A comparison of deltopectoral versus Judet approach for glenoid exposure

Open reduction-internal fixation via an anterior or posterior approach is a widely used method for treating displaced glenoid fractures. This study aimed to identify the exposure range of the glenoid rim by these 2 approaches (deltopectoral and Judet approaches) and provide reference data for the choice of surgical approach.

Twelve cadaveric shoulders were dissected. Both deltopectoral and Judet approaches were performed on each shoulder to mark the glenoid fracture. In addition, the shoulder was disarticulated to record the exposure range of the glenoid rim.

For the deltopectoral approach, the range of the exposed glenoid rim was from 5:50 to 11:30, which accounted for about 47.2% of the clock face. For the Judet approach, the range of the exposed glenoid rim was from 1:30 to 6:20, which accounted for about 40.3% of the clock face. Along the inferior glenoid, there was an area of partial overlap for the 2 approaches. The superior glenoid rim located from 11:30 to 1:30 was considered inaccessible, as it could not be exposed by the 2 approaches.

Less than 50% of the glenoid rim can be exposed by the deltopectoral or Judet approach. With a single approach, it may be difficult to expose and fix some complex glenoid fractures. The superior part of the glenoid fracture is the non-access area via the deltopectoral or Judet approach.