Prospective comparison of 66 total shoulder arthroplasties (35 flat-back vs 31 convex-back keeled cemented glenoids, all primary osteoarthritis) using fluoroscopically controlled radiographs and the Molé radiolucent line scoring system immediately postoperatively and at 2 years, asking whether glenoid back-surface geometry affects periglenoid radiolucency.
When selecting a cemented keeled polyethylene glenoid, convex-back geometry provides measurably better immediate and short-term faceplate fixation than flat-back geometry — but expect radiolucency progression at a similar rate regardless of design, so early radiographic superiority does not necessarily translate to reduced long-term loosening without further follow-up data.
Prospective comparison of 66 total shoulder arthroplasties (35 flat-back vs 31 convex-back keeled cemented glenoids, all primary osteoarthritis) using fluoroscopically controlled radiographs and the Molé radiolucent line scoring system immediately postoperatively and at 2 years, asking whether glenoid back-surface geometry affects periglenoid radiolucency.
When selecting a cemented keeled polyethylene glenoid, convex-back geometry provides measurably better immediate and short-term faceplate fixation than flat-back geometry — but expect radiolucency progression at a similar rate regardless of design, so early radiographic superiority does not necessarily translate to reduced long-term loosening without further follow-up data.