From the last 100 to the first 100-outcome after a manufacturer change in reverse fracture arthroplasty.

PURPOSE

If surgery is indicated for elderly patients suffering a proximal humerus fracture, reverse fracture arthroplasty became the preferred type of treatment due to its good and reliable outcomes over the last decade. Surgeons could choose from a wide range of implants and up to now there was no evaluation, if a change of the manufacturer affects patients` outcome.

METHODS

The last 100 patients before and the first 100 after manufacturer change in reverse fracture arthroplasty were evaluated at a level one trauma center, all treated by only 3 senior shoulder surgeons. Clinical as well as radiographic outcome parameters were assessed, perioperative up to 24 months after surgery.

RESULTS

Mean age in both groups was nearly 80 years with comparable distribution of gender and comorbidities. A trend to shorter duration of surgery was observed after the change, mainly according to an uncemented fixation of the stem. During follow-up no significant differences, beneficial as well as negative, could be observed regarding clinical and radiographic outcome.

CONCLUSION

A manufacturer change on the fly is possible without negative consequences for patients` outcome. Expertise of the whole OR-team as well as standardized training with the new implant seems to be a more important factor than a specific type of implant.