Complications of reverse shoulder arthroplasty

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty is a common treatment for shoulder disorders. Complication rates after reverse shoulder arthroplasty are significantly higher than that of conventional total shoulder arthroplasty especially in high risk patient populations. Complications include instability, intra-operative glenoid fractures, intra-operative humeral fractures, acromial fractures, neurologic injury, infection, baseplate failure, humeral stem loosening, component dissociation, dislocation, and scapular notching. Recognition of risk factors, thorough understanding of the mechanics of the reverse arthroplasty and techniques for implantation, and pre-operative planning are essential in optimizing patient outcome and intra-operative success. Failure of reverse shoulder arthroplasty is a significant challenge requiring appropriate diagnosis of the failure mode.