Design Considerations for the Glenohumeral Prosthesis

The shoulder joint provides us with a large range of motion. This is enabled by the shallowness of the glenoid cavity and the cooperation of many bone elements of the shoulder girdle. This results in complex biomechanics and dependency to surrounding soft tissues for its stability. Due to a fracture or joint diseases, a shoulder replacement may have to be performed, aiming at removing the excessive pain and to restore joint functionality. Especially post-operative joint functionality is not sufficient to perform tasks of daily living and many post-operative complications occur. Results must be improved, which, among others, can be achieved by design improvements. To restore the natural anatomy, the anatomical glenohumeral prosthesis is used, of which the geometry, insertion and fixation have been investigated. Parallel, a conceptually new design is developed, proposed for patients for whom no long lasting reliable solution is available. This design focuses on integration of lost anatomical functions with improved fixation techniques