Total shoulder replacement.

In total shoulder replacement the result is highly dependent upon the integrity or reconstructability of the muscles, tendons, and capsule, as well as the experience of the surgeon. Stability and function of an unconstrained implant are a result of the interrelationship of critical factors such as humeral length, humeral and glenoid version, appropriate abductor tension, rotator cuff integrity, and capsular reconstruction. If these factors are not present and preserved, they must be reconstructed. The results obtained in this study are comparable to those previously published using similar shoulder arthroplasty systems. Total shoulder replacement must be considered a relatively new procedure, but results justify some optimism for the durability of this procedure.