PATIENT INFORMATION
The Latarjet Operation
for Shoulder Reconstruction
The Latarjet operation was first described by a French surgeon Dr Michel Latarjet and has been used very
successfully to reconstruct shoulders with recurrent anterior instability. The modern version of the original
technique prevents further episodes of dislocation in 98-99% of patients and has a very low complication
rate [1]. The operation is ideally suited for contact athletes, patients with increased shoulder laxity, failed
previous shoulder reconstructions or if there is significant bone damage.
Things You Should Know
• You will require a general anaesthetic +/- regional • You will be shown by your treating physician
block. or therapist how to perform self-assisted
• The operation normally takes 45 minutes. stretching exercises.
• You will need to wear a simple sling for 15
• The incision is approximately 4 - 5cm long.
days.
• You will be in hospital for one night, but may go
• At day 15, usual activities of daily living are
home the day of surgery after a check xray has
allowed and therapy is continued.
been reviewed by Dr Young.
• At 1 month, you may progressively resume
• The dressings are waterproof, so you can shower
athletic conditioning (eg. jogging, cycling)
(out of the sling) resting your operated arm on
but NO strengthening exercises for the
your abdomen.
upper limbs. Swimming (gentle breaststroke
• Rehabilitation will start the day after surgery, so only !!) is allowed with smooth and painless
make an appointment with your physician or movements. You are not allowed to make any
therapist in advance. forceful arm motions.
• Apply an icepack to your operated shoulder for • At 3 months, progressive return to full sporting
20 minutes every 2 hours while awake, up to activities, including contact sports, is allowed
three days after surgery. providing clinical examination and Xrays are
OK.
Appointments:
Therapist - day 1; Dr Young - day 10-15, 6 weeks & 3 months with final control xrays.
NOTIFY DR YOUNG OR YOUR THERAPIST IF THERE IS ANY UNUSUAL OR INCREASING SWELLING,
REDNESS OR PAIN
References:
1. Walch G, Boileau P. Latarjet-Bristow procedure for recurrent instability. Techniques in Shoulder and Elbow
Surgery, 2000: 1(4):256-61
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PATIENT INFORMATION
The Latarjet Operation
Rehabilitation – The JPL Stretching Protocol
• Exercises should be performed semi-reclined in bed or sitting on a chair with your body relaxed
and slouched backward.
• Remember - don’t push too hard with the exercises in the early stages after your operation.
The stretch should be comfortable to perform and so only do what comes easily.
• In the first few days to one week after the operation, you will likely only be able to raise your
hands to your forehead. This is OK. From this position, reach upwards with your hands as far as
you can comfortably and then return your hands to your lap.
Stretching is performed in the following 5 steps:
The starting position is with both hands together (fingers interlocked) and resting on your lap.
1. Raise your hands upwards together to rest on the top of your head.
2. Slide your hands behind your head only as far as you can comfortably
3. Push your elbows backwards only as far as you can comfortably
4. ‘Reach for the sky’: Now reach upwards with both hands together above your head in line with
your body, think about trying to straighten the elbows. Go only as far as you can comfortably
and hold for 5 seconds.
5. Return hands smoothly to your lap by bending your elbows. Breathe out slowly as you lower
your hands.
• Each stretch only takes 10-20 seconds.
• Repeat it 5 times, 5 times per day.
• Apply ice after each session.
• With time, you will be able to perform the complete stretch, so take it slowly and be patient !!!
If you push too hard, the shoulder may react and become more stiff and painful.
Last Updated: 03/12/2010
