Computerized tomographic assessment and clinical evaluation in shoulder instability treated with the Latarjet-Patte procedure using one screw and washer

The Latarjet-Patte (L-P) procedure is indicated in anterior instability of the shoulder with a glenoid or humeral bone loss. Our purpose is to evaluate clinical outcome and computerized tomographic (CT) findings as position and resorption of the graft and articular degeneration. From 2006 to 2009 50 patients underwent to L-P, 48 was contacted by telephone and 26 were available for follow-up (3 to 6 years). Quick-DASH and Rowe scores was used, 22 patients perform CT. None of contacted patients reported a new dislocation. The clinical outcome in the 26 followed patients was excellent: mean Quick DASH score: 1.9; mean ROWE score was 94.7. CT scans showed no evidence of articular degeneration of humeral head. There was partial resorption of the graft in 13 patients. We found a correlation between the zone of partial resorption and position of the graft. CT scan is appropriate to study position and the healing of coracoid graft. A correct choice of where to place the graft together with a wide bone contact and stable synthesis does not cause degenerative changes after 6 years in our series. IV.