(iv) Shoulder arthrodesis

Shoulder arthrodesis is rarely performed, but is a valuable reconstructive option for difficult shoulder problems. The success of shoulder arthroplasty has significantly diminished the frequency with which this operation is carried out. However, the durable results of arthrodesis have stood the test of time and it remains the operation of choice for highly selected patients with various forms of paralytic and destructive pathology about the shoulder, particularly problems that are not suitable for shoulder replacement.