Case reports: Shoulder arthroplasty in transplant recipients: a report of five cases

The fate of shoulder arthroplasties in transplant recipients is unknown but potential concerns include the immunocompromised state and inferior bone quality of these patients. We retrospectively reviewed five shoulder arthroplasties performed from January 1, 1985 to December 31, 2001 in four patients who previously had transplant surgery. All patients were followed up for a minimum of 2 years (mean, 5.4 years). The results were graded according to a modified Neer result rating system. There were four excellent results and one satisfactory result. There were no intraoperative complications, infections, or revisions. In this limited group of patients the results of shoulder arthroplasty after transplantation were satisfactory.