Shoulder resurfacing: is it really as good as total shoulder replacement?

Cementless shoulder resurfacing arthroplasty differs in many aspects from the nonconstrained stemmed shoulder prosthesis. The design concept is replacement only of the damaged joint-bearing surfaces and restoration of normal anatomy with minimal bone resection. Shoulder resurfacing has been developed over the last 25 years with good initial and long-term results. Usage has increased worldwide. The indications are the same as for traditional shoulder replacements in degenerative arthritis. Surface replacement can either be done as humeral surface arthroplasty or total shoulder replacement. The results of shoulder resurfacing are at least comparable with those for stemmed prostheses. However, using shoulder resurfacing reduces the risk of complications involving the humeral shaft. Revision or arthrodesis, if the need arises, can be undertaken easier because the bone stock has been preserved. The long-term follow-up has proven the good outcome and the longevity of the Copeland cementless resurfacing prosthesis that remains a procedure of choice for the treatment of advanced arthritis of the shoulder.