Posterior instability of the glenohumeral joint. A technique of repair

Seventeen patients underwent posterior capsulotendinous tensioning procedures to eliminate recurrent posterior glenohumeral instability. Fourteen patients were evaluated an average of 44 months (range, 18 to 98) after surgery. The average patient age was 27 years. Before surgery, all patients were unable to perform their activities of daily living, occupational activities, and athletic activities. Preoperatively, the average pain rating score on a visual analog scale was 5 of 10 at rest and 9 of 10 with activities. Six patients had previous anterior reconstructions. After surgery, the average range of motion was 174 degrees of forward elevation and 69 degrees of external rotation; internal rotation was to the thumb level of T-8. No patient had a recurrence of posterior instability. After surgery, the average pain rating score was 2 of 10 at rest and 4 of 10 with activities. All patients improved after their operations, but four patients were minimally disabled from activities of daily living; six patients experienced shoulder fatigue at work; and four patients had difficulty with sports activities. Overall, 13 of the 14 patients were satisfied with their surgical procedures and their outcomes.