Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty for Rotator Cuff Deficiency

Rotator cuff disease is one of the more common causes of shoulder pain, but there still is some dilemma with management of large or massive tears. When all other options short of a joint replacement have been explored, the reverse shoulder arthroplasty serves as a reliable and predictable treatment option. The surgeon must incorporate a detailed history, physical examination, and imaging workup when deciding how best to manage these patients with rotator cuff deficiency. Knowledge of implant specifics and options regarding the glenoid and humeral side is crucial to a successful operation. Newer implant technology and surgical techniques have additionally provided options to avoid some of the complications seen with the earliest reverse shoulder implants. When reverse shoulder arthroplasty is performed for the properly indicated patient, it can be done with predictable success and low complication rates. In this manuscript, we will provide some tips to assist in how to best manage rotator cuff deficient patients with reverse shoulder arthroplasty.