[Arthroplastic resection of the shoulder. Results and indications apropos of 35 cases]

The only aim of this retrospective study of 35 patients who had undergone resection of shoulder is to report overall results of this well established operation. Although no result could be rated as excellent, those in one half of the patients were evaluated as good and in one quarter as acceptable. The shoulder can be used in two-thirds of cases and of major importance is that pain is absent in two-thirds and tolerable in 80% of cases. In addition to cases of septic arthritis and poorly tolerated recurrent luxations, this operation is indicated for elderly patients with a fracture-luxation or compound fracture of upper end of humerus. However, the operation requires very strict conditions and re-attachment of the cap of rotator muscles. Resection of shoulder should therefore conserve a place in the therapeutic arsenal of shoulder disorders.