Correcting retroversion during reverse shoulder arthroplasty for B2 glenoids leads to medialization and worsens impingement on the scapular neck

Abstract

BackgroundReverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is a viable option for posteriorly-eroded B2 glenoids. But little is known in this setting about the effect of baseplate version on impingement on the scapular neck, which affects the risk of notching, the risk of impingement-related instability, and the passive range of motion (ROM). Correcting retroversion with eccentric reaming leads to medialization to achieve full support of the baseplate, bringing the humerus closer to the scapula and potentially increasing impingement on the scapular neck. We hypothesized that correcting retroversion in B2 glenoids would result in increased medialization and worse impingement on the scapular neck. MethodsTen patients with Walch B2 glenoids underwent a simulated RSA. For each patient, a 25 mm baseplate was digitally implanted along the inferior margin of the glenoid, centered anterior-to-posterior, in 0˚ of inclination, with 100% backside contact, with a 36 mm glenosphere and 145˚ neck-shaft angle. Impingement-free ROM was then simulated with 17 different implant arrangements: baseplate version of P (the pathologic version), −15˚, -10˚, −5˚, 0˚, and baseplate lateralization +0, +3mm, +6mm. Two additional simulations consisted of half-wedge baseplates seated at the best fit (matching the paleoglenoid) and 0˚ version. The primary endpoint was external rotation at the side (ERS), based on in-vivo analyses that reveal this as the primary mode of notching and impingement-related instability. Data was analyzed using paired t-test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and a multivariable regression analysis. ResultsIn every simulation in every patient, correcting retroversion worsened scapular neck impingement with ERS, the primary mode of notching and impingement-related instability. Overall, implantation in retroversion led to 33% more ERS (P = .02). The magnitude of this effect was much greater with medialized glenoids: 100% more ERS for +0 baseplates and 23% more ERS for +6 (P = .008). Half-wedge baseplates resulted in more ERS than +0 baseplates: 2.3x more at 0˚ version (P = .02). Any correction of version resulted in increased medialization (all P < .01), which led to worse scapular neck impingement. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that baseplate lateralization has the most impact on scapular neck impingement (β = 0.640; P < .001). ConclusionIn B2 glenoids undergoing RSA, correcting the glenoid retroversion with eccentric reaming results in significantly more medialization, worsening scapular neck impingement with ERS. This can increase the risk of notching, may lead to impingement-related instability, and decreases passive ERS. Level of evidenceClinical science study