Clinical and radiographic outcomes of an all-polyethylene fluted central peg glenoid component, implanted utilizing an off-label, uncemented technique, at a minimum 5-year follow-up.

BACKGROUND: Glenoid component loosening remains an important concern in anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic results of a fully uncemented all-polyethylene fluted central peg bone-ingrowth glenoid component at a minimum 5-year follow-up.

METHODS: Thirty-five shoulders in 31 patients (mean age, 73 years) with a mean follow-up of 100 months were retrospectively evaluated at an early and mid-term time point for Constant score (CS). Computed tomography visualized glenoid component fixation at both time points.

RESULTS: Mean CS improved from 40 preoperatively to 66 postoperatively at latest follow-up (P < .001). A mean CS of 74 at early follow-up remained consistent with a mean CS of 66 at latest follow-up (P = .158), with only strength demonstrating a decrease over time (P < .001). An initial osseointegration rate of 81% at early follow-up decreased to 71% at latest follow-up with 74% of the shoulders demonstrating progressive radiolucent lines, resulting in a radiographic loosening rate of 31%. Of the 35 shoulders, 4 were revised (survival rate of 88%), of which 2 due to symptomatic aseptic loosening.

CONCLUSIONS: Uncemented fixation of an all-polyethylene central peg bone-ingrowth glenoid was associated with satisfactory clinical and radiographic scores, and an acceptable revision rate at mid- to long-term follow-up. Despite initial bony osseointegration in the majority of cases, radiographic loosening over time remains a concern, potentially jeopardizing long-lasting fixation of this type of glenoid component when implanted in an off-label uncemented fashion.