BACKGROUND To evaluate the clinical outcome of revision of primary shoulder replacement by using reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA). METHODS Seven patients underwent revision RTSA with a mean follow-up of 22.1 months (range, 12 to 54 months). Their mean age at the time of operation was 75.5 years (range, 70 to 80 years). Assessments were performed on the preoperative and postoperative...

Current reverse total shoulder arthroplasty prosthesis designs do not permit offset of the humerus in the sagittal plane. Posteriorly shifting the humerus has the theoretical benefit of lengthening the infraspinatus and teres minor muscles and their external rotation moment arms, thereby improving the tension and efficiency of each external rotator and subsequently requiring each muscle to prod...

BACKGROUND Massive rotator cuff tears in active patients with minimal glenohumeral arthritis remain a particular challenge for the treating surgeon. METHODS A selective literature search was performed and personal surgical experiences are reported. RESULTS For patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears, a reverse shoulder arthroplasty or a tendon transfer are often performed. However, bot...

Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears have been troublesome entities to treat, especially in younger patients. Few good options exist, leaving most patients in recent years receiving a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty carries serious risks, a limited lifespan, and no other viable options should it fail. Recent biomechanical studies have shown that the superior...

We have previously described the short-term outcome of the use of reverse shoulder arthroplasty in the treatment of acute complex proximal humeral fractures in the elderly. We now report the clinical and radiological outcome of 36 fractures at a mean of 6.6 years (1 to 16). Previously, at a mean follow-up of 6 years (1 to 12) the mean Constant score was 58.5; this was reduced to 53 points with ...