Analysis of Data Favors Total Shoulder Over Partial Replacement

Debate about the best treatment for patients with shoulder osteoarthritis is ongoing. Studies comparing a partial with a total shoulder replacement have mixed results. In this article researchers review all the latest studies comparing these two operations and report the results.

Sometimes patients don't need the entire shoulder joint removed and replaced. Replacing only part or half of a shoulder joint is called a hemiarthroplasty. According to the results of this review, the hemiarthroplasty didn't do as well as the total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA).

Patients with a TSA had better motion and better function two years after the operation. The authors say long-term studies are needed to see if problems occur with either type of implant. Results to date should be considered preliminary.