Dynamic anterior stabilization of the shoulder using buttons.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Current surgical treatments for anterior shoulder instability are categorized by bone loss presence.
• A clinical gap exists for cases needing enhanced stabilization without bone grafting.
• This study investigates a triple soft tissue block technique using an adjustable button for dynamic anterior stabilization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a novel dynamic anterior stabilization technique for shoulder instability.
• To assess functional outcomes and joint stability in patients treated with the adjustable button method.

Main Methods:

• Prospective evaluation of twenty patients undergoing the triple soft tissue block procedure.
• Assessment using University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores pre- and post-surgery.
• Measurement of shoulder external rotation and Rowe score at least 24 months post-surgery; bone loss was also quantified.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements observed in UCLA (25.6 to 34.6) and ASES (84.99 to 97.34) scores (P < .01).
• Rowe score averaged 98.00, exceeding the excellent result standard of 90 (P < .01).
• Minimal average loss of lateral rotation (2.25°) and average bone loss of 8% were recorded.

Conclusions:

• The dynamic anterior stabilization technique using an adjustable button is safe and effective.
• This method successfully addresses recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability, particularly in the gray area between significant bone loss and no bone loss procedures.