Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty has undergone numerous refinements since its introduction. In addition to being an effective treatment for severe cuff tear arthropathy, indications have expanded to include failed prior cuff surgery, pseudoparalysis, anterior-superior escape, tuberosity nonunion or malunion, and acute shoulder fractures. A number of studies have shown that reverse total shoulder arthroplasty can restore function including overhead elevation, improve pain, and increase external rotation. Common complications include scapular notching, dislocation, and infection. In the hands of skilled shoulder surgeons, reverse total shoulder arthroplasty can be a successful treatment for cuff tear arthropathy and other severe pathological conditions of the shoulder.