Anterior Shoulder Instability: Pre- and Postoperative Imaging.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Radiology
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Anterior glenohumeral instability treatment algorithms are evolving.
• Soft tissue injuries like labrum and ligament tears are key in primary interventions.
• Bone lesions, especially bipolar bone loss within the glenoid track model, are increasingly recognized as critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evolving landscape of anterior shoulder instability treatment.
• To highlight the importance of identifying and measuring bone lesions in treatment planning.
• To detail imaging assessment for both soft tissue and bone injuries, pre- and post-operatively.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on anterior glenohumeral instability.
• Discussion of anatomical considerations.
• Analysis of preoperative and postoperative imaging techniques for soft tissue and bone lesions.

Main Results:

• Accurate identification and measurement of soft tissue injuries remain vital for primary repairs.
• Bone lesions, particularly bipolar bone loss, significantly impact treatment strategies, especially in revision cases.
• Comprehensive imaging is essential for effective surgical planning.

Conclusions:

• Evolving treatment algorithms necessitate a thorough understanding of both soft tissue and bone pathology.
• Precise imaging assessment of bone lesions is crucial for successful management of anterior glenohumeral instability.
• This review provides a framework for imaging assessment in complex cases.