Trends in anterior shoulder instability procedures over the last decade in the United States

Abstract

Background

The treatment algorithm for traumatic shoulder instability has evolved, emphasizing the significance of glenoid bone loss and the glenoid track, addressing humeral, and glenoid vault bone deficiencies. This study examines trends and demographics of anterior shoulder instability procedures in the United States from 2010 to 2020.

Methods

PearlDiver database was queried for patients who underwent traumatic anterior shoulder instability procedures. Student t and multiple regression analysis tests were used for statistical comparisons and trends analysis (P < 0.05 significant).

Results

Arthroscopic anterior labral repair showed an annual decline of approximately 10% compared to the substantial growth of Latarjet coracoid transfer procedures in the first half of the decade (2010–2015), followed by a plateau in the second half (2016–2020). Arthroscopic anterior labral repair was most prevalent in the 15 to 19 age range, while Latarjet was most prevalent in the 20 to 24 age group. Latarjet procedures were three times more common in males than females, whereas arthroscopic anterior labral repairs occurred approximately twice as frequently in males compared to females.

Discussion

Latarjet procedures showed a general increase in annual growth rate, while arthroscopic anterior labral repairs have consistently declined. Open anterior capsulorrhaphy with bone block, open capsular shift, and open capsulolabral repairs have shown a steady decrease in incidence.