Shoulder replacement surgery, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to alleviate pain and restore function in the shoulder joint. This surgery is often recommended for individuals suffering from severe shoulder arthritis, significant shoulder fractures, or other debilitating shoulder conditions that have not responded to conservative treatments.
n this procedure, both the head of the humerus (the upper arm bone) and the glenoid (the socket of the shoulder blade) are replaced with artificial components. This type of replacement is typically used for patients with advanced osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.Also known as hemiarthroplasty, this surgery involves replacing only the head of the humerus while leaving the glenoid intact. This option may be suitable for patients with shoulder fractures or isolated damage to the humeral head.
This innovative approach involves reversing the normal anatomy of the shoulder. The ball is placed on the shoulder blade, and the socket is attached to the humerus. This technique is particularly beneficial for patients with rotator cuff deficiencies, where the rotator cuff muscles are severely damaged or not functional.
Before the surgery, a comprehensive evaluation is conducted to assess the patient's overall health, the condition of the shoulder joint, and the suitability of shoulder replacement. This includes physical examinations, imaging studies (X-rays, MRI, or CT scans), and discussions about the patient's medical history and expectations.After the surgery, the patient will be monitored for any immediate complications and will begin initial physical therapy. Pain management and wound care are important aspects of the postoperative period.