Neglected Anterior Shoulder Dislocation With Greater Tuberosity Fracture Managed With Open Reduction and Latarjet Procedure: A Case Report

Neglected shoulder dislocation is a relatively rare occurrence characterized by structural changes in bone and soft tissue. Surgical intervention is often necessary, yet no universally accepted treatment approach exists, presenting a challenging clinical scenario. A 45-year-old female presented with an eight-month-old neglected anterior shoulder dislocation, compounded by a Hill-Sachs lesion from a previous fall. Treatment comprised open reduction in conjunction with the Latarjet procedure. Regular follow-up evaluations were conducted over three years post-surgery, revealing satisfactory outcomes including good range of motion, bony union, and absence of dislocation episodes. Managing neglected shoulder dislocations, particularly those with significant bone defects, poses unique challenges involving soft tissue contracture, bone loss, and associated fractures. Despite these complexities, open reduction combined with the Latarjet procedure demonstrated a high success rate in preventing further shoulder dislocation, albeit with a persistent risk of shoulder joint osteoarthritis.