Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Shoulder replacement surgery, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, is a procedure used to relieve pain and improve function in patients with severe shoulder joint damage. At Dr. Isaac Bone & Joint Speciality Hospital, we specialize in shoulder replacement surgery, offering comprehensive care to patients suffering from conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, severe fractures, or irreparable rotator cuff tears.
During shoulder replacement surgery, the damaged parts of the shoulder joint are removed and replaced with artificial components, known as prostheses, designed to mimic the natural anatomy and function of the shoulder. The type of shoulder replacement used depends on the patient’s specific condition and the extent of joint damage.
The two main types of shoulder replacement surgery are total shoulder replacement and reverse shoulder replacement.
In total shoulder replacement, both the ball and socket of the shoulder joint are replaced with prosthetic components made of metal, plastic, or ceramic materials. This procedure is typically used for patients with intact rotator cuffs and relatively good bone quality.
In reverse shoulder replacement, the positions of the ball and socket components are reversed, with the ball portion of the prosthesis attached to the shoulder socket and the socket portion attached to the upper end of the arm bone (humerus). This configuration allows the deltoid muscle, rather than the rotator cuff, to power the arm, making it suitable for patients with severe rotator cuff tears or other complex shoulder conditions.
Shoulder replacement surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and the surgeon makes an incision over the shoulder joint to access the damaged structures. The prosthetic components are then inserted and secured to the bone using specialized surgical techniques. After the procedure, patients undergo a period of postoperative rehabilitation to regain strength, mobility, and function in the shoulder.
Shoulder replacement surgery can significantly reduce pain, improve shoulder function, and enhance the quality of life for patients with severe shoulder joint damage. While complications are rare, as with any surgical procedure, risks such as infection, nerve injury, or prosthesis loosening may occur.
At Dr. Isaac Bone & Joint Speciality Hospital, our team of orthopedic surgeons and shoulder specialists has extensive experience in performing shoulder replacement surgery. We utilize advanced surgical techniques and state-of-the-art prosthetic components to ensure optimal outcomes and help patients achieve lasting relief from shoulder pain and dysfunction.