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Revision of a Stemless Anatomic Implant into a Stemless Reverse Implant
Christian Schoch1, Michael Dittrich1, Leander Ambros1
1St. Vinzenz Klinik Pfronten, Department for Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, Kirchweg 15, 87459 Pfronten, Germany.
Case Reports in Orthopedics
|January 28, 2021
Summary
This case report demonstrates the successful revision of a stemless anatomic shoulder implant to a stemless reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, preserving the benefits of stemless designs in revision surgery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Arthroplasty
- Shoulder reconstruction
Background:
- Stemless anatomic implants are increasingly used for shoulder osteoarthritis.
- Revision to a stemmed reverse total shoulder arthroplasty often forfeits stemless benefits.
- Limited options exist for stemless reverse implants, particularly in revision cases.
Observation:
- A 61-year-old male with a stemless anatomic implant (TESS) presented with pain and reduced range of motion.
- Radiographs showed a stable implant with glenoid protrusion; ultrasound revealed rotator cuff insufficiency.
- Revision to a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty was indicated.
Findings:
- The stable stemless anatomic implant was explanted.
- An "off-label" revision to a stemless reverse implant (LIMA SMR) was performed with minimal bone loss.
- Two-year follow-up showed good clinical and radiological outcomes.
Implications:
- This case suggests that revising a stemless anatomic implant to a stemless reverse implant is feasible.
- It highlights the potential to maintain stemless implant advantages in revision shoulder arthroplasty.
- Adherence to implantation guidelines is crucial for successful stemless reverse revision.

