Introduction: The present study evaluates the clinical and radiological outcome following open reconstruction of avulsion fractures of the anterior glenoid rim in traumatic shoulder dislocation.
Material and methods: A total of 20 patients (mean age 49.4 years) were treated with open reduction and cannulated screw fixation. Eighteen patients were available for clinical and radiological follow-up after 3.1 (2.0-6.5) years.
Results: The average Constant Score was 78 and the average Rowe Score was 90 points. Documented complications were implant failure in one and neurological dysfunction in one patient. Radiographs revealed the bony fragment located in an unimproved displaced position in one patient and a progress in osteoarthritic changes in three patients. No recurrent subluxation or dislocation was observed.
Conclusion: Open reconstruction of glenoid rim fractures is a valuable procedure regarding medium-term subjective and objective outcome measures. Recurrent dislocation, glenoid defects and early onset of osteoarthritic degeneration can be avoided.