Single-stage bilateral total shoulder arthroplasty: a preliminary study.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Severe bilateral glenohumeral joint destruction presents a significant challenge for patients.
• Total shoulder replacement is a common treatment for advanced shoulder arthritis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the clinical outcomes of single-stage versus two-stage bilateral total shoulder replacement.
• To evaluate functional recovery, pain reduction, strength, and complication rates.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective comparison of six patients undergoing single-stage bilateral total shoulder replacement.
• Comparison with eight patients undergoing two-stage bilateral total shoulder replacement (mean interval 18 months).
• Assessment of subjective shoulder value, Constant score, range of motion, strength, and complication rates.

Main Results:

• Both groups showed significant improvements in function, pain, and strength.
• The single-stage group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in subjective shoulder value, relative Constant score, active external rotation, and strength.
• Active elevation, abduction, and overall function improved significantly more in the single-stage group.
• The single-stage group experienced substantially shorter hospitalisation and time off work per shoulder.
• The overall complication rate was lower in the single-stage group.

Conclusions:

• Single-stage bilateral total shoulder replacement yields superior clinical results compared to staged replacement.
• This approach offers shorter hospitalisation and rehabilitation periods without increased complications.
• Single-stage bilateral total shoulder replacement is a safe and effective option for severe bilateral glenohumeral joint destruction.