Glenohumeral arthroplasty: indications and preoperative considerations

The indications for glenohumeral arthroplasty are severe pain and restricted range of motion associated with radiographic evidence of advanced glenohumeral arthritis. Nonsurgical management consisting of rest, physical therapy, and antiinflammatory medication should be tried before considering surgical management. It is important that each patient be evaluated on the basis of the clinical disease and radiographic characteristics of the underlying diagnosis. Preoperative considerations should include a careful assessment of bone quality and quantity and associated deformity. Evaluation of the soft tissues, particularly the rotator cuff and deltoid muscles, is essential because the success of total shoulder arthroplasty depends greatly on the integrity of these structures. Associated upper and lower extremity degenerative arthritis should be evaluated and carefully considered, particularly with respect to the timing of surgical management. Careful consideration of these factors is invaluable in obtaining successful outcomes of total shoulder arthroplasty.