Abstract
Modern total shoulder arthroplasty seeks to produce a construct that reproduces the kinematics and stability of the native glenohumeral joint. The latest 4th generation implants are modular, adaptable, and capable of use as either anatomic or reverse shoulder arthroplasty components. During surgery, these implants are “universal”; post-operatively, they are “convertible”.
Recent work has demonstrated that reverse shoulder arthroplasty components may indeed be the emerging standard of care for most (if not all) shoulder arthroplasty indications.
As this new frontier develops, the use of a convertible/universal implant creates the flexibility to individually choose the best surgical option for each patient.
