The Glenoid Center Point: A Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study of Normal Scapular Anatomy

Using 10 normal cadaveric glenoids, Matsen and colleagues described the anatomic concept and clinical use of the glenoid centering point during shoulder arthroplasty. In the study reported here, we used magnetic resonance imaging scans of 50 patients with nonarthritic conditions of the glenohumeral joint to evaluate the relationship between the glenoid center line and the scapular neck. Results from this larger group of patients confirmed that a reproducible anatomic relationship of the glenoid centering line and the centering point on the anterior glenoid neck exists and can be used to restore normal anatomy in cases of posterior glenoid wear. An understanding of this anatomic relationship vis-à-vis shoulder arthroplasty may aid in recreating a normal glenoid version.