Humeral Stem Research Articles

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears and cuff tear arthropathy: a systematic review.

To report the outcomes and complications of reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) in massive irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCT) and cuff tear arthropathy (CTA). A systematic review of the literature contained in Medline, Cochrane, EMBASE, Google Scholar and Ovid databases was conducted on May 1, 2016, according to PRISMA guidelines. The key words "reverse total shoulder arthroplasty" or "reverse total shoulder prostheses" with "rotator cuff tears"; "failed rotator cuff surgery"; "massive rotator cuff tears"; "irreparable rotator cuff tears"; "cuff tear arthropathy"; "outcomes"; "complications" were matched. All articles reporting outcomes and complications of RSA for the management of MIRCT or CTA were included. The comparison between preoperative and postoperative clinical scores, as well as range of motion (ROM), was performed using the Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test. P values lower than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Seven articles were included in our qualitative synthesis. A statistically significant improvement in all clinical scores and ROM was found comparing the preoperative value with the postoperative value. The degrees of retroversion of the humeral stem of the RSA do not influence the functional outcomes in a statistically significant fashion. There were 17.4% of complications. The most frequent was heterotopic ossification, occurring in 6.6% of patients. Revision surgery was necessary in 7.3% of patients. RSA restores pain-free ROM and improves function of the shoulder in patients with MIRCT or CTA. However, complications occur in a high percentage of patients. The lack of level I studies limits the real understanding of the potentials and limitations of RSA for the management of MIRCT and CTA.

Radiographic changes and clinical outcomes associated with an adjustable diaphyseal press-fit humeral stem in primary reverse shoulder arthroplasty

Press-fit humeral fixation in reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has become increasingly popular; however, radiographic analysis of these stems is limited. We aimed to evaluate the radiographic and clinical outcomes of an adjustable diaphyseal press-fit humeral stem in primary RSA. We conducted a retrospective review of 232 primary RSAs in 219 patients performed by a single surgeon using this system. Radiographic outcomes were evaluated in patients with at least 2 years of radiographic follow-up. Standardized postoperative digital radiographs were analyzed for loosening, osteolysis, and stress shielding. Clinical outcomes in patients who also had complete clinical data sets were evaluated at the most recent follow-up. Radiographic evidence of loosening was identified in 1 RSA (0.4%) associated with deep infection. Aseptic loosening was not observed. No stems were identified as being at high risk for loosening. Internal stress shielding was observed proximal to the coated diaphyseal component in 226 shoulders (97.4%). This finding was often visible at 3 months (92.7%) and predictably progressed on subsequent radiographs. Progression beyond the 2-year period was rarely seen (4.4%). No external stress shielding or osteolysis was observed. Thirty-six complications occurred in 33 patients (15.1%). At an average follow-up of 36.6 months, significant improvements were identified in all measured clinical outcomes (P < .001). Predictable fixation is achieved using an adjustable diaphyseal press-fit humeral system in primary RSA. Internal stress shielding is commonly observed but does not appear to compromise quality of fixation or clinical outcomes.

How should I fixate the subscapularis in total shoulder arthroplasty? A systematic review of pertinent subscapularis repair biomechanics.

The present study aimed to review the biomechanical outcomes of subscapularis repair techniques during total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) to assist in clinical decision making. A systematic review of multiple databases was performed by searching PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and all databases within EBSCOhost to find biomechanical studies of subscapularis repair techniques in cadaveric models of TSA. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. In the majority of studies, lesser tuberosity osteotomy (LTO) techniques had greater load to failure and less cyclic displacement compared to subscapularis tenotomy or peel methods. LTO repairs with sutures wrapped around the humeral stem demonstrated superior biomechanical outcomes compared to techniques using only a tension band. In terms of load to failure, the strongest repair of any study was a dual-row fleck LTO using four sutures wrapped around the stem. Several cadaveric studies have shown superior biomechanical outcomes with LTO techniques compared to tenotomy. In the majority of studies, the strongest subscapularis repair technique in terms of biomechanical outcomes is a compression LTO. Using three or more sutures wrapped around the implant and the addition of a tension suture may increase the biomechanical strength of the LTO repair.

Use of a shorter humeral stem in revision reverse shoulder arthroplasty

The purpose of this study was to examine the outcomes of revision reverse arthroplasty using short bone-preserving humeral components in revising a long-stemmed component. During a 7-year period, 39 patients who underwent revision reverse shoulder arthroplasty using the long to short humeral component technique were included. The mean age was 72 years. Prior implants used in the primary setting included anatomic (n = 26), hemiarthroplasty (n = 11), and reverse (n = 2). At a follow-up of 3 years (2-5), 5 shoulders (13%) required revision surgery, including 1 for a periprosthetic humerus fracture and 4 for glenoid component loosening. The survival free of revision for any reason and revision for humeral disease was 84% and 94%, respectively. One patient experienced a nondisplaced greater tuberosity fracture at 18 months postoperatively that healed without operative intervention. There were no dislocations or infections. Overall, patients experienced excellent overall improvements in their pain levels and shoulder motion (P < .001), with a postoperative 91% satisfaction rate as well as postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score of 68 and Simple Shoulder Test score of 6.7. At most recent radiographic follow-up, 1 (5%) patient had grade 3 humeral lucency. Preserving bone stock through conversion to a shorter reverse humeral stem in the revision setting is a reasonable option with good short- to intermediate-term results and low rates of humeral complications. Using the shorter stem components provides adequate stability and high rates of humeral component ingrowth.

Restoration of Humeral Bone Stock Two Years After Internal Fixation of a Periprosthetic Fracture with a Loose Stem

We describe 2 patients who sustained a periprosthetic humeral fracture with a loosened long-stemmed Coonrad-Morrey total elbow prosthesis. As noted in the literature, the success rate for a major revision with use of strut grafts is around 70%; therefore, both cases were managed without revision of the prosthesis. A submuscular locking plate was placed following typical fracture fixation principles. Screws that interfered with the humeral stem and the distal flange stabilized both the distal fragment and the humeral stem. At 2 years postoperatively, both fractures had healed, with increased endosteal bone stock. In each case, the prosthesis was successfully salvaged, and radiographic reconstitution of the implant-bone interface was noted after 2 years.

Convertible stemmed implants simplify revision from anatomic to reverse total shoulder arthroplasty

Total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) is an increasingly common procedure performed to treat end-stage glenohumeral arthritis; however, with 15-year survival rates of anatomic TSA of only 45% revision procedures are also increasingly common. In cases of revision to reverse prostheses, the use of convertible stem systems (in which the same humeral stem may be used for both anatomic and reverse arthroplasty designs) simplifies the operative procedure by allowing retention of the humeral stem, resulting in significant decreases in operative times, intra-operative blood loss, procedural and post-procedural complication rates, and cost when compared to non-convertible implant systems.

Effect of Humeral Component Version on Outcomes in Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty.

Although reverse shoulder arthroplasty provides excellent clinical results in appropriately selected patients, loss of external and internal rotation may occur. Component selection, design, and placement affect postoperative results. Recent studies considered the effect of humeral component version on functional results. The current study investigated whether humeral stem retroversion affects the outcomes of reverse shoulder arthroplasty with a retrospective review of a multisurgeon, industry-sponsored, prospectively gathered database of a single reverse shoulder arthroplasty implant. All patients had at least 2-year follow-up. Clinical outcomes, including American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, visual analog scale pain score, Short Form-12 Mental and Physical Component scores, range of motion, and internal rotation function, were compared between patients with humeral retroversion of 10° or less (group A) and those with humeral retroversion of 20° or greater (group B). Radiographic outcomes were compared. The analysis included 64 patients (group A, 29 patients; group B, 35 patients). No clinical or statistically significant difference was found in American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores. Both groups showed statistical and clinical improvement vs preoperative scores, with group A averaging 77.8 and group B averaging 79.2 at final follow-up. No differences were found between groups in range of motion or ability to perform tasks that require shoulder internal rotation. Patients can expect good clinical improvement after reverse shoulder arthroplasty. No difference was found in clinical or radiologic outcomes based on humeral component retroversion. Despite the theoretical increase in external rotation when the humeral component is placed closer to native retroversion, the results did not show this effect. [Orthopedics. 2017; 40(3):179-186.].

Is the humeral stem useful in anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty?

PurposeTraditionally and since Neer, the humeral side of shoulder arthroplasty consisted of a stemmed component but the real need for stem fixation in total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) has barely been investigated. The current study evaluated the clinical and radiological outcomes with a stemless TSA.MethodsForty-seven patients, 20 female and 27 male patients with an average age of 63, were selected in four orthopaedic centres during a four year period, and implanted with a humeral head prosthesis with a three-fin design and titanium coating. Aetiologies were: primary osteoarthritis (29), fracture sequelae (12) and avascular osteonecrosis (6). Minimum follow-up was two years (range 24–51 months). The patients were evaluated with the Constant score (CS) and radiological exams.ResultsTwo patients had revision of the implants, one for persistent pain and one for secondary massive rotator cuff tear. At the final follow-up, the mean CS was 69, with an average gain of 36. All parameters improved with a foremost in pain relief. Mean satisfaction rate was 87%. Average anterior active elevation was 131° with a gain of 48. Radiologic evaluations showed stable implants in all cases. However, 17 cases demonstrated radiolucent areas, particularly superior and lateral to the implant, which neither decreased nor increased with time. No revisions were related to humeral component loosening.ConclusionsStemless TSA provides the same results as compared to TSA with a humeral stem. We are still unsure as to the nature of the lucent zones and we are continuing our investigation to better understand this radiological phenomenon.

A Short and Convertible Humeral Stem for Shoulder Arthroplasty

Introduction As the revision number of shoulder arthroplasties increases, we focused on the difficulties of extracting or converting the humeral stem. The purpose of this multicentric study was to assess the outcomes and the radiographic results of a new, short, and convertible humeral stem (Aequalis Ascend™ Flex, Tornier SAS–Wright Medical Inc®, Bloomington, MN, USA), which could settle these complex revision problems. Methods Sixty-six primary shoulder replacements were enrolled with an average follow-up of 25.6 months (24–30.8 months). There were 24 reversed shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) and 42 anatomical shoulder arthroplasty. The functional outcomes were evaluated with the Constant-Murley score (CS) and the active range of motion. Humeral stems were radiologically analyzed at the last follow-up with special care to mechanical complications and bone resorption. Results The average CS improved from 30 preoperatively to 74 postoperatively ( P &lt; .0001) for anatomical shoulder replacements and from 21 to 63 ( P &lt; .0001) for RSA. The active anterior elevation and external rotation improved from 97° and 6° to 163° and 46°, respectively, for anatomical prosthesis ( P &lt; .0001) and from 79° and 10° to 139° and 28°, respectively, for RSA ( P &lt; .0001). No mechanical complication or loosening was reported. The comparison between postoperative and last follow-up X-rays showed a tendency to medial cortical bone thinning in some cases without any clinical relevance. Conclusion Two years follow-up of this short stem showed promising clinical and radiographic results without implant-related complication. Further X-rays study would be necessary. Level of evidence: IV

Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: Salvage Procedure for Failed Prior Arthroplasty.

BackgroundTo evaluate the clinical outcome of revision of primary shoulder replacement by using reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA).MethodsSeven patients underwent revision RTSA with a mean follow-up of 22.1 months (range, 12 to 54 months). Their mean age at the time of operation was 75.5 years (range, 70 to 80 years). Assessments were performed on the preoperative and postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) score, muscle strength, range of motion, University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) score, Constant score, subjective satisfaction and the anteroposterior and axillary views of the glenohumeral joint. The primary operation was hemiarthroplasty in 5 patients, total shoulder replacement in 1 patient, and reverse shoulder arthroplasty in 1 patient. The cause of revision surgery was infection in 2 patients, humeral stem loosening in 2 patients, glenoid arthropathy in 2 patients, and glenoid loosening in 1 patient. The mean duration from primary operation to revision surgery was 52 months (range, 27 to 120 months).ResultsThe VAS score for pain during motion was improved from 7.3 preoperatively to 2.1 postoperatively (p = 0.03). There were increases in the mean active forward flexion (from 62.1° to 92.8°), abduction (from 70° to 87.1°), external rotation (from 44.2° to 47.4°), and internal rotation (from L5 to L4; p > 0.05) postoperatively. Performance in activities of daily living improved (p > 0.05), except for lifting 10 lb above the shoulder (from 1.2 to 1.1; p = 0.434). Overall, 5 of 7 patients were satisfied with the results of revision surgery. The mean Constant score improved from 44.8 preoperatively to 57.1 postoperatively (p = 0.018). The mean UCLA score improved from 12.8 preoperatively to 22.8 postoperatively (p = 0.027). In the postoperative radiological evaluation, no radiolucency was observed around the base plate or humeral stem.ConclusionsPain could be reduced after revision RTSA, but improvements in range of motion and function were difficult to achieve. We think that the patients' satisfaction was relatively high despite the low function score due to the preoperative severe pain and marked limitation of range of motion.

Exploring Failure of Total Shoulder Arthroplasty Systems Through Implant Retrieval, Radiographic, and Clinical Data Analyses

Background Retrieved clinically failed anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) components as well as associated radiographs and medical records were analyzed in order to investigate the origins of clinical failure(s) of TSA components. Methods Fifty TSA systems were retrieved from 48 patients including 27 females and 21 males; components were implanted for an average of 68 months (range, 2–267). Data obtained through radiographic analysis, medical records review, and damage mode analysis of each component were performed and statistically analyzed. Results Significant correlations were found between glenoid loosening and preoperative pain ( r = 1.00, P &lt; .001), humeral stem scratching and humeral loosening (Zone 1: r = .60, P &lt; .01; Zone 2: r = .45, P = .03; Zone 3: r = .45, P = .03) , as well as glenoid damage and rotator cuff tears ( r = .36, P = .02). Discussion Wear and damage of the glenoid and humeral components, which may result from rotator cuff tearing, may lead to accelerated loosening, clinical failure, and early revision arthroplasty. Improved implant design and/or surgical indications may improve implant performance, thereby reducing the incidence of implant damage and wear, and result in improved clinical outcomes.

Infected nonunion proximal humerus fracture: two-stage oncologic approach solution with reverse total shoulder reconstruction

Introduction: Infected non-union of proximal humerus after fixation is devastating consequence and remains challenging. Methods: The staged oncologic approach consists of wide resection and reconstruction ensures remissions of the infection. Results: We report a case of two-stage oncologic approach in a patient with infected non-union proximal humerus after fixation. In the first stage we have performed a wide resection and antibiotic cement spacer insertion. After complete eradication of infection, subsequent reconstruction of the shoulder using reverse shoulder replacement with modular humeral stem had been performed on purpose of restoring the acceptable joint functions. Conclusions: Reconstruction of the infected non-union of the proximal humerus is a challenging task, costly procedure that requires the use of the sophisticated limb reconstruction system. Staged approach incorporating the use oncologic wide resection to eradicate the infection with subsequent bony reconstruction ensure the optimum restoration of upper limb functions.

Cement technique correlates with tuberosity healing in hemiarthroplasty for proximal humeral fracture

Tuberosity healing correlates with clinical outcomes after hemiarthroplasty for 4-part proximal humeral fractures (4PHFs). We seek to examine variables that affect tuberosity healing. This was a retrospective comparative study. At 1 year postoperatively, patients who underwent hemiarthroplasty for 4PHFs were divided into 2 groups: those with anatomically healed tuberosities and those with tuberosity nonunion. The primary variables included time between injury and surgery, prosthesis fenestration, cement mantle classification, and both vertical and horizontal tuberosity reduction. Secondary demographic factors included age, gender, osteoporosis status, diabetes status, and smoking status. There were 84 individuals who met the inclusion criteria: 37 (44%) had anatomically healed tuberosities, and 47 (56%) did not. Individuals with anatomic healing had cement near or under the tuberosities 32% of the time, whereas individuals with nonunion or resorption had cement near the tuberosities 66% of the time (P = .002). There was no association between tuberosity healing and fenestration of the humeral stem (P = .84). Anatomic reduction between tuberosities was associated with healing (P <.001), whereas greater tuberosity-to-head height was not (P = .25). There were no significant differences in age, osteoporosis status, smoking status, diabetes status, or time to surgery between groups. Male patients had nearly double the rate of healing (P = .03). The classification and effect of cement technique on tuberosity healing have not previously been described. We suggest limiting cementation to a minimum of 5 mm below the level of the tuberosity fracture. The ideal candidate for hemiarthroplasty for a 4PHF is a male patient with anatomic tuberosity reduction and limited use of cement.

Comparative study of total shoulder arthroplasty versus total shoulder surface replacement for glenohumeral osteoarthritis with minimum 2-year follow-up

Compared with total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), total shoulder surface replacement (TSSR) may offer the advantage of preservation of bone stock and shorter surgical time, possibly at the expense of glenoid component positioning and increasing lateral glenohumeral offset. We hypothesized that in patients treated for osteoarthritis with a sufficient rotator cuff, TSA and TSSR patients have comparable functional outcome, glenoid component version, and lateral glenohumeral offset. We conducted a retrospective cohort study with a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. Patients in the TSA and TSSR groups received a cemented, curved, keeled, all-poly glenoid component. A cemented anatomical humeral stem was used in TSA. TSSR involved a humeral surface replacement (all components from Tornier Inc., St Ismier, France). Patients were assessed for functional outcome. Radiographs were assessed for radiolucent lines. Glenoid component position and lateral glenohumeral offset were assessed using computed tomography images. After 29 and 34 months of mean follow-up, respectively, TSA (n = 29) and TSSR (n = 20) groups showed similar median adjusted Constant Scores (84% vs. 88%), Oxford Shoulder Scores (44 vs. 44), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores (22 vs. 15), and Dutch Simple Shoulder Test scores (10 vs. 11). Glenoid components showed similar radiolucent line counts (median, 0 vs. 0), similar anteversion angles (mean, 0° vs. 2°), and similar preoperative to postoperative increases in lateral glenohumeral offset (mean, 4 vs. 5 mm). One intraoperative glenoid fracture occurred in the TSSR group. Short-term functional and radiographic outcomes were comparable for TSA and TSSR.

Clinical and radiologic outcomes of the second-generation Trabecular Metal™ glenoid for total shoulder replacements after 2-6years follow-up.

A porous tantalum glenoid component for total shoulder replacements was introduced in 2003 to promote biologic ingrowth. However, reports of component failure prompted design modifications. The purpose of this study is to present the largest series to date, of TSR with the second-generation Trabecular Metal™ glenoid component. A radiologic and clinical evaluation of the second-generation TM glenoid was conducted in consecutive cases of 76 shoulders (66 patients) with a mean follow-up of 43.2months (range 24-72months). Pre-operative VAS score, patient self-assessed ASES score, active shoulder range of motion, and radiologic assessment were recorded. Patients were recalled for latest follow-up clinical and radiologic evaluation. On latest follow-up, the mean VAS scores (pre-op: 6.4-latest: 0.9) and ASES scores (pre-op: 36.9-latest: 88.5) improved. Active range of motion improved in all planes. There was no report of glenoid component migration, loosening, or humeral stem subsidence. The incidence of non-progressive radiolucency in the glenoid was 6.6% (Franklin 1: 3 cases, Franklin 2: 2 cases). Post-operative complications involved dislocation (n=2) which were reduced in ED, post-operative stiffness (n=1), transient axillary nerve neuropraxia (n=1), and supraspinatus tear which underwent arthroscopic repair at 16months post-op. There were no revision surgeries for implant loosening nor glenoid component fracture at the peg-base plate junction. The modifications established in the second-generation TM glenoid resulted to improve early to mid-term survivorship and clinical outcomes in TSR, with promise of long-term implant stability through bony ingrowth. Level IV, case series, treatment study.

Primary shoulder arthroplasty using a custom-made hip-inspired implant for the treatment of advanced glenohumeral arthritis in the presence of severe glenoid bone loss

Total shoulder arthroplasty for end-stage glenohumeral arthritis with severe glenoid bone loss poses a unique challenge for shoulder surgeons. Current surgical solutions are limited and associated with high complication rates. We hypothesized that a custom-made computer-aided design-computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) total shoulder replacement (TSR; Stanmore Implants Worldwide, Elstree, UK) resembling a total hip prosthesis could offer a reliable alternative for this challenging subset of patients. Thirty-seven patients with rotator cuff-deficient end-stage glenohumeral arthritis and severe glenoid bone loss (assessed as not amenable to treatment with standard anatomic or reverse total shoulder implants) were treated with the CAD-CAM TSR between 2006 and 2013. Clinical data were collected prospectively and analyzed at a mean follow-up of 5 years. Postoperatively, the pain level with activity decreased from 9.2 ± 1.7 to 2.4 ± 2.9 (P < .001). The Oxford Shoulder Score improved from 11 ± 8 points to 27 ± 11 points (P < .001), and the Subjective Shoulder Value (on a 0%-100% scale) improved from 23% ± 14% to 60% ± 24% (P < .001). Active forward elevation improved from 39° ± 23° to 63° ± 38° (P < .001), and external rotation improved from 6° ± 16° to 15° ± 17° (P = .001). Component revision was required in 6 of 37 patients (16%) (glenoid loosening in 1, humeral stem loosening in 3, periprosthetic fracture in 1, and prosthesis dislocation in 1). The CAD-CAM TSR offers a reliable alternative for the treatment of end-stage glenohumeral arthritis with severe glenoid deficiency not amenable to standard anatomic or reverse total shoulder implants, with maintenance of significant pain relief and clinical-functional improvement at 5-year postoperative follow-up.

Long-term analysis of revision reverse shoulder arthroplasty using cemented long stems

Revision of failed shoulder arthroplasty is often associated with poor results and a high rate of complications. Significant humeral bone loss after removal of long stems poses a considerable surgical challenge. Therefore, the aim of our study was the evaluation of the clinical and radiologic outcome of cemented long-stem humeral components in revision reverse shoulder arthroplasty with a minimum 5 years' follow-up. Between June 2001 and June 2009, revision reverse shoulder arthroplasty using long-stem cemented humeral components was performed in 124 patients. Mean age at time of surgery was 69.6 years (range, 42-87 years). Complete clinical and radiographic data were available in 50 patients at a mean of 7 years (range, 5-11.6 years). Postoperative radiographs were evaluated for radiolucent lines, implant migration, fracture, and glenoid notching. The mean Constant score improved from 11.1 points (range, 0-27 points) to 39.5 points (range, 14-73 points) at the latest follow-up. Progressive humeral radiolucency was present in 24 patients, including 6 patients demonstrating complete loosening or progressive distal migration of the humeral stem. We noted an overall of 12 additional complications in 8 patients, necessitating revision surgery in 16. The use of long-stem humeral components is a beneficial treatment in revision reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Nevertheless, the high percentage of patients with humeral loosening is concerning. Modular cementless revision stems that are adapted to the distal humeral medullary canal and additional distal screw and cable fixation might enhance durable distal fixation in case of advanced bone loss.

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty using a trabecular metal glenoid base plate: functional and radiological outcomes at two to five years.

We present the medium-term clinical results of a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with a trabecular metal glenoid base plate. We reviewed 125 consecutive primary reverse total shoulder arthroplasties (RTSA) implanted in 124 patients for rotator cuff arthropathy. There were 100 women and 24 men in the study group with a mean age of 76 years (58 to 89). The mean follow-up was 32 months (24 to 60). No patient was lost to follow-up. There were statistically significant improvements in the mean range of movement and Oxford Shoulder Score (p < 0.001). Kaplan-Meier survivorship at five years was 96.7% (95% confidence interval 91.5 to 98.7) with aseptic glenoid failure as the end point. Radiologically, 63 shoulders (50.4%) showed no evidence of notching, 51 (40.8%) had grade 1 notching, ten (8.0%) had grade 2 notching and one (0.8%) had grade 4 notching. Radiolucency around the glenoid base plate was found in one patient (0.8%) and around the humeral stem in five (4.0%). In all, three RTSA (2.4%) underwent revision surgery for aseptic mechanical failure of the glenoid within 11 months of surgery due to malseating of the glenosphere. The clinical results of this large independent single unit series are comparable to those from previous series of RTSA reported in the literature. A trabecular metal base plate is safe and effective in the medium-term. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:969-75.

The cemented humerus and non-cemented glenoid: The optimal hybrid solution for total shoulder arthroplasty

Hybrid fixation of total joint arthroplasty has been recognized as an accepted form of surgical approach in multiple joints. Principles of implant fixation should focus on durability and on providing secure long-term function. To date, there is no conclusive evidence that pressed-fit humeral stem fixation has an advantage over well-secured cemented humeral fixation. Although revision may require cement removal, a well-fixed bone—ingrowth implant may require slatting and osteotomy of the humerus. On the contrary, need for revision in arthroplasty due to inadequate implant fixation has almost universally revolved around the failure of cement fixation and loosening of the glenoid component. A case will be made based on 30 years of experience of a surgeon performing total shoulder arthroplasty using secure modern cement-fixation techniques of humeral components. More recently, over the past 10 years an extremely high rate of durable secure glenoid implant fixation has been achieved using press-fit tantalum porous anchorage of polyethylene glenoid components. This has resulted in no cases of loosening of glenoid fixation and only one case of glenoid component fracture with greater than 95% survivorship over a 10-year period. A combination of well-cemented humeral stem and trabecular metal anchorage of the glenoid has provided durable and long-lasting function in primary total shoulder arthroplasty.

A “convertible” humeral stem: A step forward in revision of total shoulder arthroplasty

Revision total shoulder arthroplasty is performed for a variety of patient symptoms, including shoulder pain, instability, or stiffness. The technical reasons found for revision include component loosening or malposition. Removing the humeral stem during revision can increase morbidity and blood loss during a procedure. The ability to use a universal stem that can be utilized in both anatomic and reverse shoulder arthroplasty can be beneficial in three main areas. For revision surgeries, cost is much less, OR time is decreased, and complications are much less frequent.