Glenohumeral Joint Dissection: A New Protocol

Objectives: The glenohumeral joint, as a component of the shoulder girdle, is one of the most frequently injured joints of the upper extremity. Typical dissection of the glenohumeral joint does not allow an intracapsular view without sacrificing the joint capsule and surrounding structures. Methods: A dissection method is presented which reveals the internal capsule of the glenohumeral joint, the glenoid labrum, the proximal insertion of the long head of the biceps tendon, and glenohumeral joint surfaces while preserving the posterior aspect of the capsule and surrounding supportive muscles and tendons of the joint. Results: The novel dissection technique allowed for preservation of glenohumeral joint structures and consideration or reexamination of the relationships and structures. Conclusion: The authors present an alternative protocol for dissection of the glenohumeral joint that minimizes destruction of the surrounding structures while allowing visualization of the internal capsule and maintains the relationships of the surrounding supporting structures of the pectoral girdle that may be used for study at a later time. Conclusion: The authors present an alternative protocol for dissection of the glenohumeral joint that minimizes destruction of the surrounding structures while allowing visualization of the internal capsule and maintains the relationships of the surrounding supporting structures of the pectoral girdle that may be used for study at a later time