a regional nerve block to help control pain immediately after surgery.
Local anaesthetic will also be injected into the shoulder during the procedure.
Use ice regularly (20 minutes, 3–4 times per day). An ice machine may be hired from a third party.
Take prescribed pain medication as directed. Opioids may be used short-term but have known side effects (nausea, constipation, dependence). Non-opioid medications such as paracetamol or anti-inflammatories are preferred when tolerated.
Keep the arm supported in the sling to minimise stress on the graft and soft tissues.
Begin gentle range-of-motion exercises only when directed by your surgeon or physiotherapist.
What Issues Should I Call the Clinic Regarding?
You should contact your surgeon or clinic immediately if you notice:
Increasing redness, swelling, or drainage from the wound.
Persistent or worsening pain not controlled by medication.
Fever, chills, or night sweats.
Numbness, tingling, or loss of movement in the hand or arm.
Any sudden injury or trauma to the operated shoulder.
Prompt review allows early management of potential complications.
When Can I Return to Normal Activities After Latarjet Shoulder Stabilization?
Recovery depends on the type of surgery, healing, and individual progress. As a general guide:
Light daily activities: Immediately, using the non-operated arm.
Progressive shoulder strengthening: Begins around 6–8 weeks under physiotherapist supervision.
Return to contact or overhead sports: Typically 6–9 months after surgery, depending on graft healing and shoulder strength.
When Can I Drive?
You can usually drive once you can safely control the steering wheel and perform emergency maneuvers comfortably. This is typically around 6–8 weeks after surgery. You must not drive while taking strong pain medication (e.g., opioids).
When Can I Return to Work?
Return to work depends on your occupation:
Office or sedentary work: 1–2 weeks, once you can safely commute and perform light tasks with the sling.
Light manual work: 6–8 weeks.
Heavy manual labour or overhead work: 3–4 months or longer, depending on your recovery and surgeon clearance.
Should I See a Physiotherapist?
While not necessary, formal physiotherapy is strongly recommended for optimal recovery after arthroscopic shoulder stabilization. Your physiotherapist will:
Guide you through a structured rehabilitation program that protects the graft while restoring range of motion and strength.
Focus on scapular and rotator cuff control, and gradually progress to functional activities.
Tailor exercises to your sport or occupational demands.
Most patients continue physiotherapy for 4–6 months, with full recovery and return to sport typically achieved between 6 and 9 months.
What Are the Complications After Latarjet Shoulder Stabilization?
While uncommon, potential complications include:
Infection or wound healing problems.
Nerve injury (particularly to the musculocutaneous or axillary nerve).
Loss of motion or shoulder stiffness.
Nonunion or graft resorption (where the bone graft fails to heal properly).
Recurrent instability or redislocation.
Hardware irritation (from screws or fixation devices).
Development of arthritis in the shoulder joint over time.
Complications related to the anaesthetic block (pneumothorax, nerve toxicity, or temporary shortness of breath).
