The effect of different methods of preparation of glenoid bone on displacement and deformation of a glenoid component under eccentric loading was investigated in a series of scapulae of cadavera. Handburring of the osseous surface was associated with less displacement and deformation than simple removal of cartilage with a curet. Reaming resulted in the least displacement and deformation. Substantial posterior deficiency of the bone of the reamed glenoid was not associated with significant increases of displacement and deformation.