Sitemap

Print

Search

Email

Bristow-Latarjet Procedure

This procedure is mainly performed when there is some bone loss from the front of the glenoid (as a result of a bony bankart lesion or repeated dislocations wearing away the front of the glenoid).

The procedure involves transfer of the coracoid with it's attached muscles to the deficient area over the front of the glenoid. This replaces the missing bone and the transferred muscle also acts as an additional muscular strut preventing further dislocations.

The technique we use is that described by Walch & Boileau , which is a modification of the original Latarjet procedure. It has the advantages of improving both the bony and soft tissue problems, with a strong fixation, allowing early active rehabilitation.

Procedure:

The coracoid is divided at it's base, with the coraco-acromial ligament and the conjoined tendon. Pec minor is released from the coracoid.

Subscapularis is split and the capsule opened to expose the front of the glenoid. This is prepared for the transfered coracoid.

The coracoid is fixed to the front of the glenoid and the coraco-acromial ligament is used to reinforce the joint capsule.

The final position is shown below:

When the arm is lifted overhead (abducted and externally rotated), the transferred muscles over the subscapularis act as a muscular strut or restraint, preventing dislocation of the shoulder joint.

Post-operative X-rays:

Your Operation

You must not eat or drink anything after midnight the day before your surgery. When you wake up following the procedure you will be wearing a sling (see picture), which you should keep for 3 weeks.    For more details on Living with a Shoulder Sling CLICK HERE

You may be in hospital overnight after your operation. A physiotherapist will see you in hospital to teach you the appropriate exercises. You may also see an occupational therapist to give you advice regarding the use of your arm.

---

PAIN

A nerve block is usually used during the surgery. This means that immediately after the operation the shoulder and arm often feel completely numb. This may last for a few hours. After this the shoulder may well be sore and you will be given painkillers to help this whilst in hospital. These can be continued after you are discharged home. Ice packs may also help reduce pain. Wrap crushed ice or frozen peas in a damp, cold cloth and place on the shoulder for up to 15 minutes. Ensuring you cover the wound site with a piece of cling film to keep the area dry.
For more information on Pain Control Click Here

THE WOUND

You will have a surgical incision at the front of your shoulder. The stitch is dissolvable and is usually removed or trimmed at 3 weeks. Keep the wound dry until it is well healed. This usually takes 2 weeks.

surgical wound one year after Latarjet procedure

SLEEPING

For the first three weeks your sling should be worn in bed. Sleeping can be uncomfortable if you try and lie on the operated arm. We recommend that you lie on your back or on the opposite side, as you prefer. Ordinary pillows can be used to give you comfort and support. If you are lying on your side one pillow slightly folded under your neck gives enough support for most people. A pillow folded in half supports the arm in front and a pillow tucked along your back helps to prevent you rolling onto the operated shoulder during the night. If you are lying on your back, tie a pillow tightly in the middle (a "butterfly pillow") or use a folded pillow to support your neck. Place a folded pillow under the elbow of the operated arm to support that.

FOLLOW UP APPOINTMENTS

An appointment will be made for you to see the surgeon or specialist therapist 3 weeks post-operatively.

DAILY ACTIVITIES

For the first three weeks all activities of daily living for example feeding, dressing, cooking etc must be carried out using your un-operated arm. If appropriate an occupational therapist will be available to give you advice on how to do this.

LEISURE ACTIVITIES

Your physiotherapist and surgeon will advise you when it is safe to resume your leisure activities . This will vary according to your sport and level, as well as the period required to retrain your shoulder muscles with physiotherapy.

 Below is a rough guide: 

An appointment will be made for you to see a physiotherapist after your discharge and you will be seen by the Shoulder Team 3 weeks post-operatively.

DAILY ACTIVITIES

For the first six weeks all activities of daily living for example feeding, dressing, cooking etc must be carried out using your un-operated arm. If appropriate an occupational therapist will be available to give you advice on how to do this.

LEISURE ACTIVITIES

Your physiotherapist and surgeon will advise you when it is safe to resume your leisure activities . This will vary according to your sport and level, as well as the period required to retrain your shoulder muscles with physiotherapy.

 Below is a rough guide: 

DRIVING

You will not be able to drive for a minimum of 8 weeks. Your surgeon will confirm when you may begin.

  RETURNING TO WORK

This will depend upon the size of your tear and your occupation. You will need to discuss this with your surgeon.

For the post-operative rehabilitation
click here

Also See:

• Long term surgical Results

Print page

Email article

Bookmark this page:

If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss a treatment,
please click here to contact us, or telephone 0161 227 0027.