Research article

Cadaveric and three-dimensional computed tomography study of the morphology of the scapula with reference to reversed shoulder prosthesis

Carlos Torrens¹ , Monica Corrales¹ , Gemma Gonzalez¹ , Alberto Solano² and Enrique Cáceres¹

¹  Orthopaedic Department, Hospital del Mar de Barcelona, Passeig Marítim 25-29, 08003 Barcelona, Spain

²  Department of Radiology, Hospital del Mar de Barcelona, Passeig Marítim 25-29, 08003 Barcelona, Spain

author email corresponding author email

Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research 2008, 3:49doi:10.1186/1749-799X-3-49

Published:	10 October 2008

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze the morphology of the scapula with reference to the glenoid component implantation in reversed shoulder prosthesis, in order to improve primary fixation of the component.

Methods

Seventy-three 3-dimensional computed tomography of the scapula and 108 scapular dry specimens were analyzed to determine the anterior and posterior length of the glenoid neck, the angle between the glenoid surface and the upper posterior column of the scapula and the angle between the major craneo-caudal glenoid axis and the base of the coracoid process and the upper posterior column.

Results

The anterior and posterior length of glenoid neck was classified into two groups named "short-neck" and "long-neck" with significant differences between them. The angle between the glenoid surface and the upper posterior column of the scapula was also classified into two different types: type I (mean 50°–52°) and type II (mean 62,50°–64°), with significant differences between them (p < 0,001). The angle between the major craneo-caudal glenoid axis and the base of the coracoid process averaged 18,25° while the angle with the upper posterior column of the scapula averaged 8°.

Conclusion

Scapular morphological variability advices for individual adjustments of glenoid component implantation in reversed total shoulder prosthesis. Three-dimensional computed tomography of the scapula constitutes an important tool when planning reversed prostheses implantation.