Saturday, April 15, 2017

15 years after anatomic total shoulder replacement

The long term outcomes of total shoulder replacement are known. The industry is currently developing hybrid glenoid components, however the all polyethylene glenoid component remains the gold standard in terms of longevity. Metal backed glenoid components have failed to solve the problem of radiolucent lines seen more frequently 5 years after total shoulder replacement. The majority of patients with such a radiographic finding have no clinical adverse event. The following radiographs are 15 years after cemented anatomic total shoulder replacement. The rotator cuff has not failed and the outcome was excellent with active forward elevation to 160 degrees and no pain. There is some polyethylene wear which is expected.