Traumatic Anterior Shoulder Dislocation in Adolescents

BACKGROUND: Recurrent instability is the most common complication after traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation in young patients. HYPOTHESIS: The rate of recurrent instability in a homogeneous population of adolescents after initial traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation is significant and is associated with a guarded prognosis for full recovery. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. METHODS: We identified 32 patients 11 to 18 years of age treated at our institution for a radiographically documented traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation; we performed a functional outcome assessment on 30 patients with use of two standard scoring systems. RESULTS: Overall, instability recurred in 24 of 32 patients, with 23 experiencing at least one recurrent dislocation. Persistent instability led 16 of 32 to undergo a shoulder stabilization procedure. There were no significant differences in the functional outcome of patients who had undergone surgical stabilization and those who were treated nonoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: The recurrence rate of shoulder instability was 75%. Outcome scores were similar for patients treated with a surgical procedure and those treated nonoperatively. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Treatment efforts must be aimed at optimizing shoulder strength and stability. Prognosis for full recovery remains guarded. Available outcome instruments may not discriminate well between patients who do and do not choose surgery.