Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 19, 2026
Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Published on: July 5, 2011
Shoulder arthroplasty options in young (<50 years old) patients: review of current concepts
Michael H Johnson1, E Scott Paxton1, Andrew Green1
1Division of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
Background:
Prosthetic shoulder arthroplasty provides excellent pain relief and functional restoration for patients with glenohumeral arthritis, but concerns of survivorship have limited its use in younger patients.
Discussion:
Despite general reports of high long-term survivorship, implant failure and functional deterioration after total shoulder arthroplasty are major concerns in the management of younger patients. In addition to having a longer life expectancy, younger patients also tend to be more active and can be expected to place greater demands on their shoulder arthroplasty.
Conclusion:
Alternative strategies have been developed and used for shoulder arthroplasty in younger patients. This manuscript reviews current concepts of shoulder arthroplasty in young patients.
