From the last 100 to the first 100-outcome after a manufacturer change in reverse fracture arthroplasty.

Purpose: If surgery is indicated for elderly patients suffering a proximal humerus fracture, reverse fracture arthroplasty became the preferred type of treatment due to its good and reliable outcomes over the last decade. Surgeons could choose from a wide range of implants and up to now there was no evaluation, if a change of the manufacturer affects patients` outcome.

Methods: The last 100 patients before and the first 100 after manufacturer change in reverse fracture arthroplasty were evaluated at a level one trauma center, all treated by only 3 senior shoulder surgeons. Clinical as well as radiographic outcome parameters were assessed, perioperative up to 24 months after surgery.

Results: Mean age in both groups was nearly 80 years with comparable distribution of gender and comorbidities. A trend to shorter duration of surgery was observed after the change, mainly according to an uncemented fixation of the stem. During follow-up no significant differences, beneficial as well as negative, could be observed regarding clinical and radiographic outcome.

Conclusion: A manufacturer change on the fly is possible without negative consequences for patients` outcome. Expertise of the whole OR-team as well as standardized training with the new implant seems to be a more important factor than a specific type of implant.