Resurfacing hemiarthroplasty of the shoulder for patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

BACKGROUND

This study reports the outcome of resurfacing hemiarthroplasty (RHA) in a cohort of patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) affecting the shoulder joint

METHODS

Fourteen uncemented RHA procedures were performed for 11 consecutive patients who required surgery because of JIA. Mean age at surgery was 36.4 years. Mean clinical follow-up was 10.4 years (range, 5.8-13.9 years). A significant humeral head defect (up to 40% surface area) was found in 5 shoulders and filled with autograft from the distal clavicle or femoral head allograft.

RESULTS

At latest follow-up, no patient required revision. There was excellent relief from pain. The mean Oxford Shoulder Score and Constant-Murley Score improved significantly. No shoulder had a poor outcome, and 6 had a very good or excellent outcome. Worse outcome was associated with an intraoperative finding of significant humeral head erosion. Two shoulders required early arthroscopic subacromial decompression, but there were no other reoperations. There were no instances of radiographic implant loosening or proximal migration. Painless glenoid erosion was seen in 5 shoulders but was not associated with worse outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

The midterm results of RHA for JIA are at least comparable to those for stemmed hemiarthroplasty, with the added benefit of bone conservation.