Cadaveric coracoid dimensions in Indian populations for its implications in shoulder instability

Abstract

Objective: Anterior shoulder instability with glenoid bone loss is a common clinical entity, particularly among young athletic patient population. Nonoperative management and arthroscopic treatment of glenohumeral instability have been associated with high rates of recurrence. Significant bone loss is commonly managed with the bony augmentation mainly Latarjet procedure. However, the bony anatomy of the coracoid in coracoid transfer has not yet been defined in Indian populations. The aims of this study were to describe the coracoid anatomy and average bone dimension of coracoid available for transfer in Indian populations.Methods: We dissected 20 fresh frozen shoulders, exposing the coracoid process and then measured the bony dimensions of the coracoid.Results: The mean coracoid length was 26.03mm (SD, 1.98mm), mean coracoid width was 16.16mm (SD, 1.53mm), mean coracoid height was 9.66mm (SD, 0.82mm). The mean subscapularis vertical dimension at the level of coracoid graft insertion (sling mechanism) was 35.35mm (SD, 4.51mm), mean vertical dimension at subscapularis footprint was 24.82 (SD, 3.28mm) and mean anteroposterior dimension at footprint was 15.98mm (SD, 1.31mm). The mean Coracoacromial ligament length was 2.46mm (SD, 0.24mm)Conclusion: The coracoid dimensionally available for transfer in Indian population are slight less than American populations. Thus facing difficulty in inserting two screws for Latarjet procedure by standard Gillie Walch technique.