The modified Bristow-Helfet procedure for recurrent anterior shoulder subluxations and dislocations

A review of 107 cases in which the Bristow-Helfet procedure was done for recurrent anterior shoulder subluxation and dislocation is presented. The redislocation rate was 2% with very few complications. Eighty-nine percent of the patients were satisfied with the procedure. Mean loss of external rotation was 12.6 degrees. Six of the 41 patients with dominant shoulder surgery were capable of throwing in the same manner as they did prior to injury. Five of 24 patients (21%) with a diagnosis of recurrent anterior subluxation continued to have symptoms of instability following surgery. Associated symptoms of posterior or voluntary subluxation may preclude a satisfactory result.