Aseptic loosening of the glenoid component is the most common complication in anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty, and improper placement of the glenoid component is an important yet controllable cause of this complication. The literature shows that even experienced surgeons are often inaccurate when using radiographs, CT scans, and standard instrumentation for positioning of the glenoid component, particularly in shoulder joints with more severe pathology. The surgeon can more accurately place the glenoid component in the desired location using advanced techniques and tools, such as three-dimensional preoperative planning and templating, patient-specific instrumentation, and computer-assisted navigation. However, although these tools improve the accuracy of placement of the glenoid component, further work is needed to define its optimal position in cases of acquired and/or developmental bone loss.
