Prosthetic replacement of the glenohumeral joint has become accepted as a successful treatment for a variety of degenerative, traumatic, and posttraumatic conditions around the shoulder. Multiple studies with long-term follow-up have demonstrated improvements in pain and function with excellent longevity. As experience with primary arthroplasty has accumulated, improved techniques for revision surgery have evolved as well. In the past 2 decades, the emergence of the reverse total shoulder arthroplasty has added another option for the treatment of patients with advanced glenohumeral conditions associated with end-stage rotator cuff dysfunction and/or glenoid deformity. This chapter discusses the indications, surgical technique, outcomes, and complications of shoulder arthroplasty.
