The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery

The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery

Clinical, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Characteristics of Posterior Glenohumeral Instability

Document Type : CURRENT CONCEPTS REVIEW

Authors
Akshay Khanna
Mohamad Y. Fares
Jonathan Koa
Peter Boufadel
Ryan Lopez
Joseph A. Abboud
Division of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
10.22038/abjs.2024.81046.3697
Abstract
Posterior shoulder instability (PSI) is a shoulder pathology that is challenging to diagnose, leading to 
treatment delay and exacerbation of symptoms. Etiology can be both traumatic and atraumatic, and a 
comprehensive clinical history plays a significant role in achieving diagnosis. Imaging in the setting of 
PSI can reveal a reverse-Bankart lesion, a reverse Hill-Sachs lesion, posterior labral cysts, and 
potentially glenoid or lesser tuberosity fractures. Both conservative and surgical options exist for 
patients with PSI, and management often depends on case severity, extent of bone loss, and patient 
goals and expectations. Holistic patient education regarding the etiologies, mechanisms and possible 
treatment options available is pivotal for achieving high levels of patient satisfaction and optimal 
outcomes.
 Level of evidence: IV
Keywords
Dislocation
Posterior instability
Reverse bankart
Reverse hill-sachs
Shoulder
Subjects
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The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery
Volume 12, Issue 12
December 2024
Pages 820-825

  • Receive Date 10 July 2024
  • Revise Date 02 September 2024
  • Accept Date 23 September 2024