Arthroscopic Removal of Extra-Articular Foreign Bodies from the Shoulder: Inside-Out Technique

Arthroscopic shoulder surgery can be performed for retrieval of bullets and retained metallic fragments in the glenohumeral and subacromial spaces. Previous case reports and case series have demonstrated the effectiveness of an arthroscopic approach over an open procedure, as it is less invasive, allows for improved inspection and documentation of the joint surfaces and periarticular structures, and potentially leads to a faster recovery. An arthroscopic approach for extracting foreign bodies from both the quadrilateral space and the posterior extra-articular space by first accessing the glenohumeral space has yet to be described. This inside-out technique may afford surgeons the potential for improved visualization and less morbidity compared with a traditional open posterior approach. We report a technique for an arthroscopic inside-out approach for removal of extra-articular foreign bodies retained in either the quadrilateral space or the posterior extra-articular space.