Patient Education
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Shoulder joint replacement, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which the damaged parts of the shoulder joint are removed and replaced with artificial components called a prosthesis.
Types of Shoulder Replacements
Total Shoulder Replacement: This is the most common type where both the ball (head of the humerus bone) and the socket (glenoid) are replaced with prosthetic components – a metal ball and a plastic socket.
Hemiarthroplasty: Only the ball (head of the humerus) is replaced with a metal ball, while the socket remains intact. This is done when the socket has minimal damage.
Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement: Used for severe rotator cuff injuries or failed previous replacements. The ball and socket are reversed – the socket is replaced with a ball, and the upper humerus has a socket implanted.
Reasons for Shoulder Replacement
The main reasons for undergoing shoulder replacement include:
- Severe arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis) causing pain and limited mobility
- Fractures or severe shoulder injuries
- Rotator cuff tear arthropathy (severe rotator cuff tears with arthritis)
Procedure
The damaged bone and cartilage are removed, and the prosthetic components are implanted using cement or a press-fit technique. The surgery typically takes 2-3 hours under anesthesia.
Recovery
- Physical therapy begins the day after surgery to regain range of motion and strength.
- Full recovery: 2-6 months, with continued physical therapy
- Potential complications: infection, nerve damage, dislocation, component loosening over time
Overall, shoulder replacement surgery is highly effective in relieving pain and restoring mobility for patients with severe shoulder joint damage, with a high satisfaction rate.
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