Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Shoulder replacement surgery, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, involves replacing damaged parts of the shoulder joint with artificial implants. Patients experiencing severe arthritis and chronic shoulder pain may benefit from a shoulder joint replacement.
Most shoulder replacement surgery patients experience significant pain relief, improved range of motion, and better quality of life.
Who is a candidate for shoulder replacement surgery?
Wondering when a shoulder replacement is necessary? If you experience consistent shoulder pain that affects your normal activities of daily living, a shoulder replacement may make sense for you.
The following conditions typically cause chronic pain, stiffness, joint dysfunction, and limited range of motion:
Severe osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
Complex or severe shoulder fractures
Long-standing or severe rotator cuff tears
Frozen shoulder or stiffness of the shoulder joint
Other conditions that cause pain, stiffness, and functional issues
Shoulder Replacement Evaluation
Evaluating your need for a shoulder replacement typically involves x-rays, a physical examination, and medical history. You can expect Dr. Money to ask about your symptoms, such as pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, and how your symptoms affect your daily activities.
Non-Surgical Treatment
In many cases, Dr. Money will recommend conservative, non-surgical treatment before proceeding with surgery. Treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and injections may provide the relief you need.
Individuals who do not respond to these conservative treatments may be ideal candidates for a shoulder replacement.
Types of Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Shoulder replacement surgery is a minimally invasive surgery performed with an arthroscope, a small, tube-like camera the size of a pencil. Dr. Money will discuss the different types of shoulder replacement surgeries with you and determine which one is right for you.
Anatomic Shoulder Replacement
Dr. Money typically recommends an anatomic replacement for patients with intact rotator cuff tendons and stable shoulder structure. During this procedure, the top of the upper arm bone (humeral head) is replaced with a metal ball, and the socket (glenoid) is replaced with an artificial socket.
Reverse Shoulder Replacement
For patients with severe rotator cuff tears or failed surgeries, Dr. Money may recommend a reverse shoulder replacement.
In the reverse procedure, the metal ball is placed on the shoulder blade (glenoid), and an artificial socket is attached to the upper arm bone (humerus). The reverse replacement design transfers the responsibility of shoulder movement from the rotator cuff to the deltoid muscle.
Outpatient vs Inpatient
The surgery can be performed as both an inpatient and outpatient procedure. The type of procedure will depend on various factors including medical history, medical co-morbidities, support system, and type of replacement. Dr. Money will discuss both options and work with you to determine the best plan of care.
Shoulder Replacement Recovery Time
Your recovery time may vary based on the severity of your joint condition. Most patients wear a sling for 1-2 weeks. They gain strength and mobility with physical therapy exercises over several months and experience full recovery within 3-6 months.
Benefits of Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Shoulder replacement is considered one of the most effective joint replacement therapies. Most shoulder replacement patients experience significant relief and improved mobility within weeks of having surgery. Shoulder replacements typically last 10-20+ years, depending on the patient’s activity level and overall health.
Schedule a Shoulder Replacement Evaluation
See if a shoulder replacement is right for you. Schedule a visit with Dr. Money at Rothman Orthopeadics Winter Garden, serving Clermont, Ocoee, Windermere, Dr. Phillips, and the greater Orlando area.
