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Updated: Apr 8, 2026
Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Published on: July 5, 2011
[Posttraumatic arthritis of the glenohumeral joint. Joint-preserving therapy options]
M Petri1, R Meller, U J Spiegl
1Steadman Philippon Research Institute, 181 West Meadow Drive, Suite 1000, 81657, Vail, CO, USA, mpetri@sprivail.org.
Background:
The management of glenohumeral osteoarthritis in younger patients with high activity levels remains a challenge to orthopedic surgeons. The clinical results of joint replacement surgery are commonly unsatisfactory in this particular cohort with the associated problem of limited longevity of the implant.
Objectives:
This paper reviews the indications, techniques and outcomes of joint-preserving arthroscopic surgery for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the shoulder.
Methods:
A selective literature search was performed and personal surgical experiences are reported.
Results:
Besides significant pain reduction, improved range of motion and increased patient satisfaction, arthroscopic surgery can delay the need for total shoulder arthroplasty. A comprehensive approach that addresses all concomitant pathologies of the shoulder joint is of particular importance. Recent studies have shown that a glenohumeral joint space of less than 2 mm predicts significantly poorer results with arthroscopic therapy.
Conclusion:
Arthroscopic procedures are a good option to treat young, active patients with osteoarthritis of the shoulder. Patient selection and setting a consensus for appropriate preoperative expectations are of particular relevance.
