reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for the treatment of synovial chondromatosis: a case report and review of the literature

synovial chondromatosis affecting the glenohumeral joint is rare. treatment primarily consists of arthroscopic loose body removal and synovectomy. shoulder arthroplasty has been mentioned in the literature as a treatment option for patients with coexisting arthritis, although the results have been underreported. the case of an 84-year-old man with long standing synovial chondromatosis of the shoulder resulting in severe degenerative disease is presented. the patient was treated with a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, loose body removal, and a complete synovectomy. three and six month follow up results have shown a decrease in the visual analogue scale for pain, improved range of motion, and no radiographic evidence of disease recurrence. reverse total shoulder arthroplasty is a viable treatment option for synovial chondromatosis in patients with coexisting glenohumeral arthritis demonstrating good short term outcomes.