Editorial Commentary: Glenoid Reconstruction With Autologous Tricortical Iliac Crest Represents an Alternative to Bankart Repair and Remplissage for Anterior Shoulder Instability With Subcritical Bone Loss

Abstract

Traumatic anterior shoulder dislocations are estimated to occur in approximately 2% of the population, frequently with concomitant anterior-inferior labral tears and associated Hill-Sachs lesions of the humeral head. So-called bipolar (or engaging) lesions with attritional bone loss may be exacerbated by recurrent instability, in terms of both prevalence and severity. The glenoid track concept and distance to dislocation have offered context for evaluating bipolar lesions, and increasingly, options for bone block reconstruction are considered for definitive treatment. Recently, concerns have been raised regarding coracoid transfer or Latarjet treatment, particularly with screw constructs in which catastrophic failure, hardware breakage, and secondary arthritis may develop. The Eden-Hybinette procedure, or tricortical iliac crest autograft bone augmentation, may represent a promising alternative to existing options while also restoring native glenoid bone stock. Additionally, suture button fixation may obviate the traditional pitfalls of prior bone block procedures while also achieving reproducible functional outcomes and low rates of recurrence. However, this must be considered alongside other contemporary arthroscopic treatments, such as combined arthroscopic Bankart repair and remplissage.