Injury of the Suprascapular Nerve During Latarjet Procedure: An Anatomic Study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relation between the specific exit point of the screws securing the coracoid graft and the suprascapular nerve during the Latarjet procedure. Ten fresh-frozen shoulder specimens were dissected after having undergone an open Latarjet procedure. The mean distance from the posterior exit site of the superior screw to the suprascapular nerve at the base of the scapular spine was only 4 mm. Two of the superior screws were directly in contact with the major branch of the suprascapular nerve, and 2 screws were also in contact with minor branches of the suprascapular nerve. As for the inferior screw, there was contact with the major branch in 1 case and with minor branches of the suprascapular nerve in 6 cases. In the axial plane, the screws were not in contact with the suprascapular nerve if the angle relative to the glenoid was less than or equal to 10°. The proximity of the suprascapular nerve to the posterior glenoid rim puts this nerve at risk during insertion of the screws used for the Latarjet procedure. Placement of screws within 10° of the face of the glenoid in the axial plane is safe and will avoid the potential for suprascapular nerve injury. This study quantifies the relative risk of injury to the suprascapular nerve during the Latarjet procedure.