Arthroscopic bone block metal-free fixation for anterior shoulder instability. Short-term functional and radiological outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: Anterior glenohumeral bone loss reconstruction reduces failure rates after soft tissue surgery in patients with large glenoid bone defects. Multiple bone block techniques have been described, most with metal hardware fixation. The objective of this study is to evaluate the safety, as well as the short term functional and radiological results of an arthroscopic bone block metal-free fixation or Bone Block Cerclage (BBC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective study of patients with glenohumeral instability and >15% glenoid bone loss operated during 2019 with follow-up (FU) of at least 12 months. Radiography and computerized tomography (CT) studies where performed. Functional outcomes were evaluated before and after surgery with the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) and Rowe score.

RESULTS: A total of 21 patients with a median age of 30,6 (SD-7,1) were included. All showed radiographic consolidation at 3 months FU. 90,4% of bone grafts presented osteolysis at peripherical areas and 95.2% revealed consolidation in the areas with contact to the glenoid. The median glenoid estimated surface went from 79,3% before surgery to 98,4% at 12 months. Functional scores were statically significant (p<0,001) for WOSI (35,6 to 86,9) and Rowe Score (25,2 to 96,4). No serious complications were reported.

CONCLUSIONS: The Bone Block Cerclage (BBC) is a safe, metal-free technique that achieves total consolidation of the bone graft and favorable functional and radiological outcomes at 12 months FU. Further studies with a larger number of patients and follow-up time are needed.