Posterior Instability of the Glenohumeral Joint

Abstract

Seventeen patients underwent posterior capsulotendi nous tensioning procedures to eliminate recurrent pos terior 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° of forward elevation and 69° 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 pa tients were minimally disabled from activities of daily living; six patients experienced shoulder fatigue at work; and four patients had difficulty with sports activ ities. Overall, 13 of the 14 patients were satisfied with their surgical procedures and their outcomes.