The aim of this study is to compare early clinical results after open and arthroscopic Latarjet stabilization for anterior shoulder instability.

Clinical results of 42 patients (43 shoulders) operated on with an open Latarjet stablisation between 2006 and 2011 were compared to results of 60 patients after arthroscopic procedure performed from 2011 to 2013. All patients were operated on by a single surgeon. Only patients with primary Latarjet stabilization were enrolled in this study. Average age at surgery was respectively 28,4 and 26years.

In open Latarjet group, Rowe score increased from 24,5 to 90,4 points, and Walch–Duplay score increased from 14 to 87,2. In artrhoscopic Latarjet group, Rowe increased from 27 to 81,4 and Walch–Duplay score increased from 20 to 79,6. In open Latarjet group, average RE1 was 61,3 (loss of 8 degrees comparing to opposite shoulder), and RE2 was 78 (loss of 5,9°). In arthroscopic Latarjet group, average RE1 was 58,6 (loss of 16,1° comparing to opposite shoulder), and RE2 was 81,4 (loss of 6,6°). There were 4 revisions (9,3%) in open group: 3 recurrences (6,9%) and 1 graft and screw malposition. In arthroscopic Latarjet group, complications occurred in 5 patients (8,3%): 1 partial graft osteolysis and screw loosening; 3 subluxations (5%)–including 2 screws break and graft fractures and 1 screw break with graft healed properly; 1 medial cutaneous antebrachial nerve lesion. Four revision procedures (6,6%) were performed: 2 screw removals, 1 screw removal and remplissage for patient with properly healed graft and 2 revisions using iliac crest bone block for graft fracture.

Results after open and arthroscopic Latarjet seems to be relatively similar. Further investigations, also concerning radiologic results are necessary to prove advantage of any procedure.