Results of cementless humeral head resurfacing with cemented glenoid components.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to analyse the short- and medium-term clinical and radiographic results of cementless humeral head resurfacing in combination with a cemented glenoid component.

METHODS: Thirty-five patients with a mean age of 65 years (range 42-84) and a mean follow-up of three years (two to six) were followed up. The Constant score with its subgroups as well as shoulder motions and complications were recorded. Radiographs in two planes were analysed for loosening of the components.

RESULTS: Mean Constant score improved from 29 points (6-63) to 70 points (41-89; p < 0.001). Mean shoulder flexion increased from 89° (20-170) to 158° (100-180) and mean external rotation from 10° (-10-30) to 39° (10-80). Satisfaction rate was 94 % at final follow-up. None of the components was found to be loose. There were three neurological complications, probably related to increased forces on the humeral head retractor during glenoid preparation. Two of them resolved completely; in one patient hyposensitivity remained.

CONCLUSION: Cementless humeral surface replacement arthroplasty in combination with a cemented glenoid component leads to an overall satisfactory clinical outcome. However, the high rate of neurological complications found in this study, probably related to difficult glenoid exposure, led us to discontinue this implant configuration.