Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty after failed deltoid flap reconstruction

Hypothesis

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) yields unsatisfactory results after deltoid flap reconstruction due to defect of the deltoid muscle.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the outcome of 19 patients after failed deltoid flap reconstruction treated with RSA. Follow-up was after a mean of 4.5 years.

Results

Seven patients (37 %) had nine postoperative complications requiring totally 16 revision surgeries. Nonetheless, at latest follow-up, 17 patients had no or mild, two had moderate, and none had severe pain. Before RSA; 13 patients had a pseudoparesis. At latest follow-up, none of the patients had a pseudoparesis. Mean flexion was 121° (90°–160°). Abduction strength averaged 2.3 kg (range 0–5.4 kg). The mean constant score was 70 % (range 28–98 %). Of the 19 patients, 15 were very satisfied with the outcome, four were satisfied, and none was dissatisfied. The mean overall subjective shoulder value was 73 % (30–95 %) of the value of a normal shoulder.

Conclusions

Despite of a localized defect of the deltoid muscle after deltoid flap repair, RSA can reliably be associated with a satisfactory outcome.