Which surgical approach was used for the shoulder arthroplasty?

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Access to the shoulder joint during arthroplasty is most effectively achieved through the deltopectoral interval, the space between the deltoid and pectoralis major. This route exposes the glenohumeral joint well while keeping the deltoid muscle intact, which helps preserve shoulder strength after surgery. The cephalic vein often runs in this interval, so it’s typically protected and retracted rather than cut. Because this approach provides ample access to both the humeral head and the glenoid without splitting the deltoid, it is the standard choice for most total shoulder arthroplasties.

Other approaches involve splitting the deltoid muscle or working more directly over the top of the shoulder. These can offer different exposures but carry higher risks of deltoid dysfunction or nerve injury, making them less favorable as the routine option.