Cuff tear arthropathy represents a challenging problem to the shoulder arthoplasty surgeon. Poor results of conventional total shoulder arthroplasty in cuff deficient shoulders due to glenoid component loosening have meant hemiarthroplasty has been the traditional preferred option. Recently reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has gained increasing popularity due to a clinical perception of an improved functional outcome. This is despite the lack of comparative data, particularly in relation to modern hemiarthroplasty prostheses. The aim of this study was to compare the early functional results of Hemiarthroplasty versus RSA in the management of cuff-tear arthropathy. Patients were identified from the New Zealand National Joint Registry and matched for age, sex, and American Society of Anesthesiologists scores.102 primary hemiarthroplasties performed for cuff tear arthropathy were compared with 102 RSAs performed for the same diagnosis. Oxford shoulder scores (OSS) were collected prospectively at 6 months and five years post operatively together with mortality and revision rates.Background
Material and Methods