Poly-L-lactic Acid Tack Synovitis after Arthroscopic Stabilization of the Shoulder

Background: Progress has been made in the design of bioabsorbable implants, with reduced complication rates and slower degradation times.

Purpose: To report on complications related to use of poly-L-lactic acid implants after arthroscopic shoulder stabilization procedures.

Study Design: Retrospective cohort study.

Methods: Between 1997 and 1999, 52 patients underwent arthroscopic stabilization at one institution with an average of 2.2 poly-L-lactic acid tacks. Ten patients (19%), with an average age of 30 years, developed delayed onset of symptoms at an average of 8 months after surgery, including pain in all 10 and progressive stiffness in 6. The patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging and arthroscopic evaluation and debridement.

Results: Nine patients had gross implant debris. Evidence of glenohumeral synovitis was seen arthroscopically in all 10 patients. Three patients had significant full-thickness chondral damage on the humeral head. All preexisting labral lesions were healed. One year after arthroscopic debridement, loose body removal, and synovectomy, seven patients reported no or minimal pain and full return of motion. Two patients continued to have persistent pain and stiffness, and one patient reported discomfort with overhand throwing; all three had chondral lesions.

Conclusions: Patients with symptoms of delayed pain and progressive stiffness after arthroscopic stabilization with poly-L-lactic acid implants should be evaluated for synovitis and chondral injury. Arthroscopic treatment provides a significant decrease in symptoms and increased range of motion.