A “convertible” humeral stem: A step forward in revision of total shoulder arthroplasty

Revision total shoulder arthroplasty is performed for a variety of patient symptoms, including shoulder pain, instability, or stiffness. The technical reasons found for revision include component loosening or malposition. Removing the humeral stem during revision can increase morbidity and blood loss during a procedure. The ability to use a universal stem that can be utilized in both anatomic and reverse shoulder arthroplasty can be beneficial in three main areas. For revision surgeries, cost is much less, OR time is decreased, and complications are much less frequent.