[Experiences with the use of shoulder joint endoprosthesis]

Total shoulder replacement has been successful as treatment for patients with irreparably damaged and painful glenohumeral joints, though improvement of joint motion is limited. Our experiences with 101 alloplastic operations on the human shoulder are reported for further design and construction of total shoulder joint prostheses. The type of prosthesis chosen depends on the degree of joint damage. A dorsal approach is recommended, carefully preserving or restoring function of the musculo-tendinous cuff mechanism.