Open Shoulder Stabilization: Latarjet and Bone Block Procedures
For patients with significant shoulder instability—especially those with bone loss or failed prior surgery—open shoulder stabilization may offer the best long-term solution. Procedures like the Latarjet or bone block augmentation are designed to restore structural stability and prevent recurrent dislocations by reconstructing the bony anatomy of the shoulder socket.
Dr. Seiter performs open shoulder stabilization procedures for patients whose conditions cannot be fully corrected through arthroscopic surgery. Open stabilization surgeries are highly effective in restoring shoulder function, particularly for athletes and individuals with complex instability patterns.
Candidates for Open Shoulder Stabilization
You may be a candidate for a Latarjet or bone block procedure if you:
- Have experienced recurrent shoulder dislocations despite previous surgery
- Have significant bone loss from the front of the shoulder socket
- Have a large Hill-Sachs lesion on the humeral head
- Have a diagnosis of complex shoulder instability that cannot be corrected arthroscopically
- Are an athlete or contact-sport participant with high risk of re-injury
- Have been told you’re not a candidate for arthroscopic labral repair
Dr. Seiter will evaluate your shoulder using physical examination and detailed imaging studies to determine the best approach for stabilization.
About the Procedure
Open shoulder stabilization accesses the shoulder joint through a direct incision rather than arthroscopically. This allows Dr. Seiter to clearly visualize and reconstruct the bony anatomy of the shoulder—especially in cases involving significant bone loss or complex instability patterns that cannot be fully addressed with arthroscopy.
- Latarjet Procedure: The Latarjet is a bone transfer procedure that moves a portion of the coracoid process (a small bony structure from the shoulder blade) to the front of the shoulder socket, thereby enlarging it and providing a “sling effect” that offers both structural and dynamic stability. It is one of the most effective procedures for high-risk patients or those with substantial bone loss.
- Bone Block Augmentation: In cases where the coracoid is not available or additional bone is needed, Dr. Seiter may use a bone graft to reconstruct the front of the shoulder socket, thereby restoring socket depth and preventing the humeral head from slipping out of place. The graft may come from your own tissue or a donor.
Both procedures are performed through a small open incision and are typically reserved for patients with complex instability, failed previous repairs, or recurrent dislocations due to bone loss.
Recovery
Recovery after open shoulder stabilization is more involved than after arthroscopic procedures, but most patients regain excellent shoulder function with proper rehabilitation. In general, patients can expect:
- Sling use for 4 to 6 weeks to protect the surgical repair
- Physical therapy begins within the first 1 to 2 weeks to restore controlled motion
- Strengthening phase begins after 6 to 8 weeks once healing has progressed
- Return to non-contact activities typically within 3 months
- Return to contact sports or high-demand activity around 5 to 6 months
Dr. Seiter and his team will work closely with you to build a personalized recovery plan that balances your healing needs with your lifestyle and activity goals.