Outcomes After Microfracture for Concomitant Glenoid and Humeral Head Osteochondral Defects in Active-Duty Military Patients Younger Than 55 Years With Minimum 5-Year Follow-up

Microfracture of bipolar glenohumeral osteochondral lesions among ADSM yields significant improvements in pain and shoulder function; however, rates of return to unrestricted duty and former level of sport were limited, and 6.5% of patients ultimately underwent total shoulder arthroplasty 6 to 8 years postoperatively. While microfracture begets symptomatic relief for many young, active patients with bipolar osteochondral lesions and appears to offer several years of improved symptom management, return to full occupational and athletic function remains limited and warrants appropriate patient education and counseling.