Serial Magnetic Resonance Arthrography for a Midsubstance Capsular Tear in a Patient With Traumatic Anterior Shoulder Instability.

The natural history of midsubstance capsular tears (MCTs) is unclear. We herein describe a case of MCT observed using serial magnetic resonance (MR) arthrography. A 46-year-old woman presented with excessive external rotation of the left glenohumeral joint, resulting in an initial anterior dislocation of the left shoulder. She subsequently developed recurrent shoulder joint dislocations. MR arthrography revealed an MCT without a Bankart lesion three months after the initial dislocation. She opted for nonoperative treatment, but the shoulder instability did not improve. The second MR arthrography, nine months after the initial dislocation, showed no natural healing of the MCT. The third MR arthrography, 12 months after the initial dislocation, also showed no natural healing. Her shoulder instability remained persistent. The patient then decided to have surgery. Arthroscopy revealed a large capsular defect extending from the glenoid to the humeral head in the anterior inferior glenohumeral ligamentous complex. The MCT was repaired with the placement of nonabsorbable sutures in a side-to-side fashion. At the final follow-up, three years postoperatively, the patient had no anterior shoulder instability. The Rowe score was 100 points. MR arthrography showed good repair integrity of the MCT at one year postoperatively. Serial MR arthrography was useful for both the patient and the shoulder surgeon in considering the treatment of the MCT, facilitating an accurate and qualitative assessment of whether natural healing of the MCT had been achieved.

Factors Associated With Humeral Avulsion of Glenohumeral Ligament Lesions in Patients With Anterior Shoulder Instability: An Analysis of the MOON Shoulder Instability Cohort.

Background: Humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesions are an uncommon cause of anterior glenohumeral instability and may occur in isolation or combination with other pathologies. As HAGL lesions are difficult to detect via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and arthroscopy, they can remain unrecognized and result in continued glenohumeral instability. Purpose: To compare patients with anterior shoulder instability from a large multicenter cohort with and without a diagnosis of a HAGL lesion and identify preoperative physical examination findings, patient-reported outcomes, imaging findings, and surgical management trends associated with HAGL lesions. Study Design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Patients with anterior glenohumeral instability who underwent surgical management between 2012 and 2020 at 11 orthopaedic centers were enrolled. Patients with HAGL lesions identified intraoperatively were compared with patients without HAGL lesions. Preoperative characteristics, physical examinations, imaging findings, intraoperative findings, and surgical procedures were collected. The Student t test, Kruskal-Wallis H test, Fisher exact test, and chi-square test were used to compare groups. Results: A total of 21 HAGL lesions were identified in 915 (2.3%) patients; approximately one-third (28.6%) of all lesions were visualized intraoperatively but not identified on preoperative MRI. Baseline characteristics did not differ between study cohorts. Compared with non-HAGL patients, HAGL patients were less likely to have a Hill-Sachs lesion (54.7% vs 28.6%; P = .03) or an anterior labral tear (87.2% vs 66.7%; P = .01) on preoperative MRI and demonstrated increased external rotation when their affected arm was positioned at 90° of abduction (85° vs 90°; P = .03). Additionally, HAGL lesions were independently associated with an increased risk of undergoing an open stabilization surgery (odds ratio, 74.6 [95% CI, 25.2-221.1]; P < .001). Conclusion: Approximately one-third of HAGL lesions were missed on preoperative MRI. HAGL patients were less likely to exhibit preoperative imaging findings associated with anterior shoulder instability, such as Hill-Sachs lesions or anterior labral pathology. These patients underwent open procedures more frequently than patients without HAGL lesions.

Methods to analyse the long head of the biceps in the management of distal ruptures of the supraspinatus tendon. Part 1: the concept of the "biceps box": dynamic rotator interval approach. Incidence of lesions of the long head of the biceps tendon.

INTRODUCTION: The area encompassing the long head of the biceps (LHB) can be represented as a rectangular parallelepiped. This geometric view can be likened to a box, the "biceps box", where the sides are the extrinsic structures and the LHB is the intrinsic structure. Since these structures are mobile in relation to each other, a dynamic "biceps box" model can modify assessments of the LHB, in its healthy or pathological state, and make the therapeutic approach to treating LHB lesions less arbitrary. MATERIAL AND METHOD: In order to describe the different sides of the "biceps box", and to understand their possible physiological and pathological consequences, a literature review using PRISMA methodology was used. RESULTS: The supraspinatus (SSP) has expansions on its anterior aspect that project anteriorly and cross the coracohumeral ligament (CHL). The most functionally important expansion is the fasciculus obliquus, which extends perpendicular to the axis of the tendon fibers of the SSP, divides the CHL into a deep and a superficial layer, and terminates on the superficial aspect of the subscapularis. The humeral insertion of the SSP may be binary, making a bridge over the LHB, with a posterior branch inserting on the greater tuberosity and an anterior branch on the lesser tuberosity. The superior glenohumeral ligament (SGHL) has a twisted course, downward and forward, and ends at the proximal opening of the bicipital groove with a flap on which the LHB rests. The bicipital pulley is not an independent structure but an arciform structure resulting from the fusion of several tissues. DISCUSSION: The presence of structures linked together by common expansions in the 3 planes of space validates the relevance of a "biceps box" as a functional geometric model. The structure that acts as a crossroads through which all expansions pass is the CHL. An extrinsic SSP lesion can be compensated for by other "biceps box" structures, whereas an extrinsic SGHL lesion rarely exists without the presence of an intrinsic LHB lesion. The CHL constitutes a connective tissue crossed by a vasculonervous pedicle from the lateral pectoral nerve, which may explain some anterior shoulder pain attributed to the biceps. CONCLUSION: The LHB can be likened to an intrinsic structure contained in a box whose sides are made up of different interconnected stabilizing structures defining the extrinsic structures. The concept of a dynamic "biceps box" allows LHB lesions to be accurately classified, separating extrinsic and intrinsic lesions, and thus potentially modifying therapeutic approaches to the LHB. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV; systematic review.

Preemptive middle glenohumeral ligament release in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair does not reduce the postoperative stiffness: a retrospective comparative study.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of preemptive middle glenohumeral ligament (MGHL) release in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) to reduce postoperative stiffness. METHODS: Patients who underwent ARCR were enrolled and allocated into two groups retrospectively: the preemptive MGHL release group (n = 44) and the preemptive MGHL non-release group (n = 42). Clinical outcomes were assessed and compared between the two groups, including the range of motion, Japanese Orthopedic Association Shoulder Score, Constant Shoulder Score, and the University of California, Los Angeles Score preoperatively and 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively and complications. The integrity of the repaired tendon was assessed at the 12-month follow-up using magnetic resonance imaging. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the groups in all range of motion and all functional scores at any of the assessed time points. There was also no significant difference in the healing failure rate 2.3% in the preemptive MGHL group and 2.4% in the preemptive MGHL non-release group (p = .97), and postoperative stiffness was 2.3% in the preemptive MGHL group and 7.1% in the preemptive MGHL non-release group (p = .28). There was no postoperative instability in both group. CONCLUSION: ARCR effectively facilitates the recovery of range of motion and function in patients with a rotator cuff tear. However, preemptive MGHL release could not be an effective method to reduce postoperative stiffness.

Outcomes of Open Versus Arthroscopic Treatment of HAGL Tears.

BACKGROUND: Lesions that involve humeral avulsions of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGLs), although less common, are primary contributors to recurrent events of dislocation and subluxation of the glenohumeral joint. PURPOSE: To describe the clinical presentation, examination, and surgical outcomes of patients presenting with HAGL lesions who underwent repair using an arthroscopic or open technique. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: A multicenter retrospective review of prospectively collected data was performed of skeletally mature patients without glenohumeral arthritis who presented with HAGL lesions and subsequently underwent arthroscopic or open repair between 2005 and 2017. Independent variables included patient characteristics, clinical presentation, physical examination findings, and arthroscopic findings. Dependent variables included pre- and postoperative Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) score, Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) score, and range of motion outcomes. RESULTS: Eighteen patients diagnosed with a HAGL lesion who underwent primary arthroscopic repair (n = 7) or open repair (n = 11) were included. There were 17 male patients and 1 female patient with a mean age of 24.9 years (range, 16-38 years). Mean follow-up duration was 50.9 months (range, 24-160 months). Seventeen patients (94.4%) reported pain as the most common symptom, and 7 (38.9%) reported sensation of instability. Scores significantly improved from pre- to postoperative for the arthroscopic and open groups (P < .001): SANE (mean ± SD; arthroscopic, 30.7 ± 15.7 to 92.1 ± 12.2; open, 45.5 ± 8.50 to 90.7 ± 5.24) and WOSI (arthroscopic, 51.4 ± 11.4 to 2.49 ± 3.70; open, 45.5 ± 7.37 to 11.5 ± 5.76). The magnitude of improvement in SANE scores was significantly higher for patients treated arthroscopically (Δ60.0; open, Δ46.5; P = .012). Postoperative WOSI scores were also significantly better in the arthroscopic cohort (2.49 ± 3.70; open, 11.5 ± 5.76; P = .00094). CONCLUSION: Symptomatic HAGL tears present primarily with pain as opposed to instability, necessitating a high index of suspicion for injury. The tears may be treated successfully with an arthroscopic or open technique with significant improvements in patient-reported outcomes and stability.

Effect of glenohumeral ligaments on posterior shoulder stabilization: a biomechanical study.

OBJECTIVES: To theoretically confirm that the glenohumeral ligament (GHL), specifically the inferior glenohumeral ligament (IGHL), plays an important role in posterior shoulder stability in different postures, and to provide reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment of posterior shoulder instability (PSI). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective study, bone-ligament-bone models were established in 15 fresh adult shoulder joint specimens and selective cutting was performed for analysis. The humeral head was loaded posteriorly at a central pressure of 22N using the INSTRON8874 biomechanical testing system and the load-displacement curve was plotted. The posterior displacement of the humeral head was measured after continuous cutting of the following structures: (1) complete; (2) superior glenohumeral ligament (SGHL); (3) SGHL + middle glenohumeral ligament (MGHL); (4) SGHL + MGHL + IGHL; (5) MGHL; (6) MGHL + IGHL; (7) anterior-bundle IGHL (IGHL-AB); (8) posterior-bundle IGHL (IGHL-PB); (9) IGHL. The results obtained were analyzed using the SPSS10.0 statistical software. RESULTS: Favorable posterior stability of the complete bone-ligament-bone model was observed, with an average displacement of 11.32±3.89 mm. The displacement of SGHL and SGHL + MGHL groups was not significantly increased compared with that in the complete group (P>0.05). After cutting of SGHL + MGHL + IGHL, the posterior displacement of all angles increased (P<0.05), resulting in PSI that was manifested in dislocation or subluxation. There was no obvious increase in posterior displacement after cutting the IGHL-AB (P>0.05). Significantly increased posterior displacement was observed at 45° abduction after cutting the IGHL-PB compared with the complete group, but not at the 90° abduction. The posterior displacement increased obviously at both 45° and 90° abduction when the IGHL was completely cut off (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Repairing the IGHL plays a certain role in rebuilding the posterior stability of the shoulder joint. Detecting the function of the IGHL in the abduction and external rotation positions of the shoulder joint has certain significance for diagnosing PSI.

Role of middle glenohumeral ligament in external shoulder rotation.

Background: The middle glenohumeral ligament (MGHL) is one of the three ligaments that stabilize the anterior capsule of the shoulder. Recent work suggests that it inserts distally into the deep layer of the subscapularis tendon. The role of the MGHL remains debated. The hypothesis of this study was that the MGHL plays a significant functional role in limiting external rotation of the shoulder while allowing a wide range of motion through its distal insertion into the subscapularis rather than directly onto the humerus. Methods: In a cadaveric study performed on 20 shoulders (10 subjects), the MGHL and the other anterior structures of the shoulder were successively cut according to a standardized protocol. At each stage, the external rotation range of the shoulder was measured with the arm at the side (ER 1) and in 90° abduction (ER 2) using a goniometer. After dissection, the structure of the MGHL and its distal insertion were analyzed. Results: Cutting the MGHL led to significant increases in ER 1 but not in ER 2. Shoulder range of motion in ER 1 increased on average by 15 ± 5° (P < .001) after cutting the MGHL and by 21 ± 11° (P < .001) after subscapularis peel. The range of motion in ER 2 increased by 3 ± 4° (P = .048) after cutting the MGHL, by 4 ± 6° (P = .02) after subscapularis peel and by 25 ± 8° (P < .001) after cutting the inferior glenohumeral ligament. The MGHL was present in all dissected shoulders. It was leaf-like in 12 cases, cord-like in 6 cases and had a vestigial appearance in 2 cases. The distal insertion was in all cases in the deep layer of the subscapularis in a thickening of the anterior capsule in the superior part of the muscle, except for two cases in which the tendinous part of the subscapularis was also involved. Conclusion: The MGHL limited shoulder external rotation by a similar amount as the subscapularis muscle. Further studies are required to understand the clinical relevance of these findings, notably for the treatment of shoulder stiffness.

Arthroscopic findings of the glenohumeral joint in symptomatic anterior instabilities: comparison between overhead throwing disorders and traumatic shoulder dislocation.

BACKGROUND: The term shoulder instability refers to a variety of mechanisms and clinical presentations. One of the common pathologies of throwing disorders is internal impingement with anterior instability. Most throwing athletes with symptomatic internal impingement with anterior instability exhibit positive apprehension and relocation test results, whereas those with recurrent anterior shoulder instability display positive apprehension test results. While the glenoid labrum-inferior glenohumeral ligament complex is a significant critical stabilizer for the prevention of anterior shoulder dislocation, the characteristics of the essential lesion in internal impingement with anterior instability have not been determined yet. This study aimed to compare the intra-articular lesion of athletes with internal impingement related to the overhead throwing motion in athletes with a traumatic shoulder dislocation. METHODS: Sixty-one athletes (all men; mean age, 25.2 ± 12.6 yr) who underwent an arthroscopic procedure were divided into 2 groups: 25 in the throwing group and 36 in the dislocation group. All shoulders had subtle glenohumeral instability defined by a positive anterior apprehension test and a relocation test. Those with voluntary and multidirectional instability and large glenoid bone loss (more than 25%) were excluded from the current study. All shoulders were evaluated for the following evidence: rotator cuff injury, superior labrum tear anterior and posterior lesions, labral pathologies including Bankart lesions, osteochondral lesions to the humeral head, biceps tendon fraying or rupture, and inferior glenohumeral ligament and middle glenohumeral ligament (MGHL) conditions. RESULTS: Arthroscopic findings of the throwing group showed more supraspinatus injuries (92% and 25%, P < .001), type II superior labrum tear anterior and posterior lesions (60% and 3%, P < .001), posterosuperior labral lesions (92% and 39%, P < .001), and hypoplastic MGHLs (56% and 6%, P < .001) and lesser Bankart lesions (8% and 92%, P < .05) than those of the dislocation group. CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that the characteristic lesions of internal impingement with anterior instability in throwing athletes include partial thickness rotator cuff tears, superior labrum tear anterior and posterior lesions, posterosuperior labral tears, and hypoplastic MGHLs. As expected, the physiopathology of internal impingement with anterior instability in throwing athletes may be related to the dysfunction of the anterosuperior glenohumeral capsular ligament, including the MGHL, rather than the inferior glenohumeral ligament as in traumatic anterior shoulder dislocations. These findings would be useful for defining treatment strategies for internal impingement with anterior instability in overhead throwing athletes.

Indications, management, and outcomes of humeral avulsions of the glenohumeral ligament: a systematic review.

Purpose: To provide an updated overview of recent literature regarding the clinical indications, management, and outcomes of humeral avulsions of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesion. Methods: Medline, Cochrane and Embase were systematically searched using keywords "humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament" and others to identify studies reporting on management of HAGL lesions. Studies were double-screened and reviewed by two blinded authors according to selection criteria. Data was systematically extracted on the following topics: demographics, mechanism of injury, indication for treatment, treatment, post-operative complications, associated injuries, and outcomes including clinical outcome scores, clinical evaluations, and return to activity. Results: There were 14 studies included that evaluated a total of 119 patients with HAGL lesions. In these studies, 69% of patients were male with a mean age of 24 years. Sports (23.5%) and fitness training (41.2%) were the most common injury mechanisms. Instability was the most common indication for treatment, followed by pain and recurrent dislocations. 85 associated lesions were reported, with non-descript labral tears (34.5%) and Bankart lesions (22.4%) being the most common. Out of patients treated, 117 of 119 patients were treated operatively, with 60 open and 57 arthroscopic procedures. A variety of clinical outcome scores showed postoperative functional shoulder improvement and 97% of patients were able to return to some level of activity. Conclusions: HAGL lesions commonly present with associated injuries, necessitating a high clinical awareness of their presentation and management options to prevent undiagnosed lesions that can lead to persistent instability and pain. Surgical management yields good clinical outcomes.

Association Between Medial Displacement of the Middle Glenohumeral Ligament and Subscapularis Tear Severity.

Background: The intraoperative invisible middle glenohumeral ligament (MGHL) test has been shown to be associated with a subscapularis tendon retraction. However, the preoperative location of the MGHL and its association with subscapularis tear severity has not been evaluated. Purpose: To determine (1) the interrater reliability for identification and position of the MGHL, (2) any association between the MGHL position and subscapularis tears, and (3) the cutoff point at which MGHL position can predict subscapularis tear severity. Study Design: Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2. Methods: The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and surgical records of 176 patients were retrospectively reviewed by 3 independent orthopaedists. MGHL's identification, level (its position on axial MRI), and medial retraction ratio (distance from the lesser tuberosity to the MGHL divided by the width of the glenoid) were documented, and the interobserver agreement of the 3 indices was assessed. We calculated the association between subscapularis tears and the MGHL level and medial retraction ratio. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were conducted to establish the optimal threshold of the MGHL medial retraction ratio to predict subscapularis tear. Results: The MGHL was identified by at least 2 reviewers in 124 individuals (70.5%). The interobserver reliability was very good for MGHL identification (κ = 0.766), moderate for MGHL level (κ = 0.582), and excellent for MGHL medial retraction ratio (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.848). A low, positive correlation between MGHL level and subscapularis tear severity was found (Somers d = 0.392, P < .001), as well as a significant association between the medial retraction ratio and Lafosse classification of subscapularis tear size (P < .001). A medial retraction ratio of ≥1.25 had a sensitivity of 0.70, a specificity of 0.83, and a positive likelihood ratio of 4.20, with excellent accuracy (area under the ROC curve = 0.820) to predict severe subscapularis tear. Conclusion: The MGHL was identified in 70.5% of shoulder MRIs. The location of the MGHL on preoperative MRI, as described by its level and the medial retraction ratio, was significantly associated with subscapularis tear severity, and a medial retraction ratio of ≥1.25 was predictive of a severe subscapularis tear.

The safety and efficacy of 2 anterior-inferior portals for arthroscopic repair of anterior humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament: cadaveric comparison.

BACKGROUND: Humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesions are associated with shoulder instability. Arthroscopic repair of anterior HAGL lesions typically requires the placement of an anterior-inferior (5-o'clock) portal, with different variations of this portal described. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of described anterior-inferior shoulder arthroscopy portals for arthroscopic anterior HAGL repair, as well as evaluate the safety of these portals with respect to the surrounding neurovascular structures. Additionally, we sought to evaluate the effect of arm adduction vs. standard abduction during anterior-inferior portal creation. METHODS: HAGL lesions were created and repaired using an all-arthroscopic technique in 12 cadaveric shoulders (matched pairs). Half of the repairs were performed using a standard 5-o'clock portal, whereas the other half of the matched pairs were repaired using a medialized 5-o'clock portal. Repairs were timed, and the number of anchor pullouts was recorded. The shoulders were subsequently dissected to measure the proximity of the portal to the cephalic vein, musculocutaneous nerve, axillary nerve, and lateral cord of the brachial plexus. RESULTS: The average time for HAGL repair was 18.0 ± 4.6 minutes. Repair times using the medial 5-o'clock portal (19.0 ± 3.3 minutes) vs. standard 5-o'clock portal (16.2 ± 5.8 minutes) were not significantly different (P = .37). From abduction to adduction, the cephalic vein distance from the standard 5-o'clock portal increased from 4.1 ± 4.7 mm to 5.2 ± 5.4 mm (P = .02); musculocutaneous nerve distance, from 14.4 ± 9.8 mm to 18.1 ± 10.8 mm (P = .005); axillary nerve distance, from 19.2 ± 9.6 mm to 19.8 ± 9.2 mm (P = .12); and distance of the lateral cord of the brachial plexus, 13.8 ± 6.6 mm to 16.7 ± 6.4 mm (P = .0006). CONCLUSIONS: The arm abduction angle significantly affects the distance of the cephalic vein, musculocutaneous nerve, and lateral cord of the brachial plexus from the anterior-inferior portal, regardless of which portal-standard or medial 5-o'clock portal-is chosen. This portal should be created with the arm in adduction. Arthroscopic HAGL repair can be performed safely, although accurate anchor placement remains a challenge. There was no advantage to use of the medial 5-o'clock portal. With a curved guide, the standard 5-o'clock portal allows for reproducible anchor placement and is recommended for anterior HAGL repairs.

Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Humeral Avulsion Glenohumeral Ligament Lesions in the Setting of Anterior Shoulder Instability: A Retrospective Comparative Study.

BACKGROUND: Humeral avulsion glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesions are often underreported but have been shown to occur in up to 10% of cases of anterior shoulder instability. PURPOSE: To compare clinical outcomes and recurrence rates of patients with HAGL lesions undergoing open stabilization for anterior shoulder instability versus a pair-matched control. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: A retrospective review of all patients who underwent both arthroscopic and open stabilization procedures with a minimum 24-month follow-up was performed. Patients with HAGL lesions were pair-matched in a 1:6 ratio for age, sex, sport, level of preoperative play, and follow-up length with those without HAGL lesions who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair alone. Return to play (RTP), the level of return, and the timing of return were assessed. In addition, recurrence, visual analog scale for pain (VAS), Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), Rowe score, satisfaction, and whether they would undergo the same surgery again were compared. RESULTS: A total of 15 patients with HAGL lesions who underwent shoulder stabilization procedures were included, with a mean age of 21.5 ± 4.1 years and mean follow-up of 53.5 ± 17.4 months, and were pair-matched to 90 patients without HAGL lesions. Overall, there was no significant difference in any of the clinical outcome scores (VAS, Rowe, SSV, satisfaction) used between the 2 groups (1.6 vs 1.7, P = .86; 83.4 vs 88.0, P = .06; 85.7 vs 87.2, P = .76; and 86.7% vs 94.5%, P = .26, respectively). In addition, there were no significant differences in terms of overall rates, levels, and timing of RTP between the 2 groups (93.3% vs 90.0%, P > .99; 80.0% vs 78.9%, P > .99; and 5.3 ± 2.2 vs 5.9 ± 2.9 months, P = .45, respectively). There was no significant difference in the rates of apprehension, subluxation, and recurrent instability between the HAGL and pair-matched control groups (26.7% vs 26.7%, P > .99; 6.7% vs 3.3%, P = .47; and 13.3% vs 6.7% months, P = .32, respectively). CONCLUSION: Patients with anterior shoulder instability undergoing surgical stabilization with open HAGL repair demonstrate excellent functional outcomes and high rates of RTP, with low rates of recurrence in the medium term compared with a control group without HAGL lesions who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair alone.

The middle glenohumeral ligament: a classification based on arthroscopic evaluation.

BACKGROUND: Although middle glenohumeral ligament (MGHL) variations have been shown in the literature, their clinical effect and relationship with intra-articular pathologies have yet to be revealed, except for the Buford complex. This study was designed to classify MGHL and to reveal its relationship with clinical pathologies. METHODS: A total of 843 consecutive shoulder arthroscopies were evaluated retrospectively, and a classification system was proposed for MGHL with regard to its structure and its relation to the anterior labrum. The associations of each MGHL type with superior labrum anterior-posterior (SLAP) lesions, subscapularis tears, and anterior instability were investigated. RESULTS: MGHL variations were grouped into 6 types according to the classification. A significant difference in favor of type 6 MGHL (Buford complex) was observed in the distribution of SLAP lesions (P < .001). There was no significant difference between MGHL types and the distribution of anterior instability history (P = .131) and subscapularis tears (P = .324). CONCLUSION: SLAP lesions accompany type 6 MGHLs (Buford complex) significantly more frequently than other types. There is also a negative relation between the anterior instability and thicker MGHL variants.

The biomechanical effect of injury and repair of the inferior glenohumeral ligament on glenohumeral stability: Contribution of the posterior band.

BACKGROUND: Many surgical procedures are proposed to manage shoulder instability with recurrent dislocation but there is still a high rate of failure or complications. Repairs are often limited to anterior part of inferior glenohumeral ligament but some authors are reporting better clinical results if its posterior band is also repaired. This biomechanical study aimed to investigate the impact of a supplementary posterior injury compared with an isolated anterior injury and to analyze the contribution of a posterior repair of the inferior glenohumeral ligament compared with an isolated anterior repair. METHODS: Six fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders were tested intact and after both anterior and posterior injuries and repairs of the inferior glenohumeral ligament. Shoulders were placed at 90° of humerothoracic elevation in scapular plane and 60° of external rotation. Joint stability was analyzed by successively applying anterior, posterior, inferior and superior glenohumeral displacements and measuring the resulting forces or by applying an anteroinferior loading and measuring three-dimensional head displacements. Maximal range of external rotation was also measured. FINDINGS: Combined anterior and posterior injuries of the inferior glenohumeral ligament were necessary to obtain significant instabilities in anterior and inferior directions. A complementary repair of the posterior band improved the biomechanical stability of the glenohumeral joint compared to an isolated anterior repair when anterior and posterior bands are injured. No reduction of external rotation was observed after repairs compared to intact condition. INTERPRETATION: These results show the biomechanical interest of this surgical procedure and contribute to document its relevance in clinical practice.

Preoperative and postoperative shoulder position sense in patients who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair for traumatic shoulder joint instability.

BACKGROUND: Proprioceptive feedback is a reflex dislocation prevention mechanism that contributes to shoulder joint stability. In patients with Bankart lesions, the anteroinferior glenohumeral ligament complex is damaged and reduces the likelihood of tensile stress. As a result, proprioceptive feedback does not work, which leads to instability. Surgical reconstruction is indicated to restore proprioception, but the details of recovery after arthroscopic surgery are unknown. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether arthroscopic Bankart repair can improve the position sense of the shoulder. METHODS: We used the isokinetic dynamometer Biodex System 3 (Biodex, Shirley, NY, USA) to investigate preoperative and postoperative joint position sense in 140 shoulders (137 men, 3 women) undergoing arthroscopic Bankart repair for traumatic shoulder joint instability. The control subjects comprised 40 shoulders of healthy volunteers (all men). Active position sense was measured by setting the shoulder external rotation to 75° based on 90° abduction and neutral internal/external rotation position. Reproductive angle inaccuracy (RAI) was measured thrice, and the mean value was calculated. The RAI was measured preoperatively, 6 months and 1 year postoperatively, and at the final observation (range, 16-96 months; mean, 31.5 months). RESULTS: Mean RAI was significantly higher (6.4°) preoperatively in the traumatic shoulder instability group than in the control group (5.0°). Mean postoperative RAI changed to 5.0, 4.9, and 4.7° at 6 months, 1 year, and final observation, respectively (mean, 31.5 months). RAI recovered to the same level as the control group at 6 months after the surgery and was maintained the same level until final observation. CONCLUSION: Position sense was significantly worse in patients with traumatic shoulder joint instability than in healthy volunteers, and a significant improvement in position sense was observed after reconstruction of the anteroinferior glenohumeral ligament complex by arthroscopic Bankart repair. Therefore, arthroscopic Bankart repair is a favorable procedure that can improve the position sense of the shoulder in patients with traumatic shoulder instability.

Mapping of the Inferior Glenohumeral Ligament for Suture Pullout Strength: A Biomechanical Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Suture pullout during rehabilitation may result in loss of tension in the inferior glenohumeral ligament (IGHL) and contribute to recurrent instability after capsular plication, performed with or without labral repair. To date, the suture pullout strength in the IGHL is not well-documented. This may contribute to recurrent instability. PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS: A cadaveric biomechanical study was designed to investigate the suture pullout strength of sutures in the IGHL. We hypothesized that there would be no significant variability of suture pullout strength between specimens and zones. Additionally, we sought to determine the impact of early mobilization on sutures in the IGHL at time zero. We hypothesized that capsular plication sutures would fail under low load. STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive laboratory study. METHODS: Seven fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders were dissected to isolate the IGHL complex, which was then divided into 18 zones. Sutures in these zones were attached to a linear actuator, and the resistance to suture pullout was recorded. A suture pullout strength map of the IGHL was constructed. These loads were used to calculate the load applied at the hand that would initiate suture pullout in the IGHL. RESULTS: Mean suture pullout strength for all specimens was 61.6 ± 26.1 N. The maximum load found to cause suture pullout through tissue was found to be low, regardless of zone of the IGHL. Calculations suggest that an external rotation force applied to the hand of only 9.6 N may be sufficient to tear capsular sutures at time zero. CONCLUSION: This study did not provide clear evidence of desirable locations for fixation in the IGHL. However, given the low magnitude of failure loads, the results suggest the timetable for initiation of range-of-motion exercises should be reconsidered to prevent suture pullout through the IGHL. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: From this biomechanical study, the magnitude of force required to cause suture pullout through the IGHL is met or surpassed by normal postoperative early range-of-motion protocols.

The Buford complex: prevalence and relationship with labral pathologies.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of the Buford complex and to investigate its association with labral pathologies (superior labrum anterior-posterior [SLAP] lesion and anterior, posterior, or multidirectional instability) using a very large patient database. Furthermore, the prevalence of the Buford complex in patients without any labral pathology was also determined. METHODS: A total of 3129 consecutive shoulder arthroscopy procedures were retrospectively evaluated for the presence of the Buford complex and coexisting labral pathologies. The relationships between the Buford complex and SLAP lesions, as well as instability, were evaluated statistically. RESULTS: The Buford complex was observed in 83 shoulders (2.65%). SLAP lesions were significantly more frequent in patients with the Buford complex than in those without it (81.9% vs. 33.1%, P < .001) Shoulders with the Buford complex presented a lower frequency of anterior instability (10.8% vs. 19.3%, P = .052) and a higher frequency of posterior instability (1.2% vs. 0.9%, P = .789). The prevalence of the Buford complex in patients with and without labral pathologies was 4.6% and 0.3%, respectively (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: This study, to our knowledge, includes the largest cohort in the literature reporting the prevalence of the Buford complex (2.65%). In the 1461 patients without labral tears or multidirectional instability, the prevalence of the Buford complex was 0.3%. This result suggests that the real prevalence of the Buford complex might be lower than that reported previously. In addition to the aforementioned conclusions, the identification of the Buford complex should prompt a thorough evaluation for concomitant SLAP lesions.

Comma sign of subscapularis tear: diagnostic performance and magnetic resonance imaging appearance.

BACKGROUND: The main aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and interobserver agreement in the identification of the comma sign. The second objective was to look for a correlation between the comma sign and the detachment of the superficial fascia of the subscapularis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two radiologists, blinded to the arthroscopic findings, retrospectively assessed the magnetic resonance images of 110 shoulders and were asked to assess the presence of the comma sign and the intact subscapularis fascia. The inter-reader agreement and the MRI performance values for detection of the comma sign were calculated. In addition, the association between the intact superficial subscapularis fascia and the comma sign was evaluated. RESULTS: The agreement between the 2 radiologists was perfect. The following values were obtained: sensitivity, 90.9%; specificity, 98.8%; positive predictive value, 95.2%; negative predictive value, 97.7%; and accuracy, 97.2%. No association between the comma sign and subscapularis fascia lesions was found. CONCLUSION: MRI appears to be a reliable method for preoperative assessment of the comma sign. The comma sign appears not to be formed by the detached subscapularis fascia.

The Invisible MGHL Test: Diagnostic Value and Benefits for the Repair of Retracted Subscapularis Tears.

BACKGROUND: Some full-thickness subscapularis tendon tears and partial tears of the deep layer are difficult to characterize, leading to misdiagnosis. PURPOSE: To evaluate the association between displacement of the middle glenohumeral ligament (MGHL) and retracted tears of the subscapularis tendon as a possible test to improve diagnosis. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: Videos (N = 100) recorded during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair involving a torn subscapularis tendon were analyzed retrospectively to assess the association between the MGHL test (nonvisibility of the MGHL) and other objective anatomic criteria. The invisible MGHL test was defined as positive if the MGHL was initially nonvisible in the beach-chair position and appeared only when the subscapularis tendon was pulled back into position by using a 30° arthroscope from the standard posterior portal. The parameters considered during the initial exploration were (1) visibility of the horizontal part of the subscapularis tendon; (2) visibility of the MGHL in its usual position, crossing the superior border of the subscapularis tendon; (3) exposure of the lateral border of the subscapularis tendon (full-thickness retracted tear); and (4) complete or partial exposure of the lesser tuberosity of the humerus. Tendon retraction was evaluated in 3 stages according to the Patte classification. RESULTS: The invisible MGHL test result was positive in 45% of cases. It was positive in 6% of cases (2 of 31) when there was no subscapularis tendon retraction and in 62% of cases (43 of 69) when there was partial or complete retraction (P < .001). The invisible MGHL test was significantly associated with the width of the tear (P < .001) and exposure of the lateral border of the subscapularis tendon (full-thickness retracted tear, P = .0002). After repair, the MGHL was visible in its anatomic position in 96% of cases. CONCLUSION: A positive invisible MGHL test is an alternative indication of subscapularis tendon retraction, and the relocation of the MGHL can also be used after repair to assess the proper anatomic repositioning of the subscapularis tendon.

Arthroscopic anatomy of the middle glenohumeral ligament. A series of 300 cases.

PURPOSE: The anatomy of the middle glenohumeral ligament (MGHL) is seldomly described during arthroscopy. The aim of this study was to determine the arthroscopic variants concerning the anatomy of the MGHL. METHODS: A prospective, observational, single-center study was conducted between June 2016 and June 2017. All patients undergoing a first-time arthroscopy of the shoulder and with no history of prior surgery or trauma of the same shoulder were consecutively enrolled. The variations of the MGHLs shape and of its glenoid and distal insertions were documented during surgery. RESULTS: A total 300 patients were included. Surgeries included rotator cuff sutures, tenotomy/tenodesis of the long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) and subacromial decompression in respectively 31%, 32.7% and 35.5% of cases. The MGHL was absent in 12% of cases, presented a flat structure in 72% of cases, a cord-like shape in 14% and a Buford complex was observed in 1%. Its glenoid insertion was located on the labrum between the superior (SGHL) and inferior (IGHL) in 43% of cases, presented a combined insertion with the LHBT in 7%, with the SGHL in 29% and with both the SGHL and LHBT in 9%. The distal insertion was located in 67% of cases on the subscapularis tendon (SCCT) or the capsule covering it, and on the humeral bone in 21%. CONCLUSION: This study confirms and details the anatomic variants of the MGHL, notably describing the lesser-known variants of its distal insertion, yet arises the question of the exact nature and function of this so-called ligament.