[Total inverted shoulder prosthesis and rotator cuff insufficiency: evaluation and determination of anatomical parameters predictive of good functional outcome in 21 shoulders].

OBJECTIVE

Evaluation of the functional results of the Delta 3 inverted shoulder prosthesis and determination of a radio-anatomical index predictive of best functional outcome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 19 patients (21 shoulders). Clinical (pain, satisfaction, amplitudes, Constant index) and radiological (acromio-epiphyseal distance) evaluation at a mean follow up of 13.6 months.

RESULTS

Outcomes concerning pain, quality of life and Constant index were good and similar to other series. Few complications were observed. An increase of the acromio-epiphyseal distance of 33 to 50% compared to the non operated side is associated with a good functional result.

CONCLUSION

Our results confirm those of other series and show that Delta 3 inverted prosthesis is an efficient therapeutic alternative in arthropathy with rotator cuff tears. Rehabilitation is fairly short and easy. The increase of the acromio-epiphyseal distance determines the tension of the deltoid muscle and could predict a favorable outcome.