Evaluation of the rheumatoid shoulder function after hemiarthroplasty and arthrodesis

Rheumatoid arthritis frequently involves the shoulder. In the advanced stages of the disease the preferred treatment has been either arthroplasty or arthrodesis. The functional results of five shoulder arthrodeses have been compared with five hemiarthroplasties. The period of postoperative immobilization was shorter for hemiarthroplasty; both procedures relieved pain, but personal hygiene was easier to manage after hemiarthroplasty. Shoulder arthrodesis with a fixed internal rotation greater than 40 degrees makes it impossible to reach the face and the optimal position would seem to be 20-30 degrees of abduction. 20-30 degrees flexion and 20-30 degrees internal rotation.