[Reverse shoulder arthroplasty]

Abstract

Shoulder pain is a common problem for general practitioners. The objectives of a shoulder arthroplasty are to improve the articular function and to provide pain relief. Anatomic shoulder arthroplasty is not the treatment of choice if a rotator cuff deficiency is associated with arthritis. In some circumstances (muscle or tendon deficiency) rotator cuff repair is technically impossible. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has opened new opportunities for patients suffering with shoulder conditions such as shoulder pseudoparalysis and revision surgery. RSA is rarely proposed to patients below the age of 60 but thereafter there is no age limit. With this procedure, the functional improvement can be achieved after days or weeks. A new surgical approach allows for early active mobilization without a specific rehabilitation period.