Recurrent anterior shoulder instability is commonly associated with defects of the anterior glenoid rim. Substantial osseous defects significantly diminish the glenohumeral stability and require a bony augmentation, either by a coracoid transfer or free bone grafting procedure. Both reconstructive techniques have been applied for a long time and evaluated biomechanically and clinically. Although neither treatment option has been recognized as clearly superior, both comprise certain advantages and disadvantages. The Latarjet technique enables a biomechanically superior stabilization through the additional sling effect at time zero, but constitutes an extra-anatomical procedure with a broad spectrum and relatively high incidence of complications. Free bone grafting techniques enable an anatomical reconstruction of the glenoid concavity, offer the advantage of an unlimited graft size and show generally less severe and more easily manageable complications. The indications need to be carefully considered depending on the specific defect type, the glenoid track concept in cases of bipolar lesions as well as the individual patient characteristics. For both reconstructive procedures, open and arthroscopic approaches have been described with very good results, allowing a selection based on individual surgical skills and experience levels.
Keywords: Coracoid process; Glenohumeral dislocation; Glenoid cavity; Scapula; Shoulder joint.