Current peri-operative imaging concepts surrounding shoulder arthroplasty.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Radiology
• Degenerative Joint Disease

Background:

• Glenohumeral osteoarthritis is a common cause of shoulder pain and disability.
• End-stage disease requires interventions, including surgery.
• Accurate diagnosis and management are essential for patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review key imaging findings in glenohumeral osteoarthritis.
• To highlight imaging's role in pre-operative decision-making.
• To discuss the recognition of post-operative complications.

Main Methods:

• Review of imaging modalities including plain radiographs, CT, and MRI.
• Correlation of imaging findings with surgical options (hemiarthroplasty, anatomic TSA, reverse TSA).
• Identification of critical pre-operative factors: rotator cuff integrity and glenoid erosion.

Main Results:

• Pre-operative imaging guides surgical approach for glenohumeral osteoarthritis.
• Post-operative imaging is vital for detecting prosthetic loosening, rotator cuff tears, and fractures.
• Specific attention to subscapularis integrity is noted.

Conclusions:

• Imaging is indispensable for both pre- and post-operative management of glenohumeral osteoarthritis.
• Radiographic and advanced imaging findings directly influence treatment strategies.
• Early recognition of imaging abnormalities improves patient care and outcomes.