Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty has been widely used in the treatment of rotator cuff arthropathy. Follow-up has historically focused on the glenoid component because of problems with fixation and scapular notching leading to functional failure. Fixation of the humeral component has evolved from cemented to mostly uncemented with diaphyseal of metaphyseal press-fit stems. Bony changes around the stem reflect the bone-implant interface; research to evaluate and interpret these changes is insufficient at this moment. Since several patients have shown cortical thinning of the proximal lateral humeral cortex during follow-up, further research is recommended to evaluate the cause and clinical impact of these radiographic changes. The goal of this study is to collect long-term radiographic and clinical data in order to facilitate the identification of risk factors.
Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty has been widely used in the treatment of rotator cuff arthropathy. Follow-up has historically focused on the glenoid component because of problems with fixation and scapular notching leading to functional failure. Fixation of the humeral component has evolved from cemented to mostly uncemented with diaphyseal of metaphyseal press-fit stems. Bony changes around the stem reflect the bone-implant interface; research to evaluate and interpret these changes is insufficient at this moment. Since several patients have shown cortical thinning of the proximal lateral humeral cortex during follow-up, further research is recommended to evaluate the cause and clinical impact of these radiographic changes. The goal of this study is to collect long-term radiographic and clinical data in order to facilitate the identification of risk factors.