Over recent years, the number of shoulder arthroplasties, particularly reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA), have increased significantly, secondary to aging population, advancements in prosthetic designs, and expanded indications, leading to a corresponding rise in associated complications. Choosing the arthroplasty type depends on the underlying pathology and patient factors.
In addition to general arthroplasty complications (e.g., periprosthetic fractures, infections, loosening), certain complications are specific to the type of arthroplasty performed or occur with higher prevalence depending on the procedure.
Radiographic evaluation remains the main imaging modality in follow-up of shoulder arthroplasty, owing to its availability and non susceptibility to hardware artifacts. The most commonly used radiographic views include anteroposterior, scapular Y, and axillary views. Familiarity with the radiological features of these complications is crucial, as early and accurate detection is essential for diagnosis and management.