Abstract
The clinical and radiographic results of 172 patients with inflammatory arthropathies, mostly rheumatoid arthritis, were evaluated regarding to soft tissue problems, the type of destruction, and radiographic findings.
The frequency of early complications (n=11) and revisions (n=25) reflects the high morbidity of rheumatoid patients. Patient rated themselves as satisfied in 90%. The preoperative status of 26/100 points (34% adjusted score) improved to 56 points (73% adjusted score).
The effect of joint replacement on muscle strength (5/25 points) and active mobility (25/40 points) was limited because of the high frequency of rotator cuff tears and muscle atrophy. The active elevation improved from preoperatively 79° to 120° (gain 41+/−4°) on average. The radiographic analysis of the cemented stems revealed in three cases (2%) a migration and radiolucency lines in 24 cases (15%). The glenoid components showed in 70% radiolucency lines, which were progressive in 53%. In 5% a migration could be observed.
