Shoulder arthroplasty with or without resurfacing of the glenoid in patients who have osteoarthritis

Management of glenohumeral arthritis in the young adult

The majority of cases of glenohumeral arthritis in older adults are primary osteoarthritis and treatment algorithms are well defined, with shoulder arthroplasty providing reliable pain relief and functional improvement of satisfactorily duration. In younger adults, however, diagnoses are more complex and arthroplasty outcomes are less durable. Arthroscopy may be useful both as a diagnostic tool for characterizing lesions and as a therapeutic tool for debridement. Arthroscopic debridement is most likely to benefit patients with mild glenohumeral arthritis, small lesions, and involvement of only one side of the glenohumeral joint. Reconstruction of the humeral joint surface may consist of cartilage repair or reconstruction, resurfacing arthroplasty, or arthroplasty with a stemmed component. Patients treated with hemiarthroplasty avoid glenoid implant loosening, but the procedure provides less predictable pain relief than does total shoulder arthroplasty and may lead to increased postoperative glenoid erosion.

SURFACE ARTHROPLASTY FOR TREATING PRIMARY AND/OR SECONDARY SHOULDER OSTEOARTHROSIS BY MEANS OF THE HEMICAP-ARTHROSURFACE(®) SYSTEM

Objective: To present the surgical technique for the He-miCAP-Arthrosurface^® system and evaluate our results from this technique for treating primary and/or secondary shoulder osteoarthrosis. Method: Between June 2007 and June 2009, 10 shoulders of 10 patients (nine with primary osteoarthrosis and one with avascular necrosis of the humeral head) underwent surface arthroplasty using the HemiCAP-Arthrosurface^® system to correct the problem. The follow-up time ranged from six to 29 months (mean of 17 months). The patients’ ages ranged from 62 to 73 years (mean of 67.5 years). Six patients were female and four patients were male. The patients were followed up weekly for the first month after the surgical procedure and every three months thereafter. The clinic evaluation was done using the criteria of the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) and a visual analogue pain scale. Results: All the patients said that they were satisfied with the results from the surgical treatment, with a mean UCLA score of 30 points and a mean analogue pain score of two points. Conclusion: The HemiCAP-Arthrosurface^® system for shoulder surgery for a specific group of patients is a technique that preserves the bone stock with good functional and antalgic results.

Total shoulder arthroplasty

Shoulder arthroplasty has been the subject of marked advances over the last few years. Modern implants provide a wide range of options, including resurfacing of the humeral head, anatomic hemiarthroplasty, total shoulder arthroplasty, reverse shoulder arthroplasty and trauma-specific implants for fractures and nonunions. Most humeral components achieve successful long-term fixation without bone cement. Cemented all-polyethylene glenoid components remain the standard for anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty. The results of shoulder arthroplasty vary depending on the underlying diagnosis, the condition of the soft-tissues, and the type of reconstruction. Total shoulder arthroplasty seems to provide the best outcome for patients with osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthropathy. The outcome of hemiarthroplasty for proximal humerus fractures is somewhat unpredictable, though it seems to have improved with the use of fracture-specific designs, more attention to tuberosity repair, and the selective use of reverse arthroplasty, as well as a shift in indications towards internal fixation. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty has become extremely popular for patients with cuff-tear arthropathy, and its indications have been expanded to the field of revision surgery. Overall, shoulder arthroplasty is a very successful procedure with predictable pain relief and substantial improvements in motion and function.

Patient reported activities after shoulder replacement: total and hemiarthroplasty

HYPOTHESIS/BACKGROUND

The indication to perform a shoulder arthroplasty is guided in part by a patient's intended level of activity after surgery. What level of activity should be safely recommended, and, presently, patient reported activity level is unknown. The purpose of this study was to define and compare the self-reported activities of patients following shoulder arthroplasty either total (TSA) or hemiarthroplasty (HA).

METHODS

Two groups of 75 patients each following TSA or HA were matched by age, sex, operative side, timing from surgery, and state of residence. A mailed questionnaire asked patients to report on their level of pain, motion, strength, and choice of 72 different activities. Reported activities were classified as low demand, intermediate demand, or high demand.

RESULTS

Ninety-nine patients completed the survey, 52 in the TSA group (average age 62 years; 30F:22M), and 47 in the HA group (average age 62 years; 27F:20M). No difference on a pain scale was reported between groups. Better results were reported in the TSA group in forward flexion (P = .006), internal rotation (P = .04), and strength (P = .04). The most commonly reported activities in each category were: low demand (eg, cooking), medium demand (eg, gardening), and high demand (eg, snow shoveling). For each activity there was no significant difference between groups.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION

Conventional thinking that HA provides for more activity is not supported by patient-reported activities when compared with TSA. Patients following TSA reported better motion and strength and were equally as active as the HA group.

Surgery for Shoulder Osteoarthritis: A Cochrane Systematic Review

Objective.

To determine the benefits and harm of surgery for shoulder osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods.

We performed a Cochrane Systematic Review of clinical trials of adults with shoulder OA, comparing surgical techniques [total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), hemiarthroplasty, implant types, and fixation] to placebo, sham surgery, nonsurgical modalities, and no treatment. We also reviewed trials that compared various surgical techniques, reporting patient-reported outcomes (pain, function, quality of life, etc.) or revision rates. We calculated the risk ratio for categorical outcomes and mean differences for continuous outcomes with 95% CI.

Results.

There were no controlled trials of surgery versus placebo or nonsurgical interventions. Seven studies with 238 patients were included. Two studies compared TSA to hemiarthroplasty (n = 88). Significantly worse scores on the 0–100 American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scale (mean difference, −10.05 at 24–34 mo; 95% CI −18.97 to −1.13; p = 0.03) and a nonsignificant trend toward higher revision rate in hemiarthroplasty compared to TSA (relative risk 6.18; 95% CI 0.77 to 49.52; p = 0.09) were noted. With 1 study providing data (n = 41), no differences were noted between groups for pain scores (mean difference 7.8; 95% CI −5.33 to 20.93), quality of life on Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form 36 physical component summary (mean difference 0.80; 95% CI −6.63 to −8.23), and adverse events (relative risk 1.2; 95% CI 0.4 to 3.8).

Conclusion.

TSA was associated with better shoulder function, with no other demonstrable clinical benefits compared to hemiarthroplasty. More studies are needed to compare clinical outcomes between them and comparing shoulder surgery to sham, placebo, and other nonsurgical treatment options.

Shoulder arthroplasty in patients aged fifty-five years or younger with osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND

The younger patient with glenohumeral arthritis presents a challenge because of concerns about activity and frequency of failure. The purpose of this study was to define the results, complications, and frequency of revision surgery in this group.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between 1986 and 2005, 46 total shoulder arthroplasties and 20 hemiarthroplasties were performed in 63 patients who were aged 55 years or younger and had chronic shoulder pain due to glenohumeral osteoarthritis. All 63 patients had complete preoperative evaluation, operative records, and minimum 2-year follow-up (mean, 7.0 years) or follow-up until revision.

RESULTS

Nine shoulders underwent a revision operation. The implant survival rate was 92% (95% confidence interval, 77%-100%) at 10 years for total shoulder arthroplasty and 72% (95% confidence interval, 54%-97%) for hemiarthroplasty (Kaplan-Meier result). Patients who underwent total shoulder arthroplasty had less pain (P = .01), greater active elevation (P = .05), and higher satisfaction (P = .05) at final follow-up compared with those who underwent hemiarthroplasty. Complete radiographs were available for 47 arthroplasties with a minimum 2-year follow-up or follow-up until revision (mean, 6.6 years). More than minor glenoid periprosthetic lucency or a shift in component position was present in 10 of 34 total shoulder arthroplasties. Moderate to severe glenoid erosion was present in 6 of 13 hemiarthroplasties.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates that there is intermediate- to long-term pain relief and improvement in motion with shoulder arthroplasty in young patients with osteoarthritis. These results favor total shoulder arthroplasty in terms of pain relief, motion, and implant survival.

Treatment of glenohumeral arthrosis

The successful diagnosis and treatment of glenohumeral arthrosis in the young and active patient can be challenging to even the most experienced of clinicians. A thorough preoperative evaluation, including a detailed understanding of patient expectations, facilitates the selection of a treatment strategy. Arthroscopy is the gold standard for detecting chondral injuries, and it is increasingly used as an effective first line of management. In patients who fail arthroscopic debridement and reparative techniques, further treatment should proceed with an algorithmic decision-making approach encompassing patient-based and disease-based factors. Restorative and reconstructive techniques may provide improvements in pain and functional outcome while delaying the need for total shoulder arthroplasty, although the longevity of these treatments has yet to be established in the literature. Hemiarthroplasty and total shoulder arthroplasty have historically proven to be the most durable and reliable options in properly selected patients. However, concerns about progressive glenoid erosion and glenoid component loosening have led many to pursue alternative nonarthroplasty techniques for the management of arthrosis in active young individuals.

Surgery for shoulder osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND

Surgical treatment including shoulder arthroplasty is a treatment option for patients with advanced osteoarthritis of the shoulder who have failed conservative treatment.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the benefit and harm of surgery in patients with osteoarthritis of the shoulder confirmed on X-ray who do not respond to analgesics and NSAIDs.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched: The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), via The Cochrane Library; OVID MEDLINE; CINAHL (via EBSCOHost); OVID SPORTdiscus; EMBASE; and Science Citation Index (Web of Science).

SELECTION CRITERIA

All randomized clinical trials (RCTs) or quasi-randomized trials including adults with osteoarthritis of the shoulder joint (PICO- patients) comparing surgical techniques (total shoulder arthroplasty, hemiarthroplasty, implant types and fixation- intervention) versus placebo or sham surgery, non-surgical modalities, no treatment, or comparison of one type of surgical technique to another (comparison) with patient-reported outcomes (pain, function, quality of life etc.) or revision rates (outcomes).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We reviewed titles and abstracts for inclusion, extracted study and outcomes data and assessed the risk of bias of included studies. For categorical outcomes, we calculated the risk ratio (with 95% confidence interval (CI)) and for continuous outcomes, the mean difference (95% CI).

MAIN RESULTS

Seven studies (238 patients) were included for analyses. None of the studies compared shoulder surgery to sham surgery, non-surgical modalities or placebo. Two studies compared hemiarthroplasty to total shoulder arthroplasty; three compared keeled and pegged humeral components; and one each compared navigation surgery to conventional and all-polyethylene to metal-backed implant. Two studies (88 patients) compared hemiarthroplasty to total shoulder arthroplasty. Patients who underwent hemiarthroplasty had statistically significantly worse functional scores on American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Shoulder Scale (100 point scale; higher = better) at 24 to 34 month follow-up compared to those who underwent total shoulder arthroplasty (mean difference, -10.05; 95% CI, -18.97 to -1.13; 2 studies, 88 patients), but no statistically significant differences between hemiarthroplasty and TSA were noted for pain scores (mean difference, 7.8; 95% CI, -5.33 to 20.93; 1 study, 41 patients), quality of life on short-form 36 physical component summary (mean difference, 0.80; 95% CI, -6.63 to 8.23; 1 study, 41 patients) and adverse events (Risk ratio, 1.19; 95% CI, 0.37 to 3.81; 1 study, 41 patients), respectively. A non-statistically significant trend towards higher revision rate in hemiarthroplasty compared to total shoulder arthroplasty was noted (Risk ratio, 6.18; 95% CI, 0.77 to 49.52; 2 studies, 88 patients; P = 0.09).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Total shoulder arthroplasty seems to offer an advantage in terms of shoulder function, with no other clinical benefits over hemiarthroplasty. More studies are needed to compare clinical outcomes of surgery using different components and techniques in patients with osteoarthritis of the shoulder. There is a need for studies comparing shoulder surgery to sham, placebo and other non-surgical treatment options.

Clinical, radiographic, and ultrasonographic comparison of subscapularis tenotomy and lesser tuberosity osteotomy for total shoulder arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Recently, a lesser tuberosity osteotomy has been promoted as an alternative to tenotomy for release of the subscapularis during shoulder arthroplasty. To our knowledge, no direct comparison of the clinical results of the two techniques has been presented.

METHODS

Thirty-five shoulders in thirty-four consecutive patients with osteoarthritis who had a primary total shoulder arthroplasty, performed with use of a standard subscapularis tenotomy (Group 1) or lesser tuberosity osteotomy (Group 2) to release the subscapularis, were evaluated retrospectively at an average of thirty-three months. Group 1 consisted of fifteen shoulders in fourteen patients (seven in males and eight in females, with an average age of sixty-seven years). Group 2 consisted of twenty shoulders in twenty patients (fourteen males and six females, with an average age of sixty-nine years). Assessment included a physical examination, clinical outcome questionnaires, conventional radiography, ultrasound examination of the subscapularis, and measurement of internal rotation strength.

RESULTS

The postoperative total Penn Shoulder Scores improved significantly from the preoperative levels in both groups (mean and standard deviation, 29 +/- 15 points to 81 +/- 20 points [p < 0.00001] in Group 1 and 29 +/- 16 points to 92 +/- 11 points [p < 0.00001] in Group 2). However, the postoperative mean total Penn Shoulder Score was higher in Group 2 (92 +/- 11 points) than in Group 1 (81 +/- 20 points) (p = 0.04). At one year, an abnormal subscapularis on ultrasound was associated with a lower mean Penn Shoulder Score in Group 1 (73 +/- 19 points compared with 92 +/- 3 points; p = 0.01). However, at a minimum two-year follow-up, this difference was not significant (mean, 74 +/- 24 points and 86 +/- 15 points, respectively; p = 0.25). There were more abnormal subscapularis tendons in Group 1 (six attenuated tendons and one full-thickness tear) than in Group 2 (two attenuated tendons). Internal rotation strength did not differ between the groups when controlled for sex (mean, 117 +/- 8 N and 127 +/- 21 N for males in Group 1 and Group 2, respectively [p = 0.22] and 77 +/- 27 N and 101 +/- 26 N, respectively, for females [p = 0.1]).

CONCLUSIONS

Both techniques resulted in improved clinical outcome scores. The lesser tuberosity osteotomy resulted in higher clinical outcome scores, a lower rate of subscapularis tendon tears, and universal healing of the osteotomy. This technique offers a means by which the rate of postoperative subscapularis tears may be reduced in patients undergoing total shoulder arthroplasty.

Total shoulder replacement for osteoarthritis in patients 80 years of age and older

This study was performed to review the safety and outcome of total shoulder replacements in patients who are ≥ 80 years of age. A total of 50 total shoulder replacements in 44 patients at a mean age of 82 years (80 to 89) were studied. Their health and shoulder status, the operation and post-operative course were analysed, including pain, movement, patient satisfaction, medical and surgical complications, radiographs, the need for revision surgery, and implant and patient survival. A total of 27 patients had an ASA classification of III or IV and medical abnormalities were common. Of the 13 shoulders with bony deficiency of the glenoid, nine required grafting. The duration of hospital stay was prolonged and blood transfusions were common. There were no peri-operative deaths. The mean follow-up was for 5.5 years (2 to 12). Pain was significantly reduced (p < 0.001) and movement improved in active elevation and both external and internal rotation (p < 0.001). Using the Neer scale for assessing outcome, 40 (80%) shoulders had an excellent or satisfactory result. There were medical or surgical complications in 17 cases. Four shoulders developed radiological evidence of loosened glenoid components, and three of these had a poor outcome. Three other shoulders required revision, two for instability. By the time of this review 39 of the patients had died from unrelated causes at a mean of 7.5 years (0.8 to 16.4) after surgery.

Total shoulder replacement is a relatively effective treatment in this elderly group of patients. However, there is a requirement for more intense patient care in the peri-operative period, and non-fatal medical or surgical complications are common. Most of these elderly patients will have a comfortable functional shoulder for the rest of their lives.

Treatment of glenohumeral osteoarthritis

This clinical practice guideline is based on a systematic review of published studies on the treatment of glenohumeral osteoarthritis in the adult patient population. Of the 16 recommendations addressed, nine are inconclusive. Two were reached by consensus-that physicians use perioperative mechanical and/or chemical venous thromboembolism prophylaxis for shoulder arthroplasty patients and that total shoulder arthroplasty not be performed in patients with glenohumeral osteoarthritis who have an irreparable rotator cuff tear. Four options were graded as weak: the use of injectable viscosupplementation; total shoulder arthroplasty and hemiarthroplasty as treatment; avoiding shoulder arthroplasty by surgeons who perform fewer than two shoulder arthroplasties per year (to reduce the risk of immediate postoperative complications); and the use of keeled or pegged all-polyethylene cemented glenoid components. The single moderate-rated recommendation was for the use of total shoulder arthroplasty rather than hemiarthroplasty. Management of glenohumeral osteoarthritis remains controversial; the scientific evidence on this topic can be significantly improved.

Total shoulder arthroplasty with an uncemented soft-metal-backed glenoid component

BACKGROUND

Loosening associated with cemented polyethylene glenoid components is a major concern following total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical and radiographic results associated with use of a novel uncemented soft-metal-backed glenoid component (SMBG), with a minimum follow-up of 2 years.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-two patients (19 women) underwent TSA using a uncemented SMBG. The mean age was 68.5 years (range, 49-84). Mean follow-up was 50 months (range, 24-89). Indications for TSA were primary osteoarthritis (10), post-traumatic osteoarthritis (8), steroid-induced avascular necrosis (2), crystalline arthropathy (1), and arthritis secondary to systemic lupus erythematodes (1). Subjective and objective parameters were assessed. Loosening and polyethylene wear were evaluated.

RESULTS

Mean absolute Constant scores improved from 29.1 to 65.9 points (P < .001), age- and sex-adjusted Constant scores improved from 40.1 to 87.7% (P < .001), and subjective shoulder values improved from 35% to 75.2% (P < .001). Mean pain scores improved from 4.2 points to 13.1 (P < .001). Three cases had a fractured glenoid component. Only these 3 had a definite loosening. Polyethylene wear was found in 2 cases.

CONCLUSION

Use of an uncemented SMBG component yields controversial results. Osteointegration appears possible and loosening signs have virtually not been observed. Conversely, the current implant can be associated with a high failure rate (13.6%) because of implant fractures despite short follow-up. As loosening seems absent or minimal but implant stability insufficient, design changes need to be performed and tested in view of solving the implant failure problem while preserving the actually excellent bone-implant interface characteristics.

Is a formal physical therapy program necessary after total shoulder arthroplasty for osteoarthritis?

HYPOTHESIS

A retrospective analysis was conducted of 2 consecutive groups of patients undergoing total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) for primary osteoarthritis. One group was treated with formal physical therapy (PT), and one group was treated with home-based, physician-guided PT. We hypothesized that patients with a formal postoperative PT protocol would have significantly better postoperative clinical outcomes than patients with no formal PT.

METHODS

Group A (43 patients) had a standard PT program. Group B (38 patients) had a home-based, physician-guided PT program. Clinical outcomes (preoperatively, 3, 6, and 12 months and most recent follow-up) were analyzed. A minimum sample size of 31 patients gives power to detect a 10-point American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score (alpha=0.05, beta=0.80).

RESULTS

ASES and Simple Shoulder Test (SST) scores significantly improved in both groups at all follow-up periods. Forward flexion and abduction were significantly improved in group B at all time points, whereas an initial improvement in forward flexion and abduction in group A was lost at final follow-up. There were no significant differences in final ASES or SST scores between groups at final follow-up. However, forward flexion, abduction, and the Short Form-36 physical component summary in group B were significantly better than group A at final follow-up. No significant improvements in internal rotation or SF-36 mental component summary were seen within or between the groups at final follow-up. Overall, there was no difference in patient satisfaction, with 88% satisfaction in group A and 95% satisfaction in group B (chi(2)=0.471, P=.4924).

CONCLUSIONS

A home-based, physician-guided therapy program may provide adequate rehabilitation after TSA, allowing for a reduction in cost for the overall procedure.

Automated In-Vitro Testing of Orthopaedic Implants: A Case Study in Shoulder Joint Replacement

This investigation presents the design and preliminary validation of a single station simulator with biaxial motion and loading designed to mimic the kinematics of the glenohumeral joint during arm abduction in the scapular plane. Although the design of the glenoid holder allows the glenoid component to translate in all three axes, it is primarily loaded axially, which brings it into contact with the oscillating humeral head, but is also loaded superiorly to simulate common subluxation of the humeral head. Simulating arm abduction in the scapular plane simplifies component alignment and removes the need for anterior—posterior loading, thereby creating a stable joint without the need to simulate capsular constraints. In this more physiologically accurate simulator design, the load and motion profiles influence the contact kinematics, but the wear path is ultimately determined by the conformity and constraint designed into the bearing couple. The wear data are determined and correlated with clinically retrieved glenoid components, as well as previously reported in-vitro studies, thus verifying use of the simulator in testing alternative materials and designs. The key design features, as well as the improvements proposed through this study, can be incorporated into the design of test fixtures for any other orthopaedic implant such as the hip, knee, spine, elbow, and finger.

Shoulder hemi arthroplasty radiological and clinical outcomes at more than two years follow-up

INTRODUCTION

Humeral head replacement is used for glenohumeral osteoarthritis in young or active patients, for conditions sparing glenoid cartilage or when glenoid implantation does not appear feasible. These surgical procedures usually give satisfactory results but there is a risk of glenoid erosion and a possible deterioration of long-term outcomes.

HYPOTHESIS

There is a risk of glenoid erosion after humeral head replacement which can be radiographically measured. The importance and progression of this erosion should be evaluated to determine its clinical relevance.

PATIENT AND METHODS

This is a retrospective study in 15 patients (19 shoulders) who underwent humeral head replacement between 1999 and 2006. There were 11 women and four men with an average age of 54.5 years. Etiologies were avascular necrosis (11 cases) and glenohumeral osteoarthritis (eight cases). All patients were reviewed in 2008 with more than two years follow-up. Clinical evaluation included measurements of range of motion and determination of the Constant and Murley score. In addition, the patients were asked to provide a subjective evaluation of their shoulder. Radiographic analysis included computer-assisted measurements.

RESULTS

The average follow-up was 45.8 months (26-108). At one year postoperative and at the final follow-up, clinical parameters such as the Constant and Murley score (37.4/100 preoperative to 64.4/100 at final follow-up) were significantly increased. During the first year, the rate of glenoid wear was 1.03 mm/year in case of avascular necrosis and 0.27 mm/year in case of osteoarthritis (p<0.001). Glenoid depth at the final follow-up was 6.97 mm for osteoarthritis compared to 4.59 mm for avascular necrosis (p<0.01). We did not find any correlation between glenoid erosion severity and clinical results.

DISCUSSION

Isolated humeral head replacement may result in glenoid erosion. The rate of progression of this erosion is clearly influenced by the etiology and therefore by the preexisting condition of the glenoid cartilage. At the average follow-up, the radiological glenoid deterioration is not correlated with pain or deterioration of clinical results.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV. Therapeutic study.

Microcomputed tomography assessment of glenoid component cementation techniques in total shoulder arthroplasty

Various strategies have been described to improve glenoid component cementation technique in shoulder arthroplasty, such as the "weephole" technique (WH), which is thought to allow for improved cement mantles by suction venting the glenoid vault through the coracoid. The purpose of this study was to compare the cement mantle created using standard syringe pressurization (SP) to WH or a new, modified weephole technique (MWH), not requiring specific instrumentation of the coracoid medullary canal. Fourteen cadaveric scapulae underwent preparation of the glenoid to allow for implantation of glenoid components. Component fixation was achieved using SP, WH, or MWH. The volumes of cement surrounding each individual peg on the component, of the cement mantle between the back of the glenoid, and of the reamed glenoid face were quantified using micro-CT. Compared to SP, significantly larger cement mantles were observed around all pegs with both the WH (p=0.023) and MWH (p=0.007). Similarly, both the WH and MWH techniques demonstrated significantly decreased cement behind the glenoid component (p=0.003) compared to SP, with no significant difference between the WH and the MWH techniques. Both WH and MWH techniques increase cement mantle volume around individual pegs and decrease the amount of glenoid face cement compared to conventional SP.

Cost effectiveness analysis of hemiarthroplasty and total shoulder arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) and hemiarthroplasty (HA) are two viable surgical treatment options for glenohumeral osteoarthritis. Recent systematic reviews and randomized trials suggest that TSA, while more costly initially, may have superior outcomes with regard to pain, function and quality of life with lower revision rates. This study compared the cost-effectiveness of TSA with HA.

METHODS

A Markov decision model was constructed for a cost-utility analysis of TSA compared to HA in a cohort of 64-year-old patients. Outcome probabilities and effectiveness were derived from the literature. Costs were estimated from the societal perspective using the national average Medicare reimbursement for the procedures in 2008 US dollars. Effectiveness was expressed in quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained. Principal outcome measures were average incremental costs, incremental effectiveness, incremental QALYs, and net health benefits.

RESULTS

In the base case, HA resulted in a lower number of average QALYs gained at a higher average cost to society and was, therefore, dominated by the TSA strategy for the treatment of glenohumeral osteoarthritis. The cost effectiveness ratio for TSA and HA were $957/QALY and $1,194/QALY respectively. Sensitivity analysis revealed that if the utility of TSA is equal to, or revision rate lower than HA, TSA continues to be a dominant strategy.

CONCLUSION

Total shoulder arthroplasty with a cemented glenoid is a cost-effective procedure, resulting in greater utility for the patient at a lower overall cost to the payer. These findings suggest that TSA is the preferred treatment for certain populations from both a patient and payer perspective.

Mid-term survivorship analysis of a shoulder replacement with a keeled glenoid and a modern cementing technique

We have investigated the mid-term outcome of total shoulder replacement using a keeled cemented glenoid component and a modern cementing technique with regard to the causes of failure and loosening of the components. Between 1997 and 2003 we performed 96 total shoulder replacements on 88 patients, 24 men and 64 women with a mean age of 69.7 years (31 to 82). The minimum follow-up was five years and at the time of review 87 shoulders (77 patients) were examined at a mean follow-up of 89.1 months (60 to 127). Cumulative survival curves were generated with re-operations (accomplished and planned), survivorship of the proshesis, loosening of the glenoid (defined as tilt > 5 degrees or subsidence > 5 mm), the presence of radiolucent lines and a Constant score of < 30 as the endpoints. There were two re-operations not involving revision of the implants and the survival rate of the prosthesis was 100.0% for the follow-up period, with an absolute Constant score of > 30 as the endpoint the survival rate was 98%. Radiological glenoid loosening was 9% after five years, and 33% after nine years. There was an incidence of 8% of radiolucent lines in more than three of six zones in the immediate post-operative period, of 37.0% after the first year which increased to 87.0% after nine years. There was no correlation between the score of Boileau and the total Constant score at the latest follow-up, but there was correlation between glenoid loosening and pain (p = 0.001). We found that total shoulder replacement had an excellent mid-term survivorship and clinical outcome. The surgical and cementing techniques were related to the decrease in radiolucent lines around the glenoid compared with earlier studies. One concern, however, was the fact that radiolucent lines increased over time and there was a rate of glenoid loosening of 9% after five years and 33% after nine years. This suggests that the design of the glenoid component, and the implantation and cementing techniques may need further improvement.

Total shoulder arthroplasty in dislocation arthropathy

Follow-up examinations of 45 patients who received shoulder arthroplasty for osteoarthritis following shoulder instability were conducted after 44 months. The goal of this study was to describe the clinical findings associated with advanced glenohumeral arthritis due to shoulder instability and instability repairs and to present the clinical results and complications of treating this with shoulder arthroplasty. The weighted average Constant score increased significantly from 49.4 to 81.3 points. There was no significant difference in the type of arthroplasty with 35 cases of total shoulder replacements and ten cases of hemiarthoplasty. The rate of complications was 40% (18/45 patients) with 20% (9/45 patients) requiring an operative revision. Patients with arthritis after instability repair showed great improvement in all qualities of the Constant score. Nonetheless, further analyses are required to determine why such a relatively young group of patients showed high complication rates.

In-vitro evaluation of a polyurethane compliant-layer glenoid for use in shoulder arthroplasty

A polyurethane glenoid component has been designed and manufactured as part of a total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) system based on compliant-layer (CL) technology. Compared with conventional TSA designs, this biomimetic approach offers reduced friction and wear and potentially improved longevity. In-vitro evaluation of the glenoid system has included loosening and stability tests, and wear measurement using a specially constructed wear simulator. The results obtained support the hypothesis that a CL glenoid design may provide improved resistance to dynamic loosening and rim erosion, and demonstrate superior wear performance over a standard ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene design. This study not only confirms the feasibility of a CL glenoid component but also highlights the potential to increase implant longevity, thereby allowing earlier surgical intervention before poor glenoid bone stock and soft tissue compromise the outcome of TSA.

Arthroscopic glenoid resurfacing as a surgical treatment for glenohumeral arthritis in the young patient: midterm results

PURPOSE

This study investigates the hypothesis that arthroscopic biologic glenoid resurfacing without humeral head replacement will provide results similar to humeral hemiarthroplasty in patients aged under 60 years.

METHODS

Twenty-three consecutive patients aged 15 to 58 years (mean, 32 years) with severe glenohumeral arthritis were prospectively treated with arthroscopic resurfacing of the glenoid with a biologic patch (Restore; DePuy Orthopaedics, Warsaw, IN). Three patients left the study, leaving twenty patients to complete the study. Data collected preoperatively and postoperatively included active and passive range of motion and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES); Constant-Murley; Rowe; University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA); Short Form 12 (SF-12); and visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores. All patients had preoperative and postoperative imaging, either computed tomography scan (n = 2) or magnetic resonance imaging (n = 18), and were re-examined 3 to 6 years after surgery.

RESULTS

At last follow-up, 15 patients (75%) remained satisfied. Five patients had proceeded to have surface replacement arthroplasty, but four of five said that they would undergo the arthroscopic procedure again. Active and passive range of motion improved in flexion (80 degrees to 150 degrees ), abduction (60 degrees to 120 degrees ), external rotation with the arm at the side (10 degrees to 30 degrees ), external rotation in abduction (30 degrees to 70 degrees ), and internal rotation (10 degrees to 50 degrees ). Each rating scale used showed statistically significant (P < .05) improvement from preoperatively to postoperatively: VAS, from 8 to 2; ASES, from 22 (out of 100) to 78; UCLA, from 15 (out of 35) to 29; Rowe, from 55 (out of 100) to 81; and Constant-Murley, from 26 to 79. Six of eight parameters on the SF-12 also showed statistically significant improvements.

CONCLUSIONS

Glenoid resurfacing with the Restore patch provided statistically significant improvements for young patients with severe glenohumeral arthritis as measured by the VAS, ASES, UCLA, Rowe, Constant-Murley, and SF-12 scores at 3 to 6 years of follow-up.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, prospective case series investigating the effect of arthroscopic resurfacing rather than shoulder humeral hemiarthroplasty for grade IV arthritis of the glenohumeral joint.

Indications, complications, and results of shoulder arthroplasty

OBJECTIVE

To provide estimates of patient outcomes following shoulder arthroplasty using Neer-II type humeral prosthesis and to examine variation in outcomes due to patient and prosthesis characteristics.

METHODS

North American and Western European published articles were identified through a computerized literature search and bibliography review. Studies were included if they enrolled 15 or more patients, discriminated between hemi-arthroplasty (HEMI) and total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) and measured pain relief, gain in range of motion (ROM), radiographic follow-up (> 2 years), short- and long-term complications, and revision surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 40 studies satisfied the inclusion criteria. The total number of patients enrolled was 3584. The mean follow-up was 59 months. The mean patient age was 62 years, 65% of patients were women and 73% underwent TSA. All reports showed relevant pain relief, increase in ROM, and high satisfaction rates for HEMI and TSA in both osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The overall rate of revision was 8%. Significant differences between HEMI and TSA for both diagnoses were found for all outcome parameters.

CONCLUSION

Shoulder arthroplasty is a safe and effective procedure for OA and RA patients. The diagnosis, shoulder pathology, and prosthesis specifics were significant predictors of outcomes. We therefore emphasize that conclusions on the outcome of shoulder arthroplasty can only be made if differentiated between these patient and prosthesis specifics. Limitations in the reporting style of these articles severely constrain the ability to explore variation in outcomes due to study, patient, or prosthesis characteristics and restrict their generalisability.

The Swedish Elbow Arthroplasty Register and The Swedish Shoulder Arthroplasty Register: Two new Swedish arthroplasty registers

Two new national orthopedic quality registers were started in Sweden in 1999, the Swedish Shoulder Arthroplasty Register and the Swedish Elbow Arthroplasty Register. Both are owned by the Swedish Shoulder and Elbow Section of the Swedish Orthopedic Association. The purpose of the registers is to improve surgical techniques and selection of implants and identify individual risk factors. Two of the main problems in starting a new national quality register involve inducing all centers in the country to participate and deciding on the data to register.

Shoulder arthroplasty: prosthetic options and indications

Glenohumeral arthropathy and failed shoulder arthroplasty can lead to debilitating pain, reduced motion and strength, and limited function. Primary osteoarthritis, posttraumatic osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, cuff tear arthropathy, and osteonecrosis are common in this patient population. Shoulder arthroplasty may fail because of problems with the prosthesis, such as wear, loosening, and dislocation of the components, or because of bone and soft-tissue problems, such as glenoid arthrosis and rotator cuff tear. The disparate pathogenesis of these processes presents unique challenges to the treating surgeon and requires diagnosis-specific treatment options, whether involving hemiarthroplasty, total shoulder arthroplasty, or reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. Until recently, prosthesis options were limited to a stemmed humeral component with or without a polyethylene glenoid component. The array of prosthetic options currently available allows individualized treatment.

Simulation of surgical glenoid resurfacing using three-dimensional computed tomography of the arthritic glenohumeral joint: the amount of glenoid retroversion that can be corrected

HYPOTHESIS

The magnitude of glenoid retroversion that can be surgically corrected in total shoulder arthroplasty and still enable implantation of a glenoid component has not been established. We hypothesized that increased retroversion will require smaller glenoid components for successful implantation when the glenoid is surgically corrected and that correction beyond 20 degrees of retroversion is not feasible without peg penetration.

METHODS

Using 3-dimensional models created from computed tomography of 19 patients with advanced shoulder osteoarthritis, we simulated glenoid resurfacing on varying degrees of retroverted, osteoarthritic glenoids using an in-line 3-peg glenoid component and asymmetric reaming to correct version.

RESULTS

Glenoids with preoperative retroversion of less than 12 degrees could always be implanted with 46-mm and 52-mm glenoid components at neutral version without vault violation. Conversely, glenoids with greater than 18 degrees of preoperative retroversion could not be implanted at neutral version due to vault violation from the pegs. The average preoperative glenoid retroversion of patients in which a 46-mm glenoid was implanted at neutral version was 8.9 degrees +/- 6.4 degrees compared with 19.0 degrees +/- 7.1 degrees for those that could not be implanted at neutral (P = .005).

DISCUSSION

Computer-aided surgical simulation shows that glenoid retroversion is a critical factor in determining successful glenoid implantation. Smaller sized glenoid components allow for greater version correction and less residual postsimulation retroversion when an in-line pegged component is used.

Arthroplasty in the young patient

Shoulder pain and loss of function caused by degenerative joint disease is extremely disabling to young people who have an active lifestyle. If non-operative and minimally invasive treatment fails, shoulder arthroplasty is a reasonable option. This article reviews the options and indications for their use in shoulder disability in the young patient.

Complications in shoulder arthroplasty: an analysis of 485 cases

The aim of this study was to analyse the complication rates of six different shoulder arthroplasty concepts for different diagnoses in the short and midterm. The study included 485 primary shoulder arthroplasties. The mean follow-up of the cohort was 3.5 (1-10) years. Complications were classified into three categories: (1) without reoperation, (2) soft tissue revision and (3) implant revision. In total, 56 complications were recorded (11.6%): 34 (7%) were category 1 complications, 11 (2.3%) were category 2 and 11 (2.3%) were category 3. For the whole cohort the median follow-up was 1.6 years (1-10 years) and the survival rate without any complication was 90.5% (95% CI: 87.9-93.1). Patients rated the result of their surgery in 270 (55.7%) cases as very satisfied, in 148 (30.5%) as satisfied, in 43 (8.9%) as somewhat disappointed and in 24 (4.9%) as disappointed. A relatively low complication rate was found in this study. Long-term observations are necessary to confirm these results.

Cementless surface replacement arthroplasty of the shoulder with biologic resurfacing of the glenoid

BACKGROUND

We report a retrospective review of surface replacement hemiarthroplasty of the shoulder with biologic resurfacing of the glenoid, for relatively young patients suffering from advanced glenohumeral arthritis. It was hoped that the resurfacing fascia would prevent glenoid erosion for a period of time.

METHODS

This surgery was performed by two surgeons between 1996 and 2005. The indications for the arthroplasty were severe pain and limitation of function, in relatively young patients with advanced glenohumeral arthritis but an intact rotator cuff.

RESULTS

Eighteen shoulders, with an average follow-up of 4.8 years (range 2-10.6), were available for assessment. The average age was 54.8 years. Postoperative Constant-Murley Score averaged 71.4 points; the mean sex- and age-adjusted Constant Score was 83.9%. The mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score was 74.4 points. Average active forward elevation was 130 degrees. Eighty three percent of the patients were satisfied with the long-term result. Radiographic follow-up demonstrated that none of the prostheses was loose; however moderate to severe glenoid erosion was present in 56% of shoulders.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that this procedure is useful in the treatment of younger patients suffering from advanced glenohumeral arthritis of the shoulder; however the interposed anterior capsule did not protect the glenoid from mid-term erosion by the humeral prosthesis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, retrospective case series.

Type II error in the shoulder and elbow literature

Although the randomized controlled trial (RCT) has been recognized as the gold standard for comparing interventions, trials that fail to show a difference between 2 interventions may suffer from type II error. This study was conducted to determine if the published RCTs in the shoulder and elbow literature have sufficient power to minimize potential type II error and conclude accurately that no difference between interventions exists. We searched Medline for RCTs with negative results in Arthroscopy, the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (American), and the Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery (1994 through 2007) with strict inclusion criteria pertaining to care of shoulder and elbow injuries. Eligible studies were analyzed for type II error and the power of their conclusions. The power to detect a difference, if in fact one was present, was only 41% (common standard, 80%). It is a critically important distinction to conclude no difference was observed rather than no true difference between interventions exists.

Sports participation after shoulder replacement surgery

BACKGROUND

Return to sports after total hip or knee replacement surgery has been extensively described. However, the return to general sporting activities after shoulder replacement surgery has not been well documented. With improved implant survivorship, patient expectation of function is high.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to assess the outcome and ability of patients returning to sports after shoulder replacement surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Seventy-five patients (86 shoulder replacements) who participated in sports or recreational activities before surgery were followed for a minimum of 2 years. Their preoperative and postoperative sports participation and level of competition were assessed. The frequency of their activity, modifications in activity, and length of time it took to resume sports participation after the operation were all reviewed.

RESULTS

The mean age at follow-up was 65.5 years (range, 24-88). The average follow-up was 3.7 years (range, 2-9.4). Sixty-four percent of the patients stated that one of the reasons they had the surgery performed was participation in sports. Thirty-four of 48 of these patients (71%) demonstrated an improvement in their ability to play their sport and 50% increased their frequency of participation postoperatively. Softball athletes demonstrated the least favorable return; only 2 of 10 patients returned. Swimming, tennis, and golf were the most popular sports; participants in these sports showed the most favorable improvement and actual return. The mean time to partial return to sports was 3.6 months, and 5.8 months to full participation.

CONCLUSION

Patients are able to successfully return to sports after shoulder arthroplasty. Many returned with improved performance and increased frequency in participation in a timely manner.

The fulcrum axis: a new method for determining glenoid version

Previously applied methods for the evaluation of glenoid version did not use body-surface landmarks; therefore, it is not possible to get information about glenoid version from the outside. The tip of the coracoid and the posterolateral corner of the acromion can easily be found on the body surface. These 2 landmarks were connected by a line called the fulcrum axis. After using an experimental x-ray technique in 143 human cadaver scapulae, 5 independent observers identified the fulcrum axis and the glenoid fossa twice. The resulting overall angle between the fulcrum axis and the glenoid fossa was 1.8 degrees (SD 4.5). The fulcrum axis may be used for the preoperative planning and the intraoperative evaluation of glenoid version while performing total shoulder arthroplasties. As the fulcrum axis and the plane of the glenoid fossa are approximately parallel, the fulcrum axis can be used to position patients for performing a true antero-posterior x-ray.

Total shoulder replacement in young and middle-aged patients with glenohumeral osteoarthritis

Our aim in this prospective study was to evaluate the outcome of total shoulder replacement in the treatment of young and middle-aged active patients with primary glenohumeral osteoarthritis. We reviewed 21 patients (21 shoulders) with a mean age of 55 years (37 to 60). The mean follow-up was seven years (5 to 9). The same anatomical, third-generation, cemented implant had been used in all patients. All the patients were evaluated radiologically and clinically using the Constant and Murley score.

No patients required revision. In one a tear of the supraspinatus tendon occurred. Overall, 20 patients (95%) were either very satisfied (n = 18) or satisfied (n = 2) with the outcome. Significant differences (p < 0.0001) were found for all categories of the Constant and Murley score pre- and post-operatively. The mean Constant and Murley score increased from 24.1 points (10 to 45) to 64.5 points (39 to 93), and the relative score from 30.4% (11% to 50%) to 83% (54% to 116%). No clinical or radiological signs of loosening of the implant were seen.

For young and middle-aged patients with osteoarthritis, third-generation total shoulder replacement is a viable method of treatment with a low rate of complications and excellent results in the mid-term.

Comparison of the short-term functional results after surface replacement and total shoulder arthroplasty for osteoarthritis of the shoulder: a matched-pair analysis

INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE

The purpose of this clinical study with a matched-pair design was to compare the functional short-term results obtained in patients with primary osteoarthritis of the shoulder treated with cementless surface replacement of the humeral head (CUP) with those obtained after total shoulder replacement (TSR).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-two patients (average age 61.4 years; 11 men, 11 women) with primary osteoarthritis who obtained surface replacement of the humeral head were matched to a control group of 22 patients (average age 61.1 years, 11 men, 11 women) with the same in- and exclusion criteria that were treated with a total shoulder arthroplasty. Preoperative status, perioperative results and postoperative status (Constant score and subcategories, subjective status, range of motion, radiographic evaluation) were compared in all patients and controls. Non-parametric analyses were used to compare the results in both groups.

RESULTS

Patients in the CUP group showed significantly better perioperative results (time of surgery, blood loss, days of inpatient treatment) compared to the patients in the TSR group. Results at 6 and 12 months revealed significant improvement of clinical function, significant pain reduction, and high subjective satisfaction rates in both groups. Concerning the absolute values, there were tendencially better results obtained in the TSR group compared to the CUP group at 12 months follow-up (Constant score 67.23 +/- 11.71 vs. 59.25 +/- 14.53), but only the criteria "mobility" and "abduction" revealed statistical significance. Regarding the relative improvement at 12 months compared to the baseline status, patients treated with TSR showed a significant better benefit in the total Constant score (+41.32 +/- 0.04 vs. +26.16 +/- 8.82) and in range of motion. Regarding the subjective assessment, there was no statistically significant difference in patients with TSR (mean value 1,5 (+/-0.55)) and patients with CUP (mean value 2,3 (+/-0.92)). Two CUP implants had to be removed during the follow-up period owing to secondary glenoidal erosion.

CONCLUSIONS

At short-term follow-up, surface replacement as a technically less demanding technique provided only slightly inferior results to TSR. We therefore believe that CUP arthroplasty is a therapeutic option and can be recommended in patients with primary osteoarthritis when limited to strictly defined indications.

[Hemiarthroplasty or total shoulder replacement in glenohumeral osteoarthritis?]

Shoulder arthroplasty has proven to be a successful option in the treatment of glenohumeral osteoarthritis. Although introduced in the 1970s by Ch. Neer, resurfacing of the glenoid remains controversial. With regard to some single prospective studies total shoulder replacement (TSR) seems to be superior to humeral head replacement (HHR) in the treatment of concentric osteoarthritis. The current literature shows that TSR leads to a better shoulder function and less pain. The decision on whether to perform a TSR or HHR should be guided by the individual pathology. The final treatment should be reliable in terms of a better shoulder function, reduced pain, and good strength. The role of glenoid loosening in TSR and its impact on shoulder function in the long term remains uncertain and has to be clarified in the future.

In vitro and finite element analysis of glenoid bone/baseplate interaction in the reverse shoulder design

We developed biomechanical and finite element models, using high-strength polyurethane foam blocks, to represent the glenoid bone/baseplate junction to determine if increasing the distance between the glenoid bone and the center of rotation of the glenosphere increases baseplate motion during static loading in the reverse shoulder design. Although there was a general trend toward increased baseplate motion with increasing distance from the glenoid to the center of rotation, in vitro mechanical testing revealed no significant difference between the 7 glenosphere types tested, with average baseplate motion during 1000 load cycles ranging from 90 mum to 120 mum. Results from the finite element analysis strongly correlated with the in vitro mechanical testing. The magnitude of baseplate motion occurring in a modeled representation of bone under simulated physiologic loading conditions was similar for the 7 reverse shoulder glenoid components tested in this study.

Elective shoulder arthroplasty in patients older than ninety years of age

This study examined the outcome of elective shoulder arthroplasty for glenohumeral osteoarthritis or rotator cuff arthropathy in patients aged older than 90 years. The study included 7 shoulders in 6 patients with an average age of 93 years 5 months, (range, 91 years 0 months to 97 years 4 months). Average follow-up was 2.2 years, (range, 1-4 years). Preoperative range of motion, Simple Shoulder Test (SST) scores, and Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form 36-Item Health Survey (SF-36) scores were obtained and compared with postoperative values at 3 and 6 months and yearly thereafter. Average forward elevation improved from 87 degrees to 137 degrees (P < .00001), and external rotation to the side improved from 0 degrees to 50 degrees (P < .0001). The SST scores improved from a preoperative average of 2.0 to 6.1 at 3 months (P < .0001), 6.9 at 6 months (P < .0001), 8.0 at 1 year (P < .00001), and 7.4 at 2 years (P < .0001). Significant improvements occurred in 6 of 8 SF-36 domains: Mental Health (P < .05), Vitality (P < .01), Role limitations due to emotional problems (P < .05), Social Function (P < .001), Role limitations due to physical health (P < .001), and Comfort (P < .00001). No patient had worse pain or function postoperatively. These data suggest that elective shoulder arthroplasty can be performed in patients 90 years of age and older, providing excellent pain relief, improved functional outcome, and enhanced general health status.

Bone grafting severe glenoid defects in revision shoulder arthroplasty

During revision total shoulder arthroplasty, bone grafting severe glenoid defects without concomitant reinsertion of a glenoid prosthesis may be the only viable reconstructive option. However, the fate of these grafts is unknown. We questioned the durability and subsidence of the graft and the associated clinical outcomes in patients who have this procedure. We retrospectively reviewed 11 patients with severe glenoid deficiencies from aseptic loosening of a glenoid component who underwent conversion of a total shoulder arthroplasty to a humeral head replacement and glenoid bone grafting. Large cavitary defects were grafted with either allograft cancellous chips or bulk structural allograft, depending on the presence or absence of glenoid vault wall defects, without prosthetic glenoid resurfacing. Clinical outcomes (Penn Shoulder Score, maximum 100 points) improved from 23 to 57 at a minimum 2-year followup (mean, 38 months; range, 24-73 months). However, we observed substantial graft subsidence in all patients, with eight of 11 patients having subsidence greater than 5 mm; the magnitude of graft resorption did not correlate with clinical outcome scores. Greater subsidence was seen with structural than cancellous chip allografts. Bone grafting large glenoid defects during revision shoulder arthroplasty can improve clinical outcome scores, but the substantial resorption of the graft material remains a concern.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III Prognostic study.

Rehabilitation following reverse total shoulder arthroplasty

Reverse or inverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) is becoming a widely accepted surgical intervention. This procedure is specifically designed for the treatment of glenohumeral (GH) joint arthritis or complex fractures, when associated with irreparable rotator cuff (RC) damage or in the presence of RC arthropathy. Additionally, rTSA is an option for the revision of a previously failed conventional total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) or hemiarthroplasty (HA) in the RC-deficient shoulder. The physical therapist, surgeon, and patient must take into consideration that the postoperative course for a patient following rTSA should be different than the rehabilitation following a traditional TSA. rTSA has only recently been approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the United States; however, nearly a 20-year history of its use exists in Europe. To date, we are aware of no peer-reviewed published descriptions of the postoperative rehabilitation for patients having undergone this procedure. The purpose of this paper is to review the indications for rTSA, focusing on underlying pathology, and to outline a rehabilitation protocol founded on basic science principles and our experience working with patients following rTSA.

Long-term outcome of shoulder arthrodesis performed with plate fixation: 18 patients examined after 3-15 years

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

There have been few reports on the long-term function after shoulder arthrodesis. We report the outcome after shoulder arthrodesis with plate fixation in 18 patients who were followed for 3-15 years.

METHODS

25 patients with a median age of 64 (19-75) years were operated with a shoulder arthrodesis between 1982 and 2003. Standard AO surgical technique with plating was used in all patients. 18 of the patients were examined retrospectively after a mean of 8 (3-15) years. 6 of the other patients had died and 1 refused examination.

RESULTS

Radiologically, all but two arthrodeses fused completely. The remaining two were partially fused, within the glenohumeral joint or between humerus and acromion. The mean Oxford shoulder score was 32 and the mean ASES shoulder index was 59. Nine patients had intermittent or continuous pain; their mean pain score on a visual analog scale was 3. One patient had been re-operated after 4 months because of severe pain and 1 was operated due to a humeral shaft fracture after 8 months. 1 patient suffered from a complex regional pain syndrome. No infections occurred.

INTERPRETATION

In this patient series there were few complications after shoulder arthrodesis, and the longterm functional results were acceptable.