The “Sublabral Window” in Arthroscopic Posterior Shoulder Instability Surgery: Description of a Technique for Safe Posterior Glenoid Preparation

• Published in: Arthroscopy techniques (Amsterdam) Vol. 5; no. 3; pp. e433 - e439
• Main Authors: Patel, Kushal V., M.D, Bravman, Jonathan T., M.D, McCarty, Eric, M.D
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Netherlands Elsevier Inc 01.06.2016; Elsevier
• Subjects: Orthopedics; Technical Note
• ISSN: 2212-6287; 2212-6287
• DOI: 10.1016/j.eats.2016.01.024

Abstract Arthroscopic posterior labral repairs for posterior shoulder instability can be challenging. Preparation of the capsulolabral tissue and glenoid bony surface is critical. Iatrogenic injury to the articular cartilage and unwarranted truncation of the capsulolabral tissue are concerns during preparation. As a result, several techniques have been described to potentially avoid these complications. We describe an additional technique for improving access and preparing the capsulolabral tissue and glenoid surface through a “sublabral window.” This technique approaches the posterior labrum and glenoid through an already established posterior portal and mitigates iatrogenic injury to the labrum and articular cartilage. The technique is rather simple and easily adaptable.