Anatomic total shoulder and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty are excellent treatment options for a various glenohumeral joint pathologies. Specific shoulder conditions require a tailored approach with each presenting unique technical challenges. Although infrequent, complications in shoulder arthroplasty can be complex to manage and the cause of significant patient morbidity. The presented cases provide a brief overview of the diagnostic dilemmas and treatment options for common and uncommon disorders encountered in shoulder arthroplasty.