Latarjet or bone block is a common procedure to address repetitive shoulder dislocations and improve stability.

The glenoid (shoulder blade) is an important component of the shoulder joint, which is rimmed by cartilage and soft tissue called the labrum. The labrum holds the glenoid into place and allows the shoulder to have a full range of motion.

When the labrum becomes damaged, or glenoid bone loss occurs, latarjet or bone block treatment is often recommended to improve shoulder stability and prevent dislocations. Glenoid bone loss can occur due to fractures, recurrent shoulder dislocations, or traumatic injury. Repetitive overuse of the shoulder can also lead to shoulder instability.

Latarjet or bone block procedure works by attaching a small piece of bone from another part of the body (typically the pelvis or the leg), then relocating it to the glenoid. This bone also contains cartilage and soft tissues to add stability and allow the shoulder to move and rotate smoothly. The bone block acts as a supportive wall for the glenoid and bone to prevent dislocations, instability, and pain.

This procedure can be done through arthroscopy, where a surgeon makes small incisions and performs it by looking at a video monitor that is connected to the arthroscope. By reconstructing the shoulder joint with the piece of bone, the shoulder becomes more stable and is able to regain its full range of motion. This procedure is often recommended when there is significant damage and defects in the glenoid, and repairing the soft tissues and damaged tendons alone will not be sufficient to fix the problem.

The procedure is done under general anaesthesia and can be performed as an outpatient procedure, or may require an overnight stay, depending on the severity of the injury.

• Allows full range of motion in the shoulder joint
• Minimally invasive through arthroscopy
• Resolves shoulder pain, instability, and dislocations
• Improves quality of life
• Strengthens the shoulder muscles

A latarjet or bone block procedure can treat the following conditions:

• Shoulder pain and aches
• Chronic shoulder dislocation
• Limited range of motion
• Muscle weakness and loss of strength
• Traumatic shoulder injury

After the procedure, you can expect to feel soreness in the shoulder. Your entire arm and shoulder may also be swollen. It should start to feel better after a few weeks as the joint starts to heal. If the bone is taken from your pelvis, you may also feel pain in this area for a few weeks.

Your shoulder may be stiff for the first few weeks, but you should regain a full range of motion after physiotherapy sessions and stretching exercises. Follow-up appointments may be required to check on the progress of your shoulder and to prescribe further physiotherapy sessions.

Upon full recovery, patients often experience reduced pain and discomfort in the shoulder, with added stability and improved range of motion.

Work closely with your orthopaedist and follow their recommendations for exercises and activities for the best results. Your orthopaedist can give you a better idea of what to expect based on your individual needs and circumstances.

Typically, only one bone block procedure at a time is required, however, it depends on the complexity and severity of the shoulder injury. Several physiotherapy sessions are often required to improve functionality in the shoulder and speed up healing, as well as to improve muscle strength.