Results of a modified Putti-Platt operation for recurrent shoulder dislocations and subluxations

In 78 consecutive cases of a modified Putti-Platt operation using an anterior shoulder incision, only on recurrent dislocation occurred in a 19-year-old male athlete who suffered an insulin seizure. All other patients have returned to athletic activity. This study indicates that external rotation is greater if measured with the arm at 90 degrees of abduction. Inasmuch as this is the more functional position for the arm, measurements to determine limitation of shoulder rotation should be done in this position. Results show that there is a definite individual variation in external rotation of the shoulder. The Putti-Platt operation limits external rotation by 12 degrees to 19 degrees as measured at 90 degrees of abduction. This however, has not been a functional problem in any of our patients. The modified Putti-Platt operation is a sound, surgical procedure that gives excellent functional results in an athletic population.