Shoulder replacement in rheumatoid arthritis

Omarthritis occurs frequently during the early course of rheumatoid arthrit is. Many rheumatoid patients ignore omarthritis because of the good compens ation mechanism of the shoulder. Sonography and tomography enable early dia gnosis of omarthritis before deterioration is radiologically visible. Arthroplasty gives better results when the musculotendinous rotator cuff is still intact. Therefore, arthroplasty should be performed before severe da mage develops. Early indication for cup arthroplasty of the humeral head is justified because of better options in revision surgery. Glenoid component s show a high incidence of radiolucency and loosening in rheumatoid patient s. Cemented hemiarthroplasties show the lowest rate of loosening.