Glenohumeral instability associated with Buford complex

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Anatomy

Background:

• The Buford complex is an anatomical variant characterized by the absence of the anterosuperior labrum and the presence of a cord-like middle glenohumeral ligament.
• Traditionally, surgical reattachment of the Buford complex to the glenoid has been avoided.
• Its association with glenohumeral instability is increasingly recognized.

Observation:

• A case of a patient with recurrent glenohumeral instability was treated surgically.
• The Buford complex was diagnosed intraoperatively during shoulder arthroscopy.
• The Buford complex was reattached to the glenoid.

Findings:

• The Buford complex, previously not diagnosed preoperatively, was identified during arthroscopy.
• Surgical reattachment of the Buford complex to the glenoid was performed.
• The patient achieved a satisfactory outcome following the procedure.

Implications:

• This case highlights that the Buford complex can be a source of shoulder instability.
• Surgical reattachment of the Buford complex may be a viable treatment option for instability.
• Further discussion on the Buford complex's relationship with intra-articular pathology and surgical management is warranted.