Bipolar fresh osteochondral allograft of the shoulder

Abstract

Purpose: to describe an original technique and preliminary results of bipolar fresh osteochondral allograft implantation for the treatment of end-stage glenohumeral osteoarthritis. Methods: three patients underwent bipolar fresh osteochondral allograft implantation to the shoulder. Clinical and radiographical evaluations were carried out periodically through to final follow-up. Results: constant Score increased from 38.3 ± 2.9 preoperatively to 78.7 ± 16.2 at 12 months, 72.3 ±15.3 at 24 months, and 59.3 ± 22.0 at 34 months. Arthritis and partial reabsorption of the implanted surfaces were evident radiographically. Conclusions: the clinical results obtained in these patients seem to support the applicability of bipolar fresh osteochondral allograft implantation in the shoulder in subjects with severe post-traumatic arthritis and intact rotator cuff. The development of arthritis of the implanted surfaces, while not impacting the clinical result, is a cause of concern. Level of evidence: Level III, retrospective cohort study.