Arthroscopic reconstruction of a complex glenoid rim fracture using suture anchors

Abstract

The gold standard for the treatment of large displaced glenoid rim fractures has been open reduction and internal fixation using cannulated screws. With the advancement in arthroscopic techniques there has been a growing trend towards arthroscopic treatment of glenoid rim fractures. This report outlines the case of 39-year-old health men who sustained a complex multifragmented displaced glenoid rim fracture after a fall on the right shoulder. The injury was diagnosed by standard radiographs and 3D-CT. An arthroscopic reconstruction including closed reduction and internal fixation using suture anchors was performed. After a follow-up of 1 year the Constant Score was 94 points, the Rowe Score 100 points and the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index was 99.9 points. In the Simple Shoulder Test all questions were answered with “yes”. At the latest follow-up the patient was completely painfree and regained a full work activity level. On postoperative 3D-CT imaging the fracture was consolidated in an almost anatomic position with a nearly complete reconstruction of the inferior glenoid circle. In cases of displaced glenoid rim fractures closed reduction and arthroscopic reconstruction using suture anchors can lead to excellent clinical and radiological results.