Post-Latarjet immobilization duration is typically which of the following?

Post-Latarjet immobilization duration is typically which of the following?

• A. Immobilize 4 weeks.
• B. Immobilize 12 weeks.
• C. Immediate ROM is allowed.
• D. No immobilization is used.

Answer: (A)

Protecting the graft and allowing bone healing are the priorities after a Latarjet procedure. Immobilizing in a sling for about four weeks provides the necessary stability for the coracoid graft to consolidate and for the fixation to take hold, reducing the risk of graft displacement or nonunion. After this period, the shoulder can begin a graded ROM progression—starting with gentle, assisted motion to maintain joint mobility without stressing the repair, followed by strengthening as healing advances. Longer immobilization, such as twelve weeks, increases the risk of shoulder stiffness, adhesive capsulitis, and muscle atrophy without offering additional protective benefit once early bone healing has occurred. Immediate ROM or no immobilization would place undue stress on the graft fixation during the critical early healing window, risking graft movement or failure.

Protecting the graft and allowing bone healing are the priorities after a Latarjet procedure. Immobilizing in a sling for about four weeks provides the necessary stability for the coracoid graft to consolidate and for the fixation to take hold, reducing the risk of graft displacement or nonunion. After this period, the shoulder can begin a graded ROM progression—starting with gentle, assisted motion to maintain joint mobility without stressing the repair, followed by strengthening as healing advances.

Longer immobilization, such as twelve weeks, increases the risk of shoulder stiffness, adhesive capsulitis, and muscle atrophy without offering additional protective benefit once early bone healing has occurred. Immediate ROM or no immobilization would place undue stress on the graft fixation during the critical early healing window, risking graft movement or failure.