A narrative review of treatment strategies for major glenoid defects during primary reverse shoulder arthroplasty, with a focus on the use of structural bone graft

Structural glenoid defects are common during primary reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) and are often associated with poor outcomes. The lack of pre-operative imaging protocols for determining the depth and degree of glenoid wear hinders our ability to accurately plan and correct these defects. Although bone grafting has been reported to be effective in reducing glenoid wear during RSA, there is limited information on when to utilise it and how to prepare the graft. We conducted this review to assess the evidence for the management of glenoid defects, with an emphasis on bone grafts to treat structural glenoid bone loss in primary RSA patients

Assessment and management of shoulder pain at primary care level

Most patients with shoulder pain will initially visit their community health centre, private general practitioner or family physician, with various levels of experience in the assessment and management of shoulder conditions. Shoulder conditions will range from early, simple ailments that can be treated in the primary care setting, to post-traumatic injuries and complex pathologies requiring the expertise of an orthopaedic surgeon or a fellowship-trained shoulder surgeon. Correct assessment of the patient’s shoulder condition at the index consultation is a prerequisite for appropriate management. This article sets out straightforward guidelines to help general practitioners confidently identify the patient’s source of shoulder pain and initiate an appropriate management plan at primary care level. Criteria for urgent and elective referral for specialist care are also outlined