Work

Demographic and anatomic predictors of glenoid morphology: a systematic review

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: Background: The glenohumeral (GH) joint displays diverse glenoid morphology or wear patterns that affect joint alignment, stability, and function. These morphological variations are influenced by sex, ethnicity, and height, potentially limiting the effectiveness of standardized prosthetics. While previous studies have linked glenoid shape to shoulder instability and bone loss, the demographic and anatomic predictors for glenoid morphology or specific glenoid wear patterns remain unclear. This review aims to identify key demographic and anatomical predictors of glenoid morphology to inform surgical planning and improve total shoulder arthroplasty outcomes. Methods: We performed a comprehensive literature search of MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science with a search cutoff date of August 2024. We included the studies that addressed demographic and anatomic predictors, such as age, sex, height, hand dominance, laterality, and glenoid morphology. A methodological quality assessment was conducted independently as per standardized set of criteria known as Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. Results: We retrieved a total of nine studies that reported on demographic and anatomic predictors and glenoid morphology. Seven of these studies were of good quality, while two were of fair quality. Glenoid size was consistently larger in males and positively correlated with age, height, and weight. We also observed that subtype B2 glenoid is linked to increased humeral osteophyte length in primary GH osteoarthritis. Conclusion: Age, male sex, and height are associated with increased glenoid dimensions and version, while subtype B2 glenoid correlates with advanced GH osteoarthritis and bone loss. B2 glenoid present greater surgical challenges requiring individualized approaches. Larger studies are needed to confirm these predictors and explore genetic and molecular links to disease severity.

Source: JSES Reviews Reports and Techniques

DOI: 10.1016/j.xrrt.2026.100676

Authors: Ravi Prakash, Andrea L. Aagesen, Nashra Javed, Elizabeth L. Yanik, Nitin B. Jain

Institutions: University of Michigan, Michigan Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Washington University in St. Louis, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Shoulder Injury and Treatment

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,370