Editorial Commentary: Is Shoulder Joint Preservation an Endangered Species? Let's Save the Glenoid.

Abstract

Joint preservation in young patients has always been the mission of arthroscopists worldwide since Bob Jackson visited Dr. Watanabe and brought the arthroscope to North America. In patients with shoulder glenohumeral arthritis, joint preservation is paramount and advanced arthroscopic techniques are of significant benefit. A recent publication shows 77% satisfactory outcomes, provides critical details on patient selection, and shows that a cohort of (younger) patients with shoulder osteoarthritis may do well after isolated glenoid resurfacing. A benefit of shoulder glenohumeral resurfacing is that shoulder replacement surgery, if required, could be delayed until a more appropriate age.