Glenoid bone grafting with a reverse design prosthesis

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of patients who underwent glenoid bone grafting and implantation of a reverse design prosthesis in 1 or 2 stages for the treatment of glenoid bone loss and rotator cuff insufficiency. Indications for the reverse prosthesis in this series included cuff tear arthropathy and revision arthroplasty. Nine patients were reviewed clinically and radiographically with a minimum 2-year follow-up (range, 24-41 months). Despite a low postoperative functional score (mean Constant score, 53 points [range, 22-79 points]), most patients were satisfied with their results primarily because of pain relief. (The mean pain score increased from 3 points preoperatively to 12.5 points postoperatively.) Radiographic evaluation did not demonstrate component loosening or evidence of graft failure. Six patients had radiographic evidence of an inferior scapular notch, which may be of concern in the future. Early results of this procedure are encouraging, but further clinical and radiologic assessment is necessary.