Short-term outcomes of arthroscopic Bankart repair versus open Latarjet procedure in high-demand patients with recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation without significant bone loss

Purpose The aim of this study was to compare the short-term outcomes and return to work/sport between open Latarjet procedure and arthroscopic Bankart repair in high-demand patients with recurrent post-traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation without significant bone loss. The authors hypothesized that open Latarjet procedure would allow for an earlier return to work and sports activity with lower rate of recurrence. Patients and methods This is a randomized clinical trial conducted on 30 high-demand patients with recurrent post-traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation. All patients had no significant glenoid or humeral head bone loss. Fifteen patients underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair and 15 patients underwent open Latarjet procedure. The main criteria for assessments were Rowe score, shoulder range of motion, and return to work/sport. Results The main findings of this study were that all patients returned to work/sport and the mean time was 6.4 months postoperatively. Patients who underwent open Latarjet procedure returned to work/sport more rapidly than patients who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair (P=0.021). The mean postoperative Rowe score was higher in patients who underwent open Latarjet procedure. But was not statistically significant. Conclusions Both arthroscopic Bankart repair and open Latarjet procedure are valid surgical options and have adequate outcomes in the treatment of patients with recurrent post-traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation and participate in heavy shoulder activities. But patients with arthroscopic Bankart repair take a longer time to return to work/sport.