Rotator cuff deficient arthritis of the glenohumeral joint

• Published in: Clinics in orthopedic surgery Vol. 2; no. 4; pp. 196 - 202
• Main Authors: Macaulay, Alec A, Greiwe, R Michael, Bigliani, Louis U
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Korea (South) The Korean Orthopaedic Association 01.12.2010; 대한정형외과학회
• Subjects: Arthritis - diagnosis; Arthritis - etiology; Arthritis - surgery; Arthroplasty, Replacement - adverse effects; Arthroplasty, Replacement - methods; Humans; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Review; Rotator Cuff Injuries; Shoulder Joint - diagnostic imaging; Shoulder Joint - surgery; Tomography, X-Ray Computed; 정형외과학; Glenohumeral arthritis; Rotator cuff tear; Cuff tear arthropathy; Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty
• ISSN: 2005-291X; 2005-4408
• DOI: 10.4055/cios.2010.2.4.196

Rotator cuff deficient arthritis of the glenohumeral joint, especially cuff tear arthropathy, has proved a challenging clinical entity for orthopaedic surgeons ever since Charles Neer originally detailed the problem in 1983. Understanding has improved regarding the pathophysiology and pathomechanics underlying cuff tear arthropathy. Surgical reconstruction options can lead to excellent outcomes for patients afflicted with these painful and functionally limited shoulders. Humeral hemiarthroplasty and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty have jumped to the forefront in the treatment of cuff tear arthropathy. As studies continue to look at the results of these procedures in cuff tear arthropathy, existing indications and treatment algorithms will be further refined. In this article the history and pathophysiology of cuff tear arthropathy are reviewed. Additionally, the clinical findings and results of surgical reconstruction are discussed.