Total Shoulder Arthroplasty—Indications, Technique, and Results

More patients are becoming candidates for total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), with an increase in frequency of the procedure paralleling the increase in other total joint arthroplasties. TSA is indicated in the treatment of advanced primary and secondary arthritic conditions of the shoulder after failure of nonoperative management. Studies have shown survivorship rates comparable with other joint arthroplasties at short-, mid-, and long-term follow-up, and substantial improvements in pain relief, patient satisfaction, and objective measures, such as range of motion, strength, and shoulder outcome scores. Complications can occur, however, and technical problems, such as component placement and fixation, are prominent features among unsatisfactory arthroplasties. Therefore, appropriate surgical technique is essential in minimizing complications and maximizing functional outcomes after shoulder arthroplasty. The purpose of this article is to review the indications, surgical technique, and results of TSA. Careful patient selection, preoperative planning, surgical technique, and postoperative management remain essential to a successful patient outcome after TSA.