Latarjet Procedure

An Overview of the Latarjet Procedure

The Latarjet procedure is becoming a preferred method of treatment for anterior shoulder instability. This treatment can be performed by Dr. Peter Millett as an open procedure or an arthroscopic technique. Patients receiving this treatment typically have significant bone deficiency from the front of the glenoid region, 20% or more. The most common causes of the deficiency is due to congenital deformity, trauma, or recurrent dislocation. There are three main effects that create stability through this procedure. First, the coracoid transfer restores the glenoid surface eliminating any bony lesions that previously existed. Second, by reinforcing the inferior subscapularis and anterointerior capsule, the conjoined tendon provides dynamic stability when the arm is abducted and externally rotated. Lastly, the capsule is reattached to the bone graft inferiorly, thus increasing stability. This procedure is successful approximately 80-95% of the time in eliminating recurrent shoulder instability and dislocations.

Latarjet Procedure Video

Latarjet Procedure Images

(Click to Enlarge) Latarjet Procedure

(Click to Enlarge) Latarjet Procedure Post-Operative X-ray

Are you a candidate for the Latarjet procedure?

There are two ways to initiate a consultation with Dr. Millett:

You can provide current X-rays and/or MRIs for a clinical case review ($250).

You can schedule an office consultation with Dr. Millett.

Request Case Review or Office Consultation

After the Latarjet Procedure

A nerve block will be used during the Latarjet procedure. This allows for complete numbness in both the shoulder and arm during and immediately after the procedure. Typically, you will have numbness lasting for up to a few hours. Once the nerve block wears off, you will begin to feel soreness and pain. The patient is required to wear a sling for about 4 weeks, so the repaired area can heal to the glenoid. Sutures will assist in the healing process. The following guidelines are recommended:

Do not remove your sutures – they will disintegrate by themselves. Follow the incision site care instructions that are given to you after your surgery.
Apply ice to the incision site to help alleviate pain and swelling; protect your skin with a light cloth to avoid any burning of the skin.
Wear your sling or brace until Dr. Millett specifies that you can remove it. You may take off the sling to dress or bathe, but be careful not to move your arm.
Keep your arm immobile, and stabilized with your sling when sleeping.
For pain management, Dr. Millett can prescribe pain medication Please take the prescribed amount and follow the precautions listed for the drugs. You may also take over-the-counter medication to alleviate pain.
If excessive pain, welling, nausea, fever, numbness or trouble breathing takes place please call our office immediately.
You will not be able to drive or operate heavy machinery for a minimum of 8 weeks. Dr. Millett will specify when you are able to drive again.
Physical therapy, as prescribed by Dr. Millett, will begin approximately 8 weeks after surgery, or unitl full strength is regained.
Overhead sports may resume about 3 months following surgery.
Patient can resume contact sports after 6 months.

Rehabilitation Following Latarjet Shoulder Surgery

Dr. Millett has specific guidelines for patients who have undergone a Latarjet procedure. These guidelines are broken down into various shoulder rehabilitation phases. Depending on the extent of your injury and surgery, the rehab guidelines may vary. These are simply protocols for all patients who have had Latarjet surgery. Dr. Millett will provide these guidelines during pre-operative procedures.

This is a patient performing mobility exercises 10 weeks after Latarjet shoulder surgery

For additional resources on recurrent shoulder instability and shoulder dislocations, or to discuss the Latarjet procedure in more detail, please contact the office of Dr. Peter Millett.

Peter Millett, MD

Average rating:

39 reviews

Alexandra Thompson

Mar 23, 2024

by Alexandra Thompson on Peter Millett, MD

110%

Dr. Millett and his team did a SLAP tear repair and bicep tenodesis on my left shoulder. I use my arms as an artist, and love to swim in the ocean, surf, paddle, and telemark ski. So regaining full use of my shoulder and keeping my bicep attached was very important to me. Now, over two years later, my shoulder has the equivalent range of motion as my other arm and as before the injury, and no pain. After the first three months it felt so good and was so strong that - to my horror - I completely forgot my six-month follow-up.

Not only did Dr. Millett and his team make my arm as good as new, but having had the experience of such kindness and expertise throughout the process of surgery and recovery is like an added shoulder superpower.

Thank you Rita, Brooke, Jason, Sarah, Camille, Olivia, Dr. Millett and everyone! And see you soon when my husband comes in for his knee...

Jeff Chandler

Jan 31, 2022

by Jeff Chandler on Peter Millett, MD

Flawless procedure, Easy recovery

Dr. Millet's repaired my knee and tibia, following a botched operation by a different surgeon. That procedure was virtually pain free and I was weight bearing within a few days. That was 18 years ago and the knee is still strong. A few years after the knee incident, Dr Millet repaired my shoulder. My insurance company approved me for 3 months of disability following that surgery. I was off pain medication in 2 days and had 90% range of motion within a week. I withdrew my disability claim and returned to work within two weeks of surgery. I’m not a famous athlete—just a regular guy. Nonetheless, I was treated like an NFL at the Steadman clinic. Most notable was the time for recovery. Other surgeons perform their hour-long task in the OR and don’t involve themselves in the other functions. Peter and his team manages the entire process from diagnosis, anesthesia, nursing care, and therapy. He takes a holistic approach to patient care and doesn’t skip any steps.

Jenn West

Jul 2, 2021

by Jenn West on Peter Millett, MD

Saved My Life

I went to Dr. Millett after 7 knee surgeries (6 on my right and 1 on my left) and had seen 11 different surgeons who all refused to remove femur metal from my right leg. I am highly allergic to metal and the chronic pain was leaving me bedridden for 3.5wks out of a month. He personally wrote me back on my inquiry, listened to my concerns, scheduled my surgery within a week (due to insurance issues) and personally followed up with my recovery. The level of patient care from Dr. Millett and his ENTIRE team is above any care I have ever received in my 20 years of dealing with orthopedic surgeons. There are not enough words to describe the level of care, dedication and professionalism you receive from Dr. Millett and his staff.
My only disappointment is that I did not find him sooner!!!