Arthroscopic Anatomic Glenoid Reconstruction

The shoulder joint allows for more movement than any other joint in the body, but that flexibility also makes it easier to dislocate. Over time, repeated dislocations or injuries can damage the socket of the shoulder, called the glenoid. When too much bone is lost, standard repairs may not be enough to keep the shoulder stable, i.e. keeping the head of the upper arm bone in its socket.

Arthroscopic anatomic glenoid reconstruction is a procedure that rebuilds the damaged part of the socket using a small piece of bone, called a graft. The surgery is done arthroscopically, through tiny incisions with a camera and special tools. By restoring the shape of the socket, the procedure creates a more secure fit for the ball of the shoulder joint, reducing the chance of future dislocations.

People at highest risk for repeated shoulder dislocations and subluxations include

• Young athletes who play contact sports such as football, basketball, Rugby, swimming, baseball, and volley ball that puts repeated stress on the shoulder making it more likely to dislocate the shoulder again after the first injury.
• People with a prior history of dislocation. Once the shoulder has been dislocated, the soft tissues and ligaments that normally hold the joint in place are stretched or torn. This makes the shoulder more prone to slipping out again. The risk is particularly high after the first dislocation occurs at a younger age. that increases the risk of repeated instability.
• Patients with significant bone or soft tissue damage. Damage to the glenoid socket (bone loss) or the humeral head (the ball of the joint) significantly increases the likelihood of repeat instability. This is often seen in patients who have had multiple dislocations or high-energy trauma.
• People with naturally loose ligaments.
• Patients who failed prior shoulder surgery or the joint sustained additional trauma after surgery.
• Older adults with rotator cuff injuries. When the rotator cuff muscles are weakened or torn, the joint lacks an important stabilizing force, increasing the chance of repeated episodes.

Dr. Kaplan carefully reviews each case to decide if this procedure is the best option for long-term success.

Your first step is a consultation with Dr. Kaplan. During this visit he will:

• Review your medical history, discuss your shoulder injuries and your symptoms
• Examine your shoulder to check movement and stability
• Order imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI to see how much bone has been lost
  He will explain what is causing your shoulder to feel unstable, the risks of repeated dislocations, and which treatment options are available to address your specific situation. Patients leave the visit with a clear understanding of whether this surgery is the right choice for them.

Arthroscopic anatomic glenoid reconstruction is performed under general anesthesia, so you are asleep during surgery. The procedure usually takes one to two hours. Through small incisions, Dr. Kaplan uses a camera and tools to view and repair the shoulder.

A bone graft, taken from a donor source or another part of the patient’s body, and is shaped to fit the damaged socket. The graft is then secured with small screws or anchors. This restores the natural contour of the socket and improves stability while protecting movement. Because the surgery is minimally invasive, there is less trauma to surrounding tissue, which often means less pain after surgery and a faster recovery.

Recovery after this procedure is gradual and requires dedication to physical therapy.

• First 6 weeks: the arm is usually kept in a sling to allow healing, and gentle guided exercises may begin
• Weeks 6–12: patients start moving the shoulder more actively and begin light strengthening exercises
• Months 3–6: therapy focuses on rebuilding shoulder strength, stability, and endurance
• 6–9 months: most people can safely return to sports or higher-demand activities once cleared by Dr. Kaplan
  Following the recovery plan is important. Dr. Kaplan works closely with physical therapists to guide patients through each stage of healing.