Exploration of glenohumeral instability under anesthesia: the shoulder jerk test.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to develop a new protocol for the performance of jerk tests under anesthesia, and to study its correlation to intra-articular pathology and the diagnosis of a lax or unstable shoulder.

TYPE OF STUDY: Prospective controlled study.

METHODS

We performed a systematic examination, in the office as well as under anesthesia, of 300 patients (600 shoulders) divided into 3 homogeneous groups: 100 presented with instability resulting from recurrent dislocation of one or both shoulders, 100 presented with alternative shoulder symptomatology without signs of instability, and a further 100 underwent surgery for other locomotor system pathologies.

RESULTS

The following statistical sensitivity values were found: anterior jerk, 90.7%; inferior jerk, 96.2%. Correct interpretation of jerk tests under anesthesia will help us decide the type and scope of required surgical therapy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, Diagnostic Study of Nonconsecutive Patients.