Shoulder Arthroplasty - CAM 773

Description
General Information

  • It is an expectation that all patients receive care/services from a licensed clinician. All appropriate supporting documentation, including recent pertinent office visit notes, laboratory data, and results of any special testing must be provided. If applicable: All prior relevant imaging results and the reason that alternative imaging cannot be performed must be included in the documentation submitted.
  • The guideline criteria in the following sections were developed utilizing evidence-based and peer-reviewed resources from medical publications and societal organization guidelines as well as from widely accepted standard of care, best practice recommendations. 

Purpose
This guideline addresses elective, non-emergent shoulder arthroplasty (shoulder replacement) procedures, including total shoulder arthroplasty, reverse shoulder arthroplasty, resurfacing arthroplasty, partial shoulder replacement or hemiarthroplasty, and revision arthroplasty procedures.

Scope
Arthroplasty procedures are reserved for end stage arthritis of the shoulder joint, including functional loss of motion, pain, and disability. The choice of arthroplasty is dependent upon surgeon philosophy, experience, and skill. Successful outcome, regardless of procedure, is more likely with high volume (> 20 per year) shoulder specialists.

Special Note
In order for surgeries to be considered medically necessary there must be clear medical records that demonstrate a clear surgical plan that matches the request for surgery.

 

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Elective surgery of the shoulder may be considered if the following general criteria are met:

  • Clinical correlation of individual’s subjective complaints with objective exam findings and/or imaging (when applicable)
  • Individual has limited function (age-appropriate activities of active daily livings (ADLs), occupational, or athletic)
  • Individual does not have an active local or systemic infection
  • Individual does not have active, untreated drug dependency (including but not limited to narcotics, opioids, muscle relaxants) unless engaged in treatment
  • Individual has good oral hygiene and does not have major dental work scheduled or anticipated (ideally within one year of joint replacement; due to increased post-surgical infection risk)
  • Individual is medically stable and optimized for surgery, and any treatable comorbidities are adequately medically managed such as diabetes, nicotine addiction, or an excessively high BMI. There should also be a shared decision between the patient and physician to proceed with a total joint replacement when comorbidities exist as it pertains to the added risk of complications (1,2)

Clinical notes should address:

  • Symptom onset, duration, and severity
  • Loss of function and/or limitations
  • Type and duration of non-operative management modalities

Non-operative management, when required, will be specified within the clinical indications below and may include one or more of the following:

  • Physical therapy or properly instructed home exercise program
  • Rest or activity modification
  • Application of heat or ice
  • Pharmacologic treatment: oral/topical NSAIDS, acetaminophen, analgesics
  • Corticosteroid injections

Policy
INDICATIONS
Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (TSA)

Total Shoulder Arthroplasty may be necessary when the following criteria are met :

  • Evidence of painful osteoarthritis or inflammatory, non-infectious arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid) with functional limitations such as ADLs, employment, or recreation
  • Functional and intact rotator cuff and deltoid (adequate abduction strength); confirmed by physical examination, MRI, or CT scan(1,3,4):
  • Complete or near-complete loss of joint space* on axillary or AP X-rays (internal rotation and/or external rotation)*(1)

*NOTE: In those with bone-on-bone articulation on axillary or true AP X-rays, non-operative treatment is not required
NOTE: MRI should not be the primary imaging study to determine the extent of disease

  • Failure of at least 12 weeks of non-operative treatment that includes at least ONE of the following:
    • Physical therapy or properly instructed home exercise program
    • Rest or activity modification
    • Application of heat or ice
    • Pharmacologic treatment (oral/topical NSAIDS, acetaminophen, analgesics)
    • Corticosteroid injections
  • No cortisone injection into the joint within 12 weeks of surgery (1,5-8)
  • No prior arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder within 12 weeks of surgery (9,10)

Contraindications

  • Neurological disease resulting in complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS or its variants), Charcot arthropathy, or loss of deltoid or rotator cuff function
  • Active infection or any infection within 12 weeks of surgery:
    • History of prior shoulder joint infection without documentation that indolent infection has been eliminated (individual has been off antibiotics for a minimum of 6 weeks). Evidence of resolved infection should include laboratory work (serologies, including CBC with differential, ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), CRP (C-reactive protein), with or without blood cultures, soft tissue biopsy cultures, or synovial fluid aspiration (cultures, gram stain, cell count, differential, crystals). Cultures should be for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria (AFB, fungal), with special attention to the possibility of Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) formerly Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). (5,11)
  • Poor dental hygiene (e.g., tooth extraction should be performed prior to arthroplasty). Major dental work within 2 years after a joint replacement MAY lead to seeding of the implant and possible revision surgery. If possible, all dental work must be completed prior to shoulder arthroplasty as these procedures increase risk for infection
  • Any cortisone injection into the joint within 12 weeks of surgery (1,5-8)
  • Arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder within 12 weeks of surgery (9,10)

Hemiarthroplasty
Hemiarthroplasty may be necessary when the following criteria are met (3,4):

  • Acute 3 or 4-part fracture of the proximal humerus, particularly when open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is not feasible or contraindicated OR
  • Individual meets all of the criteria for a Total Shoulder Arthroplasty, as detailed above, or has avascular necrosis or osteonecrosis of the humeral head without advanced glenoid disease
  • No cortisone injection into the joint within 12 weeks of surgery (1,5-8)
  • No prior arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder within 12 weeks of surgery (9,10)

Contraindications

  • Any cortisone injection into the joint within 12 weeks of surgery (1,5-8)
  • Arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder within 12 weeks of surgery (9,10)
  • Neurologic disease resulting in CRPS or Charcot shoulder
  • Active infection within 12 weeks of surgery

Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (RTSA)
For the treatment of arthritis, irreparable rotator cuff tears or proximal humeral fractures (12,13):

Arthritis

RTSA may be indicated for the treatment of arthritis when all the following criteria are met  (12) :

  • Evidence of painful osteoarthritis or inflammatory, non-infectious arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid) with functional limitations (such as activities of daily living or employment or simple recreation)
  • Age > 60; requests for RTSA in individuals < 60 will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.* Complete or near-complete loss of joint space on axillary or AP x-rays (internal rotation and/or external rotation) OR radiographic evidence of advanced glenoid bone loss or excessive retroversion (In those with bone-on-bone articulation on axillary or true AP X-rays, non-operative treatment is not required.)
  • Non-repairable massive tears involving at least two tendons, substantial partial, OR focal full thickness rotator cuff tear with significant rotator cuff dysfunction (weakness, impingement signs on exam) AND intact deltoid muscle
  • Requests for RTSA for advanced glenohumeral arthritis with an intact rotator cuff will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis (14,15)
  • Failure of at least 12 weeks of non-operative treatment that includes at least one of the following:
    • Physical therapy or properly instructed home exercise program
    • Rest or activity modification
    • Application of heat or ice
    • Pharmacologic treatment: oral/topical NSAIDS, acetaminophen, analgesics
    • Corticosteroid injections
  • No cortisone injection into the joint within 12 weeks of surgery (1,5–8)
  • No prior arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder within 12 weeks of surgery (9,10)

*NOTE: RTSA has been found to be a reliable operation in younger individuals with improvement in pain, range of motion and strength, without a large number of early failures  (12,16,17)

Contraindications
  • Any cortisone injection into the joint within 12 weeks of surgery (1,5–8)
  • Active infection within 12 weeks of surgery (12)
  • Neurologic disease resulting in CRPS or Charcot shoulder (12)
  • Arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder within 12 weeks of surgery (9,10)
Proximal Humeral Fractures

RTSA may be indicated for the treatment of fractures when all the following criteria are met:

  • Acute 2, 3, or 4-part fractures of proximal humerus with or without concomitant tuberosity as evidence by radiographic findings OR painful malunion of proximal humerus fracture with rotator cuff dysfunction (weakness, impingement signs on exam)  (12)
  • Age > 60; requests for RTSA in individuals < 60 will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis

Rotator Cuff Tears

RTSA may be indicated for the treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears in the absence of arthritis when all the following criteria are met:

  • Non-repairable massive rotator cuff tear (12,18–20)
  • Intact deltoid function (12,20)
  • Inability to actively elevate the arm above the level of the shoulder (90 degrees) (i.e., pseudoparalysis); OR history of previous failed rotator cuff repair with persistent pain and functional impairment, particularly in the context of pseudoparalysis or massive irreparable tears (12,18)
  • Age > 60; requests for RTSA in individuals < 60 will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis (12,20)
  • Failure of at least 12 weeks of attempted physical therapy or properly instructed home exercise program unless there is worsening of symptoms (19–21)
  • No arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder within 12 weeks of surgery (9,10)
  • No cortisone injection into the joint within 12 weeks of surgery (1,5–8)
Contraindications
  • Any cortisone injection into the joint within 12 weeks of surgery (1,5–8)
  • Active infection within 12 weeks of surgery
  • Neurologic disease resulting in CRPS or Charcot shoulder
  • Arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder within 12 weeks of surgery (9,10)

NOTE: RTSA is a reasonable surgical option for irreparable rotator cuff repair without arthritis. However, caution should be exercised when offering RTSA to individuals without pseudoparalysis because they can have a higher complication and dissatisfaction rate (22,23)

Revision Arthroplasty (24,25)

See Contraindications*

There are six primary indications for revision shoulder arthroplasty:

  • Conversion of a hemiarthroplasty to a total shoulder arthroplasty
  • Conversion of a hemiarthroplasty to a reverse shoulder arthroplasty
  • Revision of a total shoulder arthroplasty to another total shoulder arthroplasty
  • Revision of a total shoulder arthroplasty to a reverse shoulder arthroplasty
  • Revision of a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty to another reverse shoulder arthroplasty
  • Revision of a total shoulder or reverse shoulder arthroplasty to a hemiarthroplasty
Conversion of a Hemiarthroplasty to a Total Shoulder Arthroplasty

May be necessary when all the following criteria are met:

  • Evidence of a prior hemiarthroplasty
  • Persistent pain and functional impairment that limits activities of daily living
  • Documentation of mechanical failure, or component failure/malposition OR negative infection evaluation (including CRP, ESR, with or without negative aspiration). If these markers are elevated, a clear statement by the treating surgeon is required regarding the surgical plan to rule out infection.
  • Clinical and radiographic evidence of intact rotator cuff (or repairable rotator cuff tear), including one of the following:
    • Radiographic evidence of failed humeral component, including aseptic loosening or periprosthetic fracture (documentation should include radiolucencies around cemented or uncemented components) OR
    • Clinical and radiographic evidence of glenoid articular cartilage disease (including progressive arthritis)
Conversion of a Hemiarthroplasty to a Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty

May be necessary when all the following criteria are met:

  • Evidence of a prior hemiarthroplasty
  • Persistent shoulder pain and functional loss impairment that limits activities of daily living
  • Documentation of mechanical failure, or component failure/malposition OR negative infection evaluation (including CRP, ESR, with or without negative aspiration). If these markers are elevated, a clear statement by the treating surgeon is required regarding the surgical plan to rule out infection.
  • Intact deltoid and intact axillary nerve function
  • Age > 60; requests for individuals < 60 will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis
  • Evidence of pseudoparalysis (inability to elevate arm) OR severe pain with elevation
Revision of a Total Shoulder Arthroplasty to Another Total Shoulder Arthroplasty

May be necessary when all the following criteria are met:

  • Evidence of prior total shoulder arthroplasty
  • Persistent shoulder pain and functional loss impairment that limits activities of daily living
  • Documentation of mechanical failure, or component failure/malposition OR negative infection evaluation (including CRP, ESR, with or without negative aspiration). If these markers are elevated, a clear statement by the treating surgeon is required regarding the surgical plan to rule out infection.
  • Intact deltoid and intact axillary nerve function
  • Clinical and radiographic evidence of intact rotator cuff (or repairable rotator cuff tear)
  • Radiographic evidence of failed humeral and/or glenoid component, including aseptic loosening or periprosthetic fracture
Revision of a Total Shoulder Arthroplasty to a Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty

May be necessary when all the following criteria are met:

  • Evidence of prior total shoulder arthroplasty
  • Persistent shoulder pain and functional loss impairment that limits activities of daily living
  • Documentation of mechanical failure, or component failure/malposition OR negative infection evaluation (including CRP, ESR, with or without negative aspiration). If these markers are elevated, a clear statement by the treating surgeon is required regarding the surgical plan to rule out infection.
  • Intact deltoid function confirmed by physical exam or imaging
  • Age > 60 (requests in individuals < 60 will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis)
  • Evidence of pseudoparalysis (inability to elevate arm) OR severe pain with elevation
Revision of a Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty to Another Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty

May be necessary when all the following criteria are met:

  • All cases should be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and include the following:
    • Evidence of prior reverse shoulder arthroplasty
    • Persistent pain and functional loss impairment that limits activities of daily living
    • Documentation of mechanical failure, or component failure/malposition OR negative infection evaluation (including CRP, ESR, with or without negative aspiration). If these markers are elevated, a clear statement by the treating surgeon is required regarding the surgical plan to rule out infection.
    • Radiographic evidence of failed humeral and/or glenoid component, including aseptic loosening or periprosthetic fracture
    • Intact deltoid muscle
Revision of a Total Shoulder or Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty to a Hemiarthroplasty

May be necessary when all the following criteria are met

  • All cases should be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and include the following:
    • Evidence of prior total shoulder or reverse shoulder arthroplasty
    • Persistent pain and functional loss impairment that limits activities of daily living
    • Documentation of mechanical failure, or component failure/malposition OR negative infection evaluation (including CRP, ESR, with or without negative aspiration). If these markers are elevated, a clear statement by the treating surgeon is required regarding the surgical plan to rule out infection.
    • Radiographic evidence of failed humeral and/or glenoid component, including aseptic loosening or periprosthetic fracture
    • Intact deltoid and intact axillary nerve
    • Insufficient glenoid bone to support a revision glenoid component
*Contraindications for Revision Arthroplasty
  • Active or recent history of infection
  • Neurogenic pain syndrome
  • Acromial fracture OR overly thin acromion from prior subacromial decompression
  • Severe osteoporosis confirmed by radiographic osteopenia, osteomalacia or severe osteoporosis on dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan
  • Non-functioning deltoid or axillary nerve injury/palsy
  • Any arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder within 12 weeks of surgery (9,10)
  • Any cortisone injection into the joint within 12 weeks of surgery (1,5–8)
Summary of Evidence

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (12) :

  • Study Design: This study is a comprehensive review of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) since its introduction in 1987 in Europe and 2004 in the United States.
  • Target Population: The study focuses on patients with various shoulder conditions, primarily those with rotator cuff tear arthropathy, but also includes other conditions like acute proximal humerus fracture, chronic locked dislocation, and glenohumeral arthritis with severe glenoid bone loss.
  • Key Factors: The study discusses the indications, contraindications, and clinical outcomes of RTSA. It highlights the high complication rates (19% to 68%) and the need for improvements in prosthesis design and surgical techniques to optimize treatment outcomes.

Glenohumeral osteoarthritis with intact rotator cuff treated with reverse shoulder arthroplasty (14) :

  • Study Design: This is a systematic review of the literature on reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) for glenohumeral osteoarthritis with an intact rotator cuff.
  • Target Population: The review includes studies on patients with osteoarthritis and an intact rotator cuff treated with primary RSA.
  • Key Factors: The review analyzes the outcomes and complication rates of RSA in this specific patient population. It finds that RSA provides optimal outcomes with low complication rates, even in the presence of altered glenoid morphology. The study emphasizes the importance of preoperative considerations such as glenoid retroversion and bone loss.

Complications and implant survivorship following primary reverse total shoulder arthroplasty in patients younger than 65 years (16) :

  • Study Design: This is a systematic review of the complications and implant survivorship following primary reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) in patients younger than 65 years.
  • Target Population: The review focuses on younger patients (under 65 years) who have undergone primary RTSA.
  • Key Factors: The study reports an overall complication rate of 18.6%, with reoperations at 14.4% and revisions at 11.2%. It finds that RTSA is safe and effective in younger patients, with clinical outcome scores showing significant and lasting improvements. The study also notes that complication, reoperation, and revision rates are similar to those seen in older patient cohorts.
Analysis of Evidnce

Shared Findings:

  • Effectiveness of RTSA: All three studies agree that RTSA is effective in improving clinical outcomes and providing pain relief for patients with various shoulder conditions, including rotator cuff tear arthropathy and osteoarthritis. (12,14,16)
  • Complication Rates: The studies highlight the presence of complications associated with RTSA. Familiari et al. report a wide range of complication rates (19% to 68%), (12) while Goldenberg et al. report an overall complication rate of 18.6%. (16) Heifner et al. also note low complication rates in their specific patient population. (14)
  • Importance of Preoperative Considerations: Both Heifner et al. and Familiari et al. emphasize the importance of preoperative considerations such as glenoid retroversion and bone loss in achieving optimal outcomes. (12,14)

Differing Findings:

  • Target Population: Familiari et al. focus on a broad range of shoulder conditions, (12) while Heifner et al. specifically review patients with osteoarthritis and an intact rotator cuff. (14) Goldenberg et al. focus on younger patients under 65 years. (16)
  • Complication Rates and Age: Goldenberg et al. specifically address the safety and effectiveness of RTSA in younger patients, noting that complication, reoperation, and revision rates are similar to those seen in older patient cohorts. (16) Familiari et al. and Heifner et al. do not specifically focus on age. (12,14)
  • Clinical Outcomes: While all studies report improvements in clinical outcomes, Goldenberg et al. highlight significant and lasting improvements in younger patients. (16) Heifner et al. emphasize optimal outcomes in patients with osteoarthritis and an intact rotator cuff. (14)

In summary, these studies collectively provide strong evidence supporting the effectiveness of RTSA in improving clinical outcomes and providing pain relief for patients with various shoulder conditions. They also highlight the importance of preoperative considerations and the presence of complications associated with the procedure. However, they differ in their focus on specific patient populations and the reported complication rates.

References

1.        Razmjou H, Christakis M, Nam D, et al. Assessing Appropriateness for Shoulder Arthroplasty Using a Shared Decision-Making Process. J Shoulder Elb Arthroplast. 2023;7:247154922311671. doi:10.1177/24715492231167104

2.        Seok HG, Park JJ, Park SG. Risk Factors for Periprosthetic Joint Infection after Shoulder Arthroplasty: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med. 2022;11(14). doi:10.3390/jcm11144245

3.        Hughes JD, Aibinder WR. Shoulder Joint Replacement.; 2024. Accessed November 9, 2025. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/treatment/shoulder-joint-replacement/#:~:text=Shoulder%20replacement%20surgery%20was%20first%20performed%20in%20the

4.        Mattei L, Mortera S, Arrigoni C, Castoldi F. Anatomic shoulder arthroplasty: an update on indications, technique, results and complication rates. Joints. 2015;3(2):72-77. doi:10.11138/jts/2015.3.2.072

5.        Iqbal A, Javaid MA, Sohail M, Khan F. A Literature Review of Cutibacterium Acnes: From Skin Commensal to Pathogen in Shoulder Surgery. Cureus. Published online September 15, 2024. doi:10.7759/cureus.69460

6.        Lucenti L, Panvini FMC, de Cristo C, et al. Do Preoperative Corticosteroid Injections Increase the Risk of Infection after Shoulder Arthroscopy or Shoulder Arthroplasty? A Systematic Review. Healthcare (Switzerland). 2024;12(5). doi:10.3390/healthcare12050543

7.        Stadecker M, Gu A, Ramamurti P, et al. Risk of revision based on timing of corticosteroid injection prior to shoulder arthroplasty. Bone Joint J. 2022;104-B(5):620-626. doi:10.1302/0301-620X.104B5.BJJ-2021-0024.R3

8.        Werner BC, Cancienne JM, Burrus MT, Griffin JW, Gwathmey FW, Brockmeier SF. The timing of elective shoulder surgery after shoulder injection affects postoperative infection risk in Medicare patients. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2016;25(3):390-397. doi:10.1016/j.jse.2015.08.039

9.        Malik AT, Morris J, Bishop JY, Neviaser AS, Khan SN, Cvetanovich GL. Undergoing an Arthroscopic Procedure Prior to Shoulder Arthroplasty is Associated With Greater Risk of Prosthetic Joint Infection. Arthroscopy: The Journal of Arthroscopic & Related Surgery. 2021;37(6):1748-1754.e1. doi:10.1016/j.arthro.2021.01.013

10.      Wright-Chisem J, Apostolakos JM, Dines JS, et al. The impact of prior ipsilateral arthroscopy on infection rates after shoulder arthroplasty. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2021;30(7):1596-1602. doi:10.1016/j.jse.2020.09.019

11.      Elston MJ, Dupaix JP, Opanova MI, Atkinson RE. Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Proprionibacterium acnes) and Shoulder Surgery. Hawaii J Health Soc Welf. 2019;78(11 Suppl 2):3-5. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31773103

12.      Familiari F, Rojas J, Doral MN, Huri G, McFarland EG. Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. EFORT Open Rev. 2018;3(2):58-69. doi:10.1302/2058-5241.3.170044

13.      Hermana S, Rednam M. Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty. StatPearls. Published online March 13, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK574545/

14.      Heifner JJ, Kumar AD, Wagner ER. Glenohumeral osteoarthritis with intact rotator cuff treated with reverse shoulder arthroplasty: a systematic review. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2021;30(12):2895-2903. doi:10.1016/j.jse.2021.06.010

15.      Nazzal EM, Reddy RP, Como M, et al. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty with preservation of the rotator cuff for primary glenohumeral osteoarthritis has similar outcomes to anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty and reverse shoulder arthroplasty for cuff arthropathy. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2023;32(6):S60-S68. doi:10.1016/j.jse.2023.02.005

16.      Goldenberg BT, Samuelsen BT, Spratt JD, Dornan GJ, Millett PJ. Complications and implant survivorship following primary reverse total shoulder arthroplasty in patients younger than 65 years: a systematic review. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2020;29(8):1703-1711. doi:10.1016/j.jse.2020.02.004

17.      Otto RJ, Clark RE, Frankle MA. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty in patients younger than 55 years: 2- to 12-year follow-up. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2017;26(5):792-797. doi:10.1016/j.jse.2016.09.051

18.      Weber S, Chahal J. Management of Rotator Cuff Injuries. Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2020;28(5):e193-e201. doi:10.5435/JAAOS-D-19-00463

19.      Christensen BH, Andersen KS, Rasmussen S, Andreasen EL, Nielsen LM, Jensen SL. Enhanced function and quality of life following 5 months of exercise therapy for patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears - An intervention study. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2016;17(1). doi:10.1186/s12891-016-1116-6

20.      Juhan T, Stone M, Jalali O, et al. Irreparable rotator cuff tears: Current treatment options. Orthop Rev (Pavia). 2019;11(3):123-128. doi:10.4081/or.2019.8146

21.      Shepet KH, Liechti DJ, Kuhn JE. Nonoperative treatment of chronic, massive irreparable rotator cuff tears: a systematic review with synthesis of a standardized rehabilitation protocol. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2021;30(6):1431-1444. doi:10.1016/j.jse.2020.11.002

22.      Monir JG, Tams C, Wright TW, Parsons M, King JJ, Schoch BS. Preoperative factors associated with loss of range of motion after reverse shoulder arthroplasty. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2021;30(10):e621-e628. doi:10.1016/j.jse.2021.02.010

23.      Virk MS, Nicholson GP, Romeo AA. Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears Without Arthritis Treated With Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty. Open Orthop J. 2018;10(1):296-308. doi:10.2174/1874325001610010296

24.      Harrison AK, Knudsen ML, Braman JP. Hemiarthroplasty and Total Shoulder Arthroplasty Conversion to Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med. 2020;13(4):501-508. doi:10.1007/s12178-020-09649-5

25.      Mauch F, Huth J. Revision of anatomic shoulder arthroplasty. Orthopadie. 2023;52(2):137-143. doi:10.1007/s00132-022-04337-3

Coding Section

Code Number Description
CPT 23470 Surgical procedure to reconstruct the shoulder joint, often used to restore function and alleviate pain
  23472 Surgical procedure to reconstruct the shoulder joint, often used to treat severe shoulder injuries or conditions
  23473 Revision and reconstruction of the shoulder joint
  23474 Revision and reconstruction of the shoulder joint, ensuring accurate billing for this specific surgical procedure

Procedure and diagnosis codes on Medical Policy documents are included only as a general reference tool for each policy. They may not be all-inclusive.

This medical policy was developed through consideration of peer-reviewed medical literature generally recognized by the relevant medical community, U.S. FDA approval status, nationally accepted standards of medical practice and accepted standards of medical practice in this community and other nonaffiliated technology evaluation centers, reference to federal regulations, other plan medical policies, and accredited national guidelines.

"Current Procedural Terminology © American Medical Association. All Rights Reserved" 

History From 2026 Forward

09/10/2026 Annual review, updating policy for clarity and consistency. Updating general statement, special note, rationale, and references.
04/01/2026 NEW POLICY

 

 

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