Techniques in shoulder and elbow surgery: Glenohumeral arthrodesis

Arthrodesis of the glenohumeral joint remains an important procedure in the treatment of complex and disabling problems of the shoulder that cannot be treated by other means. It is a difficult operation, but it is highly successful. However, complications can occur and must be treated appropriately. Patients must be counseled preoperatively about the limitations of function and the necessity of good scapulothoracic muscle function postoperatively.