Abstract
Background
The use of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty considerably increased since first introduced by Paul Grammont in the late 1980s. Over the past few years, results from several mid- and long-term clinical studies have demonstrated good functional outcomes and pain relief. However, several complications, especially inferior glenoid notching, and high revision rates were reported in the literature. Improvements in prosthesis design should contribute to a lower complication rate and lesser amount of glenoid erosion. Few studies have reported the clinical outcome andcomplications of Anatomical Shoulder Inverse/ Reverse Prosthesis. This study documents 2- and 6-year clinical and radiological results following reversed shoulder arthroplasty using this novel prosthesis.
Methods
We report the results for sixty-eight consecutive patients (seventy shoulders) with cuff tear arthropathy (CTA) treated with Anatomical Shoulder Inverse/Reverse Prosthesis between 2006 and 2008. Two groups were defined: (A) primary treatment and (B) revision. Clinical evaluation tools comprised Constant-Murley score (CS), range of motion, and a visual analog scale to assess pain. Radiographs (anteroposterior view in neutral position) were evaluated for notching and radiolucent lines. Any complications were recorded.
Results
In total, 66 shoulders (94%) with a mean follow-up of 30.0 months were initially analysed. CS increased from preoperatively 20.2 to postoperatively 53.6 points. Inferior scapular notching was identified in 58% of patients, primarily grade 1 and 2 (low-graded). 16% of patients experienced a complication, including instability, infection or periprosthetic fracture. 58 patients (83%) were re-evaluated 69.0 months after implantation. CS decreased to 50.2 points (n.s.). 16 patients (23%) had postoperative complication at final follow-up. We observed progressive radiographic changes in 75% and an increased frequency of large notches (grade 3 and 4). No significant difference regarding clinical outcome was detected between group A and B after both 2 and 6 years.
Conclusion
Total shoulder arthroplasty with the Anatomical Shoulder Inverse/Reverse Prosthesis is a reliable treatment option in patients with cuff tear arthropathy. Primary and revision arthropathies result in similar improvements in range of motion and pain. Constant-Murley score and radiographic changes deteriorated with time. Inferior scapular notching appeared rapidly after implantation. A change of prosthesis design and prosthetic overhang intraoperatively seems to be the most effective way to prevent scapular conflict. The complication rate in our series is equally to previously reported rates.
