Results of a New Uncemented Glenoid Component

Summary

We report preliminary results using a new uncemented component: the Aequalis metal-backed glenoid (Tornier). The originality of this implant lies in a new anchorage device that uses an expanded screw system. There are two such screws which insert through the tray, and each consists of three hooked leaflets that open progressively into the cancellous bone as the screw thread is turned. The two main advantages of this implant are: (a) a strong primary bone fixation which allows a secondary bone ingrowth in the metal tray; (b) a minimum thickness of metal for the tray, avoiding lateralisation and overstuffing of the joint. We operated on 15 shoulders in 15 patients (9 osteoarthritis, 3 posttraumatic arthritis, 2 rheumatoid arthritis, and 1 osteonecrosis) with this new uncemented glenoid component and reviewed the results at a minimum 2-year follow-up (average 25.9 months). The absolute Constant score increased from 18.7 points (10–32 points) to 69.4 points postoperatively (49–82 points). All the glenoid components were osteointegrated without lucent lines, except in two cases (14%). We report one complication: an early traumatic disassociation after anterior dislocation with rupture of the subscapularis 6 weeks postoperation. This series compares favourably with other published series and justifies our continuing with the component.