The metal-backed glenoid component in rheumatoid disease: eight- to fourteen-year follow-up.

Hypothesis: We believe the variable reported survivorship of the metal-backed glenoid is related to the design of the component. This study reports the outcome and survivorship of the uncemented glenoid in rheumatoid patients with an intact or repairable rotator cuff at surgery, and considers the key design features that may predict longevity of this component.

Method: Forty-six shoulders in 39 patients (31 women), with a mean age of 55 years (range, 35-86 years) received a total shoulder replacement with a screw-fixed porous coated metal-back glenoid.