[Shoulder arthroplasty - Clinical results in 171 patients]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Arthroplasty
• Shoulder reconstruction

Background:

• Shoulder arthroplasty is an increasingly important procedure for managing shoulder joint pathology.
• Evaluating outcomes of shoulder replacement is essential for refining surgical techniques and patient selection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the outcomes of 181 shoulder arthroplasties (hemiarthroplasties and total shoulder replacements) performed on 171 patients.
• To identify factors influencing postoperative functional outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 181 shoulder arthroplasties (118 hemiarthroplasties, 63 total shoulder replacements) in 171 patients.
• Clinical and radiological assessments pre- and post-surgery, with an average follow-up of two years.
• Postoperative functional assessment using the Constant score.

Main Results:

• High patient satisfaction rates (46% very satisfied, 31% satisfied).
• Significant reduction in pain and improvement in active joint function observed.
• Average Constant score improved from 34.9 preoperatively to 65.2 postoperatively.
• Best outcomes were associated with treatment for avascular necrosis or fracture sequelae of the humeral head.
• Revision surgery was required in 8.8% of cases.

Conclusions:

• Shoulder arthroplasty demonstrates encouraging results, highlighting its growing significance.
• Preoperative factors like range of motion, prior surgeries, and rotator cuff status predict favorable outcomes.
• Successful shoulder arthroplasty relies on meticulous preoperative planning, precise anatomical reconstruction, and comprehensive rehabilitation.