Shoulder arthroplasty can be performed for the treatment of the sequelae of an infected shoulder with low risk of reinfection, according to study results.
Twenty-four shoulders underwent shoulder arthroplasty for postinfectious glenohumeral arthritis between 1977 and 2009. Researchers monitored 23 shoulders for a minimum of 2 years or until reoperation and documented complications and clinical and radiographic results at the most recent follow-up.
Study results showed all shoulders had no pain or mild or moderate pain after vigorous activity. After shoulder arthroplasty, pain scores improved from 4.5 to 2.1 points, mean shoulder abduction improved from 62° to 110° and mean external rotation improved from 14° to 47°, according to the researchers.
The researchers also found ratings of much better or better in 16 shoulders, and only five shoulders required reoperation, with two having an infectious cause.
Excellent Neer rating was observed in two shoulders, satisfactory or successful ratings were observed in nine and unsatisfactory rating was observed in 12.
According to radiographic follow-up, three glenoids and three humeral components were at risk for loosening.