Shoulder replacement surgery involves careful consideration and planning. However, for individuals who have exhausted all other treatment choices, it could be the most effective way to regain range of motion, relieve pain, and allow you to resume an active lifestyle. Most disorders, such as arthritis, significant fractures, or a combination of muscles can cause severe discomfort and joint degradation, necessitating a shoulder replacement. Understanding the cause and nature of your shoulder pain will enable Dr. J. Michael Bennett to prescribe the best treatment option for you. Three types of shoulder replacements are frequently explored, depending on the degree and kind of disease:
Total shoulder replacement
Traditional shoulder arthroplasty, also known as total shoulder replacement surgery, is widely regarded as the most dependable surgical choice for people seeking to reclaim movement and function from a severely wounded or damaged shoulder. In a total shoulder replacement, the ball and socket elements of the shoulder are replaced. Prosthetics are implanted, allowing the patient to have a greater range of motion. This operation is frequently advised for those suffering from severe shoulder pain and arthritis, but it is not a good option for those who have a damaged rotator cuff and intend to remain active.
Reverse total shoulder replacement
The doctor replaces a broken shoulder joint with metal and plastic components that invert the shape of the shoulder in a reverse complete shoulder replacement. Patients who have had an unsuccessful total shoulder replacement are the most likely candidates for the operation. The shoulder’s ball and socket locations are reversed during this operation. The top ball of the skeletal humorous is replaced with a socket prosthesis, and the patient’s socket is subsequently fitted with a prosthetic ball. Since the surgery alters the joint rotation center, a reverse shoulder replacement is a reasonable solution for those with a badly affected rotator cuff, mainly if the injury resulted from cuff tear arthropathy (an arthritic condition).
Partial shoulder replacementÂ
This procedure only requires a partial replacement of the damaged shoulder’s parts. Instead of replacing the ball and socket, only the humeral head is removed and replaced with a prosthetic ball. The natural socket is still present. Depending on its condition, the socket may be polished or modified to enhance movement.
After a shoulder replacement surgery
With any shoulder replacement option, you will be able to leave the hospital the next day. Anesthesia advances have improved postoperative pain control and reduced the demand for pain medicines. By the second week, the pain should have subsided, and you should be able to move your shoulder more freely. You will perform passive range-of-motion exercises four to six weeks after surgery. Following this, an active range of motion and strengthening activities will be performed. After three months, most people have a decent function and continue to develop their shoulders. Both techniques are highly effective at relieving pain. It would help if you had a near-normal range of motion after the anatomic treatment. With a reverse shoulder replacement, you will most likely lose 10-20% of your flexion and extension, particularly in reaching your back.
If your daily activities or range of motion are substantially hampered by shoulder pain, it may be time to consider shoulder replacement surgery. Contact J. Michael Bennett, MD, PA today or schedule an appointment online.
