Arthrodesis of the shoulder used in treating painful conditions.

By the time a patient's shoulder problem has reached the stage in which an arthrodesis is being considered, the patient usually is willing to accept the restraints of an arthrodesed shoulder. If there is a chance of relieving chronic pain and restoring some reasonable degree of function in the upper extremity, arthrodesis warrants consideration. However, failure to relieve pain and restore function may cause unhappiness. Because of recent advances in the surgical technique and the improved, more comfortable anatomic position of the arm at the side of the body, the patient is considering arthrodesis of the shoulder with much greater optimism. With the ability to reach the face and hair, the back and buttocks region, and the feet with ease, the patient with an arthrodesed shoulder is much happier, more comfortable, and less depressed.