Long-term results of uncemented humeral components in shoulder arthroplasty

The purpose of this study was to determine the longterm results of uncemented humeral components in shoulder arthroplasty. We reviewed 37 shoulder arthroplasties with press-fit humeral components with a mean follow-up of 9.2 years (range, 5.8-13.6 years). The mean Constant score was 57 points (range, 16-95 points), and the results in 70% of the patients remained satisfactory. No complications or revisions occurred related to the uncemented humeral component. On radiographic analysis, none of the humeral components showed subsidence. Of the components, 22 (59%) showed radiolucency, 12 (32%) had endosteal erosion, and 5 (14%) had tilted. Of the humeral components, 7 (19%) were judged to be at risk for loosening. The prevalence of an at-risk humeral component was not associated with increasing pain or deteriorating function. This study shows favorable results with the use of uncemented humeral components in shoulder arthroplasty, with a low prevalence of clinical loosening at long-term follow-up.