Abstract
The infected shoulder arthroplasty is a devastating complication that can be very difficult to diagnose and treat. This presentation will compare the data on two-stage and single-stage exchange arthroplasty as pertains to functional outcomes and efficacy of eradication of the infection. Traditionally, the two-stage exchange arthroplasty has been the gold standard in the United States for the treatment of infected total shoulder replacements. In Europe, the trend seems to be moving towards a single-stage exchange with results that are reportedly comparable for eradication of infection to those of two-stage exchange although with seemingly better results for shoulder function. The surgeon's clinical experience with both techniques will be highlighted. A lively debate of the virtues and pitfalls of both approaches is the goal.
