CTA Humeral Head Implant for Cuff Tear Arthropathy

Rotator cuff muscles have two important functions. The rotator cuff muscles help raise the arm away from the side. They also help hold the shoulder joint in position and allow the more powerful deltoid muscle to raise the shoulder over the head. When these muscles have been torn, and the shoulder joint has become arthritic and painful, it can be difficult to raise the arm above shoulder level. This condition is called cuff tear arthropathy.

The Global^® Advantage^® CTA Humeral Head implant addresses surgical issues related to this arthritic condition.

What are the Components of the CTA Humeral Head Implant?

The CTA humeral head implant is a part of the DePuy Global Shoulder Collection. The implant attaches to the top of the metal stem that fits into the upper arm bone (humerus). The implant is designed to replace the ball portion of the shoulder joint called the humeral head.

The major problem faced by the surgeon during shoulder replacement surgery for cuff tear arthropathy is that the rotator cuff tendons cannot be repaired. They have become too scarred and weakened to effectively raise the arm from the side.

DePuy has designed the CTA Humeral Head to help patients with cuff tear arthropathy. The implant is designed to reduce friction, which may help the deltoid muscle raise the arm higher even if the rotator cuff tendons cannot be repaired.

The CTA Humeral Head was designed with a larger articular area than a standard humeral head to allow the implant to fit into the socket formed by the glenoid and the acromion. As the deltoid is used to raise the arm, the implant surface remains in contact with the acromion longer. This helps increase the amount that the arm can be raised using only the deltoid muscle.

Who is a candidate for surgery with the CTA Humeral Head Implant?

The CTA humeral head can be used in patients who have cuff tear arthropathy or other problems where the rotator cuff tendons cannot be repaired. In most cases, the surgeon will have a good idea that the CTA implant may be required, but the decision may also be made at the time of surgery.

Note

Only an orthopaedic surgeon trained in shoulder joint replacement can provide advice about whether shoulder joint replacement surgery and the Global Advantage Shoulder System are right for you. See your physician to learn more.

Individual results with any medical treatment may vary from the outcomes mentioned in this article. Please consult with your physician about the advisability of any medical treatment that you are considering.

Warnings and Precautions

The use of a glenoid prosthesis in patients with cuff tear arthropathy could increase the risk of glenoid component loosening due to non-anatomic loading conditions. The following conditions tend to adversely affect shoulder replacement implants: excessive patient weight, high levels of patient activity, likelihood of falls, poor bone stock, metabolic disorders, disabilities of other joints.

Adverse Events

The following are the most frequent adverse events after shoulder arthroplasty: change in position of the components, loosening of components, dislocation, infection, hematoma, pneumonia, and cardiovascular disorders.

Last Updated: 09/26/2008