Editorial Commentary: Evidence That the Shoulder Latarjet Procedure Results in Scapular Dyskinesia Is Not Compelling

The Latarjet procedure was first described in 1954. It is a nonanatomic procedure that requires transfer of the coracoid process, together with the conjoint tendon, to the anterior glenoid margin. The aim is to prevent recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation through a "triple blocking" effect, which includes restoring bone loss, providing a dynamic sling effect, and performing capsulolabral repair. Despite the long history of the Latarjet procedure, studies evaluating its impact on scapulothoracic kinematics are sparse. However, there is a concern that scapulothoracic dyskinesia may occur owing to anatomic changes, including release of the coracoacromial ligament and pectoralis minor tendon, a change in the working length and vector of the conjoint tendon, subscapularis split, and capsular closure. The existing literature has major limitations and comprises predominantly small conflicting series that identify either no scapulothoracic dyskinesia after Latarjet or the presence of scapular protraction or retraction. Given that scapular dyskinesia is very common in shoulder instability patients and even asymptomatic general populations, the evidence that the Latarjet procedure results in dyskinesia is not compelling.