Surgical Treatment Options for Glenohumeral Arthritis in Young Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Long-term (minimum 10 years) survival and outcomes of pyrocarbon interposition shoulder arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

There are some major controversies surrounding the use and longevity of pyrocarbon interposition shoulder arthroplasty (PISA). The objective of this study was to investigate the long-term survival and outcomes (minimum 10-year) following PISA for osteoarthritis (OA) in young and active patients.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review of prospectively collected data of patients who underwent PISA (InSpyre; Tornier-Stryker) for OA between 2009 and 2012. Arthroplasty survival was known for 71 patients followed longitudinally for a minimum of 10 years. The clinical and radiologic outcomes were assessed in 62 patients (62 shoulders) reviewed with radiographs. The mean age at surgery was 60 years (range, 23-72 years), and 31 shoulders (50%) underwent prior surgery before PISA. The diagnosis was primary osteoarthritis (POA = 29), post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA = 23), and postinstability osterarthritis (PIOA = 10). Clinical failure was defined as repeat surgical intervention involving prosthesis revision. Clinical outcomes were assessed with the Constant score (CS) and Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV). The mean duration of follow-up was 11 ± 0.6 years (range, 10-14 years).

RESULTS

Overall, the survival rate was 90% (95% confidence interval [CI] 82.8-96.8) at 5 years and 87% (95% CI 79-94.8) at a 10-year follow-up. Survival was 100% in PTOA (type 1 fracture sequelae) and in PIOA as well as 95% in primary OA with type A glenoid. Revision surgery was significantly higher in biconcave (type B2) glenoid (44%) compared with concentric (type A) glenoid (2%), respectively (P = .002). Among the 7 patients who were revised to reverse shoulder arthroplasty, 5 had painful glenoid erosion and 2 had bipolar (glenoid and humeral) erosion with thinning and finally fracture of the greater tuberosity. Two shoulders with glenohumeral erosion were associated with secondary rotator cuff tears (1 supraspinatus and 1 subscapularis tear). The mean time to revision and revision was 4 ± 1.7 years. Glenoid wear was more often superior (81%) than central (19%), P < .001. For those shoulders not revised, the mean CS and SSV significantly increased from 39 ± 14 to 70 ± 14 points and 34% ± 15% to 75% ± 17%, respectively (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

PISA is an efficient and durable surgical procedure for the treatment of young and active patients with post-traumatic OA, postinstability OA, and primary OA with concentric (type A) glenoid erosion, but not for those with biconcave (type B2) glenoid. Biconcave (type B2) glenoid and subscapularis tear or insufficiency are risk factors for failure and revision.

Pharmacologic interventions for primary glenohumeral osteoarthritis

ABSTRACT

Primary glenohumeral osteoarthritis is a multifactorial condition with a complex cause that affects patients across different age groups, impairing physiologic and psychologic well-being, and substantially reducing patient quality of life and overall productivity. To effectively manage this condition, healthcare providers need to be well informed about treatment guidelines, as well as the available therapeutic options and the evidence supporting their use. Nonsurgical interventions should be regarded as the primary treatment option, particularly for patients in the initial phases of this condition. No conclusive guidelines exist for treating young and active patients, and the literature lacks high-quality data to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and long-term consequences of several interventions, regardless of patient characteristics and expectations.

Glenohumeral osteoarthritis: what the surgeon needs from the radiologist

Glenohumeral osteoarthritis (GHOA) is a widely prevalent disease with increasing frequency due to population aging. Both clinical manifestations and radiography play key roles in the initial diagnosis, staging, and management decisions. Radiographic disease progression evaluation is performed using validated staging systems, such as Kellgren and Lawrence, Samilson, and Hamada. For young patients with mild to moderate GHOA and failed conservative treatment, arthroscopic preservation surgery (APS) is usually considered. Older patients and those with severe GHOA benefit from different types of arthroplasties. Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is essential for APS surgical planning, as it maps repairable labral, cartilage, and rotator cuff lesions. For arthroplasty planning, the status of glenoid cartilage and intactness of rotator cuff as well as glenoid morphology represent key factors guiding the decision regarding the most suitable hardware design, whether resurfacing, partial, total, or reverse joint replacement. Pre-surgical MRI or alternatively computed tomography arthrogram is employed to evaluate the cartilage and rotator cuff. Finally, three-dimensional computed tomography (3D CT) is indicated to optimally assess the glenoid morphology (to determine Walch classification, version, inclination, and bone loss) and analyze the necessity for glenoid osteotomy or graft augmentation to correct the glenoid structural abnormalities for future success and longevity of the shoulder implants or chosen constructs. Understanding the purpose of each imaging and treatment modality allows more efficient image interpretation. This article reviews the above concepts and details what a surgeon needs from a radiologist and could benefit from accurate reporting of preoperative imaging studies.

Pyrolytic carbon head shoulder arthroplasty: CT scan glenoid bone modeling assessment and clinical results at 3-year follow-up

Background

The aim of this study is to report the radiological glenoid modifications and clinical outcomes at 3 years mean follow-up of hemi shoulder arthroplasty (HA) with pyrocarbon (PYC) humeral head. Our hypothesis was that the PYC implants would provide good outcomes without major glenoid erosion. Additionally, we hypothesized that HA-PYC allowed for remodeling of the bone.

Methods

Patients underwent HA with PyC humeral head for treatment of primary or secondary osteoarthritis, excluding post-traumatic cases. All patients had a Constant Score assessed preoperatively and at the last follow-up. Preoperative and postoperative computed tomography scans at the last follow-up were performed to achieve 3-dimensional reconstructions of the scapulae. Deformities of the glenoid surface were analyzed as a distance differential between postoperative and preoperative to investigate potential bone remodeling vs. glenoid erosion. The subluxation index (SLI) was measured.

Results

We included 41 patients implanted with a HA-PYC. Average age at the time of implant was 63.8 (40 to 79 years). All patients were followed for ≥2 years with an average follow-up of 36.3 months (24 to 60 months). Constant Scores increased from 34 at baseline to 80 at the last follow-up points on average (P < .01). Return to work rate was 100% and 96% had resumed their physical activity. Ten (77%) of the 13 patients with posterior head subluxation had normalized their SLI. Furthermore, no significant differences were detected between the individuals having corrected their posterior subluxation and the others (preoperative SLI between 0.45 and 0.55). Glenoid wear is less than 0.6 mm at 3 years mean follow-up, ie, 5 times less than metallic implants. A tendency to recenter the head in the anteroposterior plane was found in type B glenoid, without increased erosion of the glenoid, with very good clinical results. We did not find any difference according to age or glenoid type for clinical and radiological results.

Conclusion

HA-PYCs give, in the short term, excellent clinical results in terms of pain and function. The development of a precise and objective measurement method has made it possible to demonstrate that the glenoid surface is the site of modifications that may be part of bone remodeling or progression of the osteoarthritis disease.

Osteoarthritis in the Upper Extremity

Osteoarthritis is a common cause of morbidity in an increasingly aging population. Although the weight-bearing joints of the leg and foot are frequently affected by osteoarthritis, degenerative changes in the joints of the upper extremity are likewise common and can be both particularly debilitating for affected individuals and uniquely challenging for the health care providers managing it. The present review seeks to overview the epidemiology, anatomy, diagnosis, and management of osteoarthritis in the joints of the shoulder, elbow, and hand with the intent of providing accessible and relevant information to the range of medical professionals involved in patient care.

Comparison of Humeral-Head Replacement with Glenoid-Reaming Arthroplasty (Ream and Run) Versus Anatomic Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Matched-Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Glenoid component failure is a major concern after anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (aTSA). Ream and run (RnR) is an alternative procedure that may avoid glenoid-related complications. The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes of RnR versus aTSA in younger patients with advanced glenohumeral osteoarthritis.

METHODS

This was a retrospective matched-cohort study of 110 patients who underwent aTSA and 57 patients who underwent RnR; patients were <66 years of age and had a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. Propensity matching was performed using 21 preoperative variables. Pre- and postoperative patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL) scores, satisfaction with outcome, and revision data were analyzed. Mixed-effects models examined the association of preoperative variables with outcomes.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine patient pairs were matched. All patients were male, with a mean age of 58.6 ± 7.3 years and a mean follow-up 4.4 ± 2.3 years. The aTSA cohort had better final Simple Shoulder Test (SST) and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores. However, in the mixed-effects model analysis, arthroplasty type was not associated with outcome. At 2 years postoperatively, a significantly greater percentage of aTSA patients achieved the substantial clinical benefit (SCB) for the ASES (100% versus 79.2%; p = 0.01) and the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) (89.7% versus 75%; p = 0.02) for the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain. At >5-year follow-up, there were no significant differences between the cohorts in the percentage who achieved the MCID, SCB, or patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) for the ASES, SST, and VAS for pain. Three patients underwent revision arthroplasty for pain after RnR, at a mean of 1.9 ± 1.7 years. Two patients underwent revision arthroplasty for glenoid loosening at 9.2 and 14 years after aTSA.

CONCLUSIONS

RnR and aTSA had comparable outcomes in most analyses. The greater early revision rate after RnR should focus attention on optimizing patient selection and postoperative management. Revision for glenoid loosening is a concern among younger and active patients. Longer-term study is needed to better understand the relative benefits and disadvantages of these procedures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Clinical results and 10-year survivorship of the Synthes Epoca resurfacing total shoulder arthroplasty

Aims

This prospective cohort study reports the 10-year survivorship, patient-reported outcome measures and radiographic outcomes of the first series of the Epoca resurfacing head total shoulder arthroplasty.

Methods

From July 2008 to July 2014, 59 Epoca resurfacing head total shoulder arthroplasties were implanted in 50 patients by a single surgeon. Minimum 4.8 year and maximum 11.3 year follow-up (mean: 7.9 years) was analysed using the latest available Oxford Shoulder Score. Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis was performed with revision as the end point. Most recent radiographs were reviewed for component radiolucency, osteolysis and proximal humeral migration.

Results

Two shoulders underwent revision (3.4%); one for pain with posterior subluxation following a fall, the other for pain with failure of the glenoid. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed 10-year survivorship of 98.2% (95% confidence intervals: 88.0%-99.8%). Mean Oxford Shoulder Score improved significantly compared to pre-operative values from 18.2 (5-45) to 46.6 (36-48) (p < 0.001). Fifty-three shoulders underwent radiographic analysis (89.8%). This revealed humeral radiolucency in two cases (3.8%), glenoid radiolucency in three cases (5.7%) and radiographic rotator cuff failure in eight cases (15.1%).

Conclusion

This prospective cohort study shows excellent 10-year survivorship, medium to long-term clinical and radiological results and for the Synthes Epoca resurfacing head total shoulder arthroplasty.

Evidence level

IV.

Shoulder Arthroplasty Options for Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis in Young and Active Patients (<60 Years Old): A Systematic Review

Aim

This study aims to describe the shoulder arthroplasty options for young and active patients (<60 years old) with glenohumeral osteoarthritis.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was conducted by searching on Pubmed database. Studies that reported outcomes of patients with glenohumeral arthritis, younger than 60 years, that underwent shoulder arthroplasty [(Hemiarthroplasty (HA), Hemiarthroplasty with biological resurfacing (HABR), Total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), Reversed total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA)] were included. Data include patient characteristics, surgical technique, range of motion, pain relief, outcome scores, functional improvement, complications, need for and time to revision.

Results

A total of 1591 shoulders met the inclusion criteria. Shoulder arthroplasty provided improvements in terms of ROM on the 3 plains, forward flexion (FF), abduction (Abd) and external rotation (ER), in different proportions for each type of implant. Patients submitted to RSA had lower preoperative FF (p = 0.011), and the highest improvement (Δ) in Abd, but the worst in terms of ER (vsTSA, p = 0.05). HA had better ER postoperative values (vsRSA p = 0.049). Pain scores improved in all groups but no difference between them (p = 0.642). TSA and RSA groups had the best CS Δ (p = 0.012). HA group had higher complication rates (21.7%), RSA (19.4%, p = 0.034) and TSA (19.4%, p = 0.629) groups the lowest, and HABR had the highest rate of revisions (34.5%).

Conclusions

HA had the highest rate of complications and HABR unacceptable rates of revision. These implants have been replaced by modern TSAs, with RSA reserved for complex cases. Surgeons should be aware of the common pitfalls of each option.

Impaired health-related quality of life, psychological distress, and productivity loss in younger people with persistent shoulder pain: a cross-sectional analysis

PURPOSE

To investigate wellbeing and work impacts in younger people with persistent shoulder pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

People aged 20-55 years with shoulder pain of >6 weeks' duration (excluding those with recent fracture or dislocation) were recruited from orthopaedic clinics at three major public hospitals. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and psychological distress were evaluated using the Assessment of Quality of Life (AQoL) and K10 instruments and compared to population norms. Shoulder-related absenteeism and presenteeism were quantified using the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI) Questionnaire.

RESULTS

Of the 81 participants (54% male), 69% had shoulder pain for over 12 months. Substantial HRQoL impairment was evident (mean reduction from population norms 0.33 AQoL units, 95% CI -0.38 to -0.27; minimal important difference 0.06 AQoL units). High or very high psychological distress was three times more prevalent among participants than the general population (relative risk 3.67, 95% CI 2.94 to 4.59). One-quarter of participants had ceased paid employment due to shoulder pain and 77% reported shoulder-related impairment at work.

CONCLUSIONS

The broader impacts of painful shoulder conditions on younger people extend well beyond pain and upper limb functional limitations. In particular, the work-related impacts should form a routine part of patient assessment and rehabilitation.Implications for rehabilitationPersistent shoulder pain in younger people (aged 20-55 years) is associated with substantially reduced health-related quality of life and greater psychological distress, compared to population norms, as well as work participation and productivity impacts.As rotator cuff conditions, shoulder capsule pathology, and glenohumeral instability are relatively common, our data suggest that persistent shoulder pain is likely to have a high community impact among people of working age.Information resources that people with painful shoulder conditions can share with their families, employers, and colleagues may assist others to better understand the broader impacts of these conditions.Work-related challenges associated with shoulder pain should be considered within routine clinical care, and may require referral to an occupational health clinician or vocational rehabilitation service.

Osteoarthritis of the shoulder in under-50 year-olds: A multicenter retrospective study of 273 shoulders by the French Society for Shoulder and Elbow (SOFEC)

INTRODUCTION

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the shoulder in under-50 year-olds is rare, and treatment is delicate. Shoulder replacement incurs frequent long-term risk of progression and a high revision rate, making it unsuited to young active patients. The aim of the present study was to determine the epidemiology of shoulder OA in under-50 year-olds and to assess the clinical results of the various treatment options.

HYPOTHESIS

The main study hypothesis was that well-conducted non-operative treatment can allow shoulder replacement to be postponed. The secondary hypothesis was that anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) is the treatment of choice when other options fail.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A multicenter retrospective study included primary (POA) and post-instability osteoarthritis (PIOA) in patients aged≤50years at symptom onset. Exclusion criteria comprised post-traumatic OA, rheumatoid arthritis and necrosis. Two hundred and sixty-six patients for 273 shoulders were included from 13 shoulder surgery centers: 2 types of non-operative treatment (28 by platelet-rich plasma [PRP] and 88 by viscosupplementation), 73 arthroscopies, and 150 implantations (62 humeral hemiarthroplasties [HA], comprising 10 hemi-metal, 24 hemi-pyrocarbon and 28 hemi-resurfacing; 77 anatomic total prostheses, and 11 reverse prostheses). Minimum follow-up was 12 months for non-operative treatment and 24 months for arthroplasty (some patients having both). Endpoints comprised Constant score, Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV) and number of complications/revision procedures.

RESULTS

Mean age at treatment was 43 years (range, 23-65 years), with 75% male predominance. Symptom onset was earlier in PIOA than in POA: 36 vs. 39 years (range, 20-50 years). PRP and viscosupplementation postponed implantation by a mean 3.5 years in 86% of cases, as did arthroscopy in 56%. ER1 restriction was the most negative factor. At 74 months' follow-up for HA and 95 months for TSA, mean Constant score was significantly lower for HA (56 vs. 67; p=0.004), with higher rates of complications (31% vs. 11%) and implant exchange (13% vs. 9%).

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION

PRP, viscosupplementation and arthroscopy allow implantation to be postponed until the shoulder becomes stiff and painful. In case of failure, TSA is the most effective solution in the medium-term.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV a; therapeutic study - investigating the results of treatment.

Salvage reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for failed anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty: a cohort analysis

BACKGROUND

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) as a revision procedure for failed anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) is increasing in incidence. The purpose of this study was to analyze the results of RTSA as a revision salvage procedure for failed TSA and identify factors that influenced those outcomes.

METHODS

All anatomic TSAs that were revised to RTSAs in adult patients, under the care of 2 senior surgeons at a single academic center from 2006 to 2018, were queried and reviewed. Cases in which hemiarthroplasty or RTSA was revised to RTSA were excluded. Electronic medical records and survey databases were reviewed for each subject. Demographic and surgical details were reviewed and analyzed with descriptive statistics. Preoperative and postoperative range of motion (ROM) including active forward elevation and active external rotation were evaluated. Patient-reported outcome surveys including the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons survey, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and visual analog scale for pain were collected and analyzed. Improvement in ROM and outcome survey measures was assessed with 2-sample t tests. Complication and reoperation rates were analyzed with descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

A total of 75 patients (32 men and 43 women) were available for analysis at a mean of 22.3 months. The subjects were aged 60.3 ± 11.3 years at the time of TSA and 64.6 ± 9.7 years at the time of RTSA. The average period between TSA and RTSA was 4.3 years. The 3 most common indications for revision RTSA were painful arthroplasty (n = 62, 82.7%), rotator cuff failure (n = 56, 74.7%), and unstable arthroplasty (n = 25, 33.3%), but the majority of patients had multiple indications for surgery (n = 69, 92%). Significant improvements were found in all outcome measures from the time of failed TSA diagnosis to most recent follow-up after salvage RTSA with the exception of active external rotation: American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, 39 ± 15 preoperatively vs. 62 ± 25 postoperatively; Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, 27 ± 23 vs. 60 ± 30; visual analog scale pain score, 5 ± 2 vs. 3 ± 3; and active forward elevation, 79° ± 41° vs. 128° ± 33°. Major complications occurred in 21 patients (28.4%) after salvage RTSA, and 9 (12%) underwent reoperation.

CONCLUSIONS

RTSA for failed TSA can improve pain, function, and quality-of-life measures in patients with various TSA failure etiologies. However, postoperative ROM and patient-reported outcomes do not reach the values seen in the primary RTSA population.

Pyrocarbon interposition shoulder arthroplasty in young arthritic patients: a prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

We evaluated survival and midterm results of pyrocarbon interposition shoulder arthroplasty (PISA) in arthritic patients younger than 65 years.

METHODS

Fifty-eight PISAs (InSpyre; Tornier-Wright, Bloomington, MN, USA), implanted in 56 patients between 2010 and 2015, were prospectively observed. The mean age at surgery was 52 ± 13 years. The cause was primary osteoarthritis (18), fracture sequelae (16), post-instability arthritis (15), aseptic necrosis (3), inflammatory disease (2), and failed hemiarthroplasty (4); 34 shoulders (61%) had previously undergone surgery. Glenoid erosion was assessed in 4 grades according to the Sperling classification. Humeral erosion was also assessed in 4 grades. Multivariate analysis was used to determine predisposing risk factors for both humeral and glenoid erosion.

RESULTS

At a mean follow-up of 47 ± 15 months, survival rate was 90%. Six patients (10%) required conversion to reverse total shoulder prosthesis for painful glenoid erosion (n = 2) and humeral erosion with greater tuberosity stress fractures (n = 4). The mean Constant score and subjective shoulder value significantly increased from 36 ± 14 points to 70 ± 15 points and 32% ± 14% to 75% ± 19%, respectively (P < .001). Humeral medialization was observed in 78% of the cases with increased pain score. Uncorrected anteroposterior implant subluxation (12 cases) was associated with lower Constant score (50 points vs. 72 points; P = .02) and lower subjective shoulder value (53% vs. 78%; P = .002). On multivariate analysis, no risk factors for glenoid or humeral erosion were found.

CONCLUSION

At midterm follow-up, PISA does not protect from progressive glenoid erosion and can lead to greater tuberosity erosion and stress fractures. Longer follow-up is required to see whether PISA survival will be superior to that of hemiarthroplasty.

Arthroscopic Management of Glenohumeral Arthritis

Glenohumeral arthritis in the young adult is a particularly challenging condition for which optimal treatment algorithms have yet to be established. Arthroscopic joint-preserving treatments have the advantage of delaying arthroplasty in this younger population while maintaining the patient's natural anatomy and do not appear to compromise later arthroplasty. Various surgical techniques are available such that the overall procedure is tailored to the patient's individual pathology. Most short- and mid-term studies show good outcomes with low conversion to total shoulder arthroplasty and sustained improvements in functional outcome scores.

Arthroscopic Anatomic Glenoid Reconstruction: Analysis of the Learning Curve

Background

Anatomic glenoid reconstruction involves the use of distal tibial allograft for bony augmentation of the glenoid surface. An all-arthroscopic approach was recently described to avoid damage to the subscapularis tendon and preserve the capsule and labrum.

Purpose

To explore and compare change in surgical time between 2 proposed methods used for the treatment of anterior shoulder instability-arthroscopic anatomic glenoid reconstruction (AAGR) and arthroscopic Latarjet (AL)-over successive procedures. We also compared graft positioning on the anterior glenoid surface between the 2 methods.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

This was a single-surgeon retrospective review of 54 cases of surgically treated recurrent anterior shoulder instability: 27 had AAGR with distal tibial allograft, while the other 27 had AL. AAGR with the distal tibial allograft was the primary choice for the treatment of anterior shoulder instability; however, AL was performed when tibial allograft was not available from the bone bank. Thus, there was an overlapping period for those 2 procedures. Procedure start and end times were recorded, and duration was calculated. Postoperative 3-dimensional computed tomography scans were reviewed, and graft position was judged to be in the lower third (desired position), middle third, or upper third of the anterior glenoid surface. To assess learning, these data were organized in chronological order of surgery, and each surgical cohort was divided into 3 chronological clusters of 9 patients each. Learning was assessed through change in operative time over successive clusters, change in variability of operative time among clusters, and change in graft positioning among clusters. Statistical analysis comprised a 2-tailed independent-sample t test and the Levene test for equality of variance.

Results

Our study found that AAGR was significantly faster to perform than AL in the early (P = .001), middle (P = .001), and late (P = .05) clusters of each cohort. Duration of surgery did not significantly improve across clusters within each cohort (P = .15-.79). There were no significant changes in the variability of surgical time in the AAGR group (P = .09) or the AL group (P = .13). Desired positioning of the bone graft on the anterior glenoid surface (lower third) was identified more commonly in the AAGR cohort.

Conclusion

AAGR is faster to learn and perform than AL for the treatment of recurrent anterior shoulder instability with significant glenoid bone loss. The current study found higher rates of desired graft positioning for AAGR clusters.

Establishing maximal medical improvement after anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

As a heightened emphasis continues to be placed on value-based health care, quality outcomes following orthopedic procedures must be properly defined. With knowledge of the time to maximal medical improvement following total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), physician resources can be justly allocated to optimize value in ambulatory orthopedic care.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review was conducted to identify studies reporting sequential follow-up at several time points, up to a minimum of 2 years after TSA. Assessment for clinically significant improvements between time intervals was made by using the minimal clinically important difference specific to each patient-reported outcome measure.

RESULTS

We identified 13 studies that fit the criteria to be included in this review, amounting to 984 patients who underwent TSA. Clinically significant improvements in patient-reported outcome scores were appreciated up to 1 year following TSA, but no further clinical significance was seen from 1 year to 2 years. Objective physical examination measurements followed a similar trend, with clinically significant improvements in abduction occurring up to 1 year postoperatively. For both the subjective and objective outcomes, the majority of improvements occurred in the first 3 months after the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

Following TSA, clinically significant improvements in patient-reported outcomes and objective clinical measurements are seen up to 1 year postoperatively but not beyond this time. This result is important for counseling patients and modifying their expectations prior to surgery as well as for establishing a time frame for maximized outcome evaluation to define the value received from TSA.

Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis in the Young Patient

Glenohumeral osteoarthritis in the young patient (aged <60 years) is a difficult condition, given both age and functional demands. Primary osteoarthritis is the most common etiology in this patient demographic, but secondary causes include osteonecrosis, previous trauma (eg, fracture-dislocation), previous infection (eg, septic arthritis), previous capsulorrhaphy, previous arthroscopic surgery (eg, chondrolysis), and glenoid dysplasia. Nonsurgical modalities, including activity modification, pharmacotherapy, physical therapy, and intra-articular injections, are the mainstay of management; however, in young patients who have exhausted nonsurgical management, surgical options include arthroscopic débridement, humeral head replacement with or without glenoid treatment (ie, biologic glenoid resurfacing, glenoid reaming), and total or reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. Unfortunately, failure rates after surgical management are considerably higher in young patients compared with those observed in older, more sedentary patients. Here, we focus on the etiology, evaluation, and management of young patients with glenohumeral osteoarthritis, with a focus on clinical outcomes.

[Options in joint-preserving surgical treatment of osteoarthritis]

BACKGROUND

The treatment of glenohumeral arthritis represents a major challenge in highly active younger patients. In these patients, an endoprosthetic treatment often achieves only unsatisfactory results with a limited lifetime of the implant.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to identify joint-preserving therapies for glenohumeral arthritis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For this study, an extensive and selective literature search was performed.

RESULTS

There are several options available for joint-preserving treatment of glenohumeral arthritis. In addition to arthroscopic debridement with treatment of concomitant pathologies, CAM procedures (CAM: comprehensive arthroscopic management) according to Millett, as well as the interposition of allografts are other options. For all therapy options, an improved range of motion and pain reduction is described. A joint gap of <2 mm, bipolar cartilage lesions and age are described as risk factors for failure of the therapies.

DISCUSSION

Short and mid-term results have been described for arthroscopic debridement, but there are no long-term and high-quality studies to enable us to make clear recommendations. The CAM procedure and the interposition of an allograft are demanding procedures that should be reserved for experienced arthroscopists. The therapies are an option for younger patients in accordance with individual decisions and realistic expectations.

Long-term Clinical Outcomes After Microfracture of the Glenohumeral Joint: Average 10-Year Follow-up

BACKGROUND

Microfracture is an effective surgical treatment for full-thickness cartilage defects of the knee; however, little is known regarding long-term outcomes after microfracture in the shoulder.

PURPOSE

To present long-term clinical outcomes of patients undergoing microfracture of full-thickness articular cartilage defects of the glenohumeral joint.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Sixteen consecutive patients (17 shoulders) were retrospectively reviewed who underwent arthroscopic microfracture of the humeral head and/or glenoid surface, with or without additional procedures between 2001 and 2008 and with a minimum follow-up of 8.5 years. All patients completed pre- and postoperative surveys containing the visual analog scale, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons form, and Simple Shoulder Test. Complications and reoperations were analyzed. Failure was defined by biological resurfacing or conversion to arthroplasty.

RESULTS

Of the original 16 patients (17 shoulders), 13 patients (14 shoulders) were available for mean follow-up at 10.2 ± 1.8 years after microfracture (range, 8.5-15.8 years), for an overall clinical follow-up rate of 82%. The patients (6 men, 7 women) were 36.1 ± 12.9 years old at time of microfracture. The average size of humeral head defects was 5.20 cm² (range, 4.0-7.84 cm²), and the average size of glenoid defects was 1.53 cm² (range, 1.0-3.75 cm²). Four patients (4 shoulders) underwent at least 1 reoperation, and 3 were considered to have structural failures. The average time to failure was 3.7 years after microfracture (range, 0.2-9.6 years). The overall survival rate was 76.6% at 9.6 years. For these patients, there were statistically significant improvements in visual analog scale, Simple Shoulder Test, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores as compared with preoperative values at long-term follow-up ( P < .05 for all), without any significant change from short-term (mean, 2.3 years) to long-term (mean, 10.2 years) follow-up. There was no significant difference in Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation or Short Form-12 Physical or Mental scores between short- and long-term follow-up. When compared with short-term follow-up, in which 2 patients had already failed, 1 additional patient progressed to failure at 9.6 years after the original microfracture. Two patients (2 shoulders) were considered to have clinical failure. Owing to the overall number of failures (3 structural failure and 2 clinical failure), the total long-term success rate of glenohumeral microfracture is 66.7% in the current study.

CONCLUSION

Treating full-thickness symptomatic chondral defects of the glenohumeral joint with microfracture can result in long-term improved function and reduced pain for some patients. However, in this case series, 21.4% of patients required conversion to arthroplasty <10 years after the index microfracture procedure, and 33% to 42% of patients were considered to have potential clinical failure. Additional studies with larger patient cohorts are needed.

Arthroscopic Joint Preservation in Severe Glenohumeral Arthritis Using Interpositional Human Dermal Allograft

PURPOSE

To investigate the outcomes of arthroscopic glenoid resurfacing (AGR) for severe glenohumeral arthritis at short- to medium-term follow-up.

METHODS

We performed a multicenter retrospective review of consecutive patients undergoing AGR (2005-2013) with a minimum of 2 years' follow-up or until revision. Patients lost to follow-up and those included in a prior study were excluded. The indications for AGR were severe primary shoulder osteoarthritis without significant bone loss in younger, higher-demand patients. Outcome measures included revision, pain and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores, and range of motion. Exact logistic regression was used to assess preoperative risk factors for revision.

RESULTS

Forty-three shoulders with an average of 60 months' clinical follow-up underwent AGR. The rate of revision to prosthetic arthroplasty was 23% (95% confidence interval [CI], 12%-39%) after a mean of 45 months. The visual analog scale pain score (0-10) improved from a median of 7 to 2 (median difference [Δ], 4 [95% CI, 3-6]; P < .0001), representing pain relief similar to total shoulder arthroplasty in young patients. Improvements in the median ASES score (from 47 to 76; Δ, 28 [95% CI, 17-40]; P < .0001), active forward elevation (from 110° to 140°; Δ, 20° [95% CI, 10°-35°]; P < .0001), and active external rotation (from 0° to 20°; Δ, 10° [95% CI, 5°-20°]; P < .0001) were noted. The mean age of revised shoulders (60 years [95% CI, 54-66 years]) was higher than that of surviving shoulders (53 years [95% CI, 50-57 years], P = .005). The preoperative ASES score of revised shoulders (34 [95% CI, 27-42]) was lower than that of surviving shoulders (47 [95% CI, 43-51], P = .006). No complications were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

AGR with dermal allograft is a safe option for joint preservation in selected patients, provides pain relief, and has an acceptable rate of revision to prosthetic arthroplasty at short-term to midterm follow-up. Increased age and lower preoperative ASES score were risk factors for failure of AGR.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Outcomes of total shoulder arthroplasty in patients younger than 65 years: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Despite concerns about the longevity of total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) in young patients, it remains an attractive option because of the absence of superior options.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed using searches of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases. English-language studies were identified with search terms "total shoulder arthroplasty" (title/abstract) or "shoulder replacement" (title/abstract) and "young" (title/abstract) or "under 65 years of age" (title/abstract). Duplicate studies, studies not reporting outcomes, and those using a humeral resurfacing technique were excluded. Outcomes of interest included pain, range of motion, patient-reported outcome scores, patient satisfaction, radiographic changes, complication and revision rates, and implant survival.

RESULTS

Six studies met inclusion criteria. Significant improvements in pain, range of motion, and patient-reported outcomes were found across all studies that reported these measures. At an average of 9.4 years, 17.4% underwent revision and 54% had glenoid lucency. Whereas glenoid loosening is the most common reason for revision (52%), overall implant survivorship was reported at 60% to 80% at 10- to 20-year follow-up. Outcome measures including the Constant, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, and Simple Shoulder Test scores were reported, with generally satisfactory but not excellent results between 3 and 10 years from surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Although there is concern with periprosthetic radiolucency and glenoid loosening in the young patient (<65 years) undergoing TSA, overall low revision rates and high implant survivorship are reported in the current literature. Whereas the patient-reported outcomes are inferior to those of the overall TSA population, there is significant improvement from baseline levels in young patients with glenohumeral arthritis.

Prevention and management of post-instability glenohumeral arthropathy

Post-instability arthropathy may commonly develop in high-risk patients with a history of recurrent glenohumeral instability, both with and without surgical stabilization. Classically related to anterior shoulder instability, the incidence and rates of arthritic progression may vary widely. Radiographic arthritic changes may be present in up to two-thirds of patients after primary Bankart repair and 30% after Latarjet procedure, with increasing rates associated with recurrent dislocation history, prominent implant position, non-anatomic reconstruction, and/or lateralized bone graft placement. However, the presence radiographic arthrosis does not predict poor patient-reported function. After exhausting conservative measures, both joint-preserving and arthroplasty surgical options may be considered depending on a combination of patient-specific and anatomic factors. Arthroscopic procedures are optimally indicated for individuals with focal disease and may yield superior symptomatic relief when combined with treatment of combined shoulder pathology. For more advanced secondary arthropathy, total shoulder arthroplasty remains the most reliable option, although the clinical outcomes, wear characteristics, and implant survivorship remains a concern among active, young patients.

Total shoulder replacement using a bone ingrowth central peg polyethylene glenoid component: a prospective clinical and computed tomography study with short- to mid-term follow-up

AIM OF THE STUDY

To assess the clinical and computed tomography (CT) outcomes of shoulder replacement with a novel bone ingrowth all-polyethylene glenoid component (APGC).

METHODS

Twenty-eight patients (30 shoulders) with osteoarthritis, mean age 62.3 years (range, 45-75), were implanted with the novel component between 2011 and 2013. Patients were evaluated by active range of motion (ROM), Constant-Murley score (CMS), simple shoulder test (SST), X-rays, and multidetector CT at two months and at a mean follow-up of 31 months (range, 24-39). Early and late follow-up CT scans were available for 21/30 shoulders.

RESULTS

Median ROM increased from 105 to 160° for anterior elevation, from 100 to 160° for lateral elevation, from 20 to 40° for external rotation, and from 2 to 10 points for internal rotation (all p < 0.001). CMS rose from 30 to 80.5 points and SST from 2.5 to 11 (both p < 0.0001). None of the glenoid components migrated. Progressive radiolucency was seen in 28/30 shoulders. There was a strong correlation between greater bone ingrowth (median Arnold score: 7) and lower radiolucency score (median Yian score: 2) at the last follow-up (p < 0.001). Osteolysis around the central peg was seen in two shoulders. There was no correlation between clinical scores and CT findings (p >0.05).

DISCUSSION

The partially cemented glenoid component for TSR assessed in this study resulted in satisfactory shoulder function at an early follow-up. The glenoid prosthesis was stable, with few radiolucent lines and good central peg bone ingrowth.

CONCLUSIONS

The satisfactory bone ingrowth documented on CT is encouraging and supports the use of the new prosthesis. Long-term follow-up studies can confirm if this device represents a rational alternative to fully cemented polyethylene glenoids.

Editorial Commentary: Platelet-Rich Plasma Improves Knee Pain and Function in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis

Systematic review of overlapping meta-analyses shows that platelet-rich plasma improves knee pain and function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Ultimately, biologics hold promise for chondroprotection in addition to symptomatic relief.

Editorial Commentary: Shoulder Arthroscopy, Shoulder Hemiarthroplasty, and Total Shoulder Arthroplasty for Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis

Shoulder arthroscopy offers a safe, effective, and less invasive alternative to arthroplasty in patients under 60 years of age with glenohumeral arthritis. However, indications include joint space of greater than 2 mm. For patients who do not meet arthroscopic indications, total shoulder arthroplasty is more effective than hemiarthroplasty. Performance and publication bias may effect generalizability of these findings. Biologic treatment options seem on the horizon.