[Rheumatoid orthopedics and endoprosthetics of the shoulder joint]

The first part of the present article gives a comprehensive description of the pathology, diagnostics and forms of therapy of rheumatically impaired shoulder joints. Improved operative methods and methods such as bursectomy, synovectomy, reconstructive soft-tissue management and joint replacement depending on the stage of impediment have enhanced the use of surgery in the treatment of rheumatic shoulder joints. The second part gives a critical evaluation of indications, methods and results of modern shoulder joint replacement. A survey of written publications on the results of hemi- and total endoprostheses on the one hand, our own clinical experiences on the other, have shown that the use of modular hemiendoprostheses produces clinically excellent results with no problems of loosening of the glenoid part.