BACKGROUND: The management of glenohumeral osteoarthritis in younger patients with high activity levels remains a challenge to orthopedic surgeons. The clinical results of joint replacement surgery are commonly unsatisfactory in this particular cohort with the associated problem of limited longevity of the implant. OBJECTIVES: This paper reviews the indications, techniques and outcomes of joint-preserving arthroscopic surgery for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the shoulder. METHODS: A selective literature search was performed and personal surgical experiences are reported. RESULTS: Besides significant pain reduction, improved range of motion and increased patient satisfaction, arthroscopic surgery can delay the need for total shoulder arthroplasty. A comprehensive approach that addresses all concomitant pathologies of the shoulder joint is of particular importance. Recent studies have shown that a glenohumeral joint space of less than 2 mm predicts significantly poorer results with arthroscopic therapy. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic procedures are a good option to treat young, active patients with osteoarthritis of the shoulder. Patient selection and setting a consensus for appropriate preoperative expectations are of particular relevance.
BACKGROUND: The management of glenohumeral osteoarthritis in younger patients with high activity levels remains a challenge to orthopedic surgeons. The clinical results of joint replacement surgery are commonly unsatisfactory in this particular cohort with the associated problem of limited longevity of the implant. OBJECTIVES: This paper reviews the indications, techniques and outcomes of joint-preserving arthroscopic surgery for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the shoulder. METHODS: A selective literature search was performed and personal surgical experiences are reported. RESULTS: Besides significant pain reduction, improved range of motion and increased patient satisfaction, arthroscopic surgery can delay the need for total shoulder arthroplasty. A comprehensive approach that addresses all concomitant pathologies of the shoulder joint is of particular importance. Recent studies have shown that a glenohumeral joint space of less than 2 mm predicts significantly poorer results with arthroscopic therapy. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic procedures are a good option to treat young, active patients with osteoarthritis of the shoulder. Patient selection and setting a consensus for appropriate preoperative expectations are of particular relevance.
Authors: Geoffrey S Van Thiel; Steven Sheehan; Rachel M Frank; Mark Slabaugh; Brian J Cole; Gregory P Nicholson; Anthony A Romeo; Nikhil N Verma Journal: Arthroscopy Date: 2010-09-27 Impact factor: 4.772
Authors: Joe F de Beer; Deepak N Bhatia; Karin S van Rooyen; Donald F Du Toit Journal: Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc Date: 2010-05-18 Impact factor: 4.342
Authors: Anthony A Romeo; Brian J Cole; Augustus D Mazzocca; Jeff A Fox; Kevin B Freeman; Edward Joy Journal: Arthroscopy Date: 2002-10 Impact factor: 4.772