Glenohumeral joint replacement and postoperative rehabilitation.

Prosthetic replacement of the humeral head in patients with severe fractures that detach or crush the articular surface and in patients with glenohumeral arthritis has been done at the Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center since 1953. Recently, a revised prosthesis for the articular surface of the head of the humerus has been used in combination with a polyethylene glenoid component. This method of total shoulder replacement has been used in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and in other conditions where the glenoid fossa is abnormal. Postoperative physical therapy management is especially important in this unique joint and is explained in detail.