Shoulder arthroplasty in patients younger than 50 years: minimum 20-year follow-up

Little information is available on the long-term outcome of shoulder arthroplasty in young patients. The purpose of this study was to report the results, complications, and revision rate of total shoulder arthroplasties (TSAs) in patients younger than 50 years at a minimum 20-year follow-up.

Between 1976 and 1985, a single surgeon performed 78 Neer hemiarthroplasties (HAs) and 36 Neer TSAs in patients < 50 years. Fifty-six HAs and 19 TSAs with a minimum 20-year follow-up, or follow-up until reoperation, were analyzed for clinical, radiographic and survivorship outcomes.

Both HA and TSA showed significant improvements in pain scores (P < .001), abduction (P < .01), and external rotation (P = .02). Eighty-one percent of shoulders were rated much better or better than preoperatively. Modified Neer ratings were similar between groups (P = .41). Unsatisfactory ratings in HA were due to reoperations in 25 (glenoid arthrosis in 16) and limited motion, pain, or dissatisfaction in 11. Unsatisfactory ratings in TSA were due to reoperations in 6 (component loosening in 4) and limited motion in 5. Estimated 20-year survival was 75.6% (confidence interval, 65.9-86.5) for HAs and 83.2% (confidence interval, 70.5-97.8) for TSAs.

At long-term follow-up, both HA and TSA continue to provide lasting pain relief and improved range of motion. However, there are a large number of unsatisfactory Neer ratings. Whereas both groups have survivorship in excess of 75% at 20 years, surgeons should remain cautious in performing shoulder arthroplasty in the young patient.