Between January 2000 and January 2013, 26 consecutive shoulders with chondrolysis were treated at our institution with shoulder arthroplasty. All shoulders had a prior arthroscopic procedure that predated a phase of rapid joint destruction. Twenty-three shoulders were followed up for a minimum of 2 years or until reoperation (mean, 4.0 years; range, 0.7-8.6 years). The mean age of the patients was 40 years (range, 21-58 years). Outcome measures included pain, range of motion, postoperative modified Neer ratings, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores, complications, and reoperations.
At most recent follow-up, only 14 of 23 shoulders had no or mild pain. Overall pain scores improved from 4.7 to 2.6 points. Abduction and external rotation improved significantly. Five shoulders required reoperation, 2 for glenoid loosening and 1 each for infection, instability, and stiffness. Subjectively, 8 patients rated their shoulder as much better, 7 as better, 4 the same, and 4 worse. Most recent American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores averaged 64 points (range, 20-95 points).
Shoulder arthroplasty for the treatment of chondrolysis improves pain and range of motion. However, patient satisfaction is variable. Early follow-up shows a higher than expected rate of reoperation (25%). Patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty for chondrolysis should be counseled appropriately about expectations after surgery.