Shoulder Replacement

If you suffer from chronic shoulder pain and mobility issues, consider shoulder replacement surgery. The procedure has been a life-changer for many patients who have tried several conservative, nonsurgical treatments and still have pain. Here is an overhead look at the conditions and injuries that shoulder replacement surgery treats, how to determine when it is necessary, the types of shoulder replacement surgeries available, and what to expect during and after the procedure.

What Conditions and Injuries Does Shoulder Replacement Treat?

Shoulder surgery is typically considered for individuals experiencing severe shoulder pain and dysfunction that have not responded to conservative treatments, such as rest, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, corticosteroid injections, and physical therapy. Common conditions treated with a shoulder replacement include:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Post-traumatic arthritis
• Rotator cuff tear arthropathy
• Avascular necrosis
• Severe fractures

How Do I Know When A Shoulder Replacement Will Help?

Determining if you need shoulder replacement surgery involves a thorough evaluation by an orthopedic specialist. Your orthopedic surgeon will use advanced imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to assess the damage to your shoulder joint and determine the best course of action. You may need surgery if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Persistent shoulder pain that interferes with daily activities and sleep
• Limited range of motion or weakness in the shoulder
• Ineffectiveness of nonsurgical treatments (medication, physical therapy, injections)

What are the Various Types of Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

There are several types of advanced shoulder replacement surgeries, each tailored to specific conditions and patient needs:

Watch Dr. Andrew Kersten discuss the advances in shoulder replacement surgery technology:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ByZ1goPQgM 

Total Shoulder Replacement (Arthroplasty)

Total shoulder replacement involves replacing both the ball (humeral head) and the socket (glenoid) of the shoulder joint with prosthetic components. The procedure aims to alleviate pain and restore function in the shoulder joint.

Conditions Treated:

• Severe osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Post-traumatic arthritis
• Avascular necrosis
• Complex shoulder fractures
• Failed previous shoulder surgeries

Partial Shoulder Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty) 

Partial shoulder replacement involves replacing only the shoulder joint's ball (humeral head) with a prosthetic component. This procedure is suitable for patients whose damage is limited to the humeral head, while the socket (glenoid) remains relatively healthy.

Conditions Treated:

• Severe humeral head fractures
• Avascular necrosis (limited to humeral head)
• Arthritis limited to the humeral head
• Failed conservative treatments

Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Reverse replacement surgery involves reversing the normal anatomy of the shoulder by placing the ball component on the scapula and the socket on the humeral head. This design allows other muscles, such as the deltoid, to compensate for a damaged rotator cuff, providing stability and movement to the shoulder joint.

Conditions Treated:

• Severe rotator cuff damage
• Cuff tear arthropathy
• Failed conventional shoulder replacement
• Severe shoulder fractures
• Chronic shoulder dislocations
• Rheumatoid arthritis with cuff tear

How Do I Prepare for Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

Proper preparation is essential for a successful shoulder replacement surgery. Steps to take include:

• Medical Evaluation: Comprehensive health assessment to ensure you are fit for surgery.
• Presurgical Instructions: Follow your surgeon's guidelines, which may include fasting before the procedure.
• Home Reparation: Arrange for assistance during the initial recovery period and prepare your home to accommodate limited mobility.

What Should I Expect During the Surgery?

Shoulder replacement surgery typically involves the following steps:

• Anesthesia: General anesthesia or regional nerve block to ensure a pain-free procedure.
• Incision: A surgical incision is made to access the shoulder joint.
• Replacement: Damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with prosthetic components.
• Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples.

How Long Is Recovery?

Recovery from shoulder replacement surgery is different for each patient, but typically involves several phases:

• Hospital Stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for 1-2 days after surgery.
• Physical Therapy: Begins shortly after surgery to restore strength and mobility.
• Pain Management: Medications and techniques to manage postoperative pain.
• Recovery Timeline: Full recovery can take several months, with improvements in pain relief and function typically noticeable within the first few weeks.

Patients often experience significant improvements in pain, range of motion, and overall quality of life following shoulder replacement surgery.

At EmergeOrtho-Blue Ridge Region, our team of expert orthopedic surgeons brings extensive experience and expertise to shoulder replacement procedures. We are committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care to help you achieve the best possible outcomes. Ready to take the next step? Request an appointment with one of our experienced surgeons today and start your path to pain-free living.

Author

Andrew Kersten, MD Asheville, NC based, dual board-certified in Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Sports medicine, specializing in sports injuries, arthroscopy and joint replacement for shoulder, elbow, and knee conditions.