Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) has become increasingly common in recent years due to expanding indications and improved surgical techniques. Short-stem humeral implants have gained attention because they preserve bone stock, allow metaphyseal fixation, and facilitate potential revision procedures. The aim of this study is to evaluate radiographic and clinical outcomes following reverse shoulder arthroplasty with a short humeral stem after a minimum follow-up of two years. Patients who underwent RTSA at the Department of Orthopedics at Ordensklinikum Linz will be invited for clinical and radiographic follow-up. Clinical outcomes will be assessed using established shoulder scores including the Constant Score, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and the Simple Shoulder Test (SST). Radiographic evaluation will focus on humeral-sided changes such as stress shielding, radiolucent lines, osteolysis, and fractures. Patient satisfaction will additionally be assessed using visual analogue scales and patient-reported outcome measures. Demographic variables, comorbidities, and implant-related characteristics will be collected to allow descriptive evaluation of factors potentially associated with clinical and radiographic outcomes.
Retrospective with prospective follow-up
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
50
Ordensklinikum Linz - Barmherzige Schwester
Linz, Austria
Radiographic Changes of the Humeral Component
Assessment of humeral-sided radiographic changes including: Stress shielding Radiolucent lines Osteolysis Periprosthetic fractures Measured using standardized radiographs at follow-up.
Time frame: ≥2 years postoperatively
Constant-Murley Score (Constant Score)
The Constant Score is a comprehensive shoulder function assessment. The total score ranges from 0 to 100 points. Higher scores indicate better shoulder performance and function; lower scores indicate greater functional impairment and symptoms.
Time frame: up to 3 years postoperatively
American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Score (ASES)
The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Score is used to assess shoulder pain and function. The total score ranges from 0 to 100 points. Higher scores indicate better shoulder function, less pain, and fewer activity limitations; lower scores indicate greater pain, impaired shoulder function, and increased disability.
Time frame: up to 3 years postoperatively
Simple Shoulder Test Score (SST)
Shoulder function will be assessed using the Simple Shoulder Test. The total score ranges from 0 to 12 points. Higher scores indicate better shoulder function.
Time frame: up to 3 Years Postoperatively
Return to Sport Rate (RTS)
Return to sport will be assessed as the proportion or percentage of patients who returned to sport participation after surgery. Higher percentages indicate a better outcome, reflecting a greater rate of successful return to sport.
Time frame: up to 3 years postoperatively
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