A Biomechanical Analysis of Shoulder Stabilization: Posterior-Inferior Glenohumeral Capsular Plication

INTRODUCTION The use of posterior capsular plication to decrease capsular volume and reduce capsular laxity for treatment for posterior instability, multidirectional instability, or as an additional technique in the treatment of anterior instability is common. Although it is well known that capsular stitches hold well in the labrum and anterior capsule, the posterior capsule is thinner, less robust biomechanically, and may not provide an optimal fixation construct. While multiple suturing techniques have been described, relatively little is known regarding the biomechanical stability afforded by various approaches. The purpose of the present study was to determine the biomechanical properties of suture plication of the posterior-inferior quadrant of the glenoid, performed using various repair constructs to an intact labrum.