Long-term results of uncemented humeral components in shoulder arthroplasty

The purpose of this study was to determine the long-term results of uncemented humeral components in shoulder arthroplasty. We reviewed 37 shoulder arthroplasties with press-fit humeral components with a mean follow-up of 9.2 years (range, 5.8-13.6 years). The mean Constant score was 57 points (range, 16-95 points), and the results in 70% of the patients remained satisfactory. No complications or revisions occurred related to the uncemented humeral component. On radiographic analysis, none of the humeral components showed subsidence. Of the components, 22 (59%) showed radiolucency, 12 (32%) had endosteal erosion, and 5 (14%) had tilted. Of the humeral components, 7 (19%) were judged to be at risk for loosening. The prevalence of an at-risk humeral component was not associated with increasing pain or deteriorating function. This study shows favorable results with the use of uncemented humeral components in shoulder arthroplasty, with a low prevalence of clinical loosening at long-term follow-up.