Anterior deltoid muscle reflection using a deltopectoral approach is safe and does not influence outcome of reverse shoulder arthroplasty

Abstract

Background: The deltopectoral approach is well accepted for shoulder arthroplasty procedures. The extended deltopectoral approach with detachment of the anterior deltoid from the clavicle allows increased joint exposure and can protect the anterior deltoid from traction injury. The efficacy of this extended approach has been demonstrated in anatomic total shoulder replacement surgery. However, this has not been shown in reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the safety of the extended deltopectoral approach in RSA. The secondary aim was to evaluate the performance of the deltoid reflection approach in terms of complications and surgical, functional..