The effect of humeral tray thickness on glenohumeral loads in a reverse shoulder 'smart' implant.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to observe the effects of changing humeral tray thickness on the resultant of intraoperative glenohumeral joint loads using a load-sensing system (LSS).

Methods: An rTSA was performed on fresh frozen full-body cadaver shoulders by using an internal proprietary LSS on the humeral side. The glenohumeral loads (Newtons) and the direction of the resultant force applied on the implant were recorded during four standard positions (External rotation, Extension, Abduction, Flexion) and three "complex" positions of Activity Daily Life ("behind back", "overhead reach" and "across chest").