Arthroplasty vs. Hemiarthroplasty

There were only two studies of sufficient quality to meet our inclusion criteria comparing total shoulder arthroplasty to hemiarthroplasty.^{18, 25} The largest of these studies reported that global health assessment scores and pain relief were statistically significantly better after total shoulder arthroplasty.  Function and quality of life outcome measures in both studies showed no statistically significant differences between groups.   No total shoulder arthroplasty required revision to hemiarthroplasty.  However, 14% of patients treated with a hemiarthroplasty required revision to a total shoulder arthroplasty because of progressive glenoid arthrosis and pain.  This difference in revision rates must be considered when contemplating shoulder arthroplasty and the possibility of a second operative exposure.