How To Guide

Total shoulder replacement is an effective surgical procedure which replaces the ball and joint of the shoulder so that it is able to function more efficiently and without pain. Individuals who have experienced severe pain due to shoulder arthritis may benefit from this procedure.

Shoulder replacement surgery is commonly conducted as a way of treating severe arthritis in the shoulder joint. When arthritis is present, the cartilage of the joints are affected and begin to wear away. As the protective lining that is typically in place between the bones is lost, bones begin to wear against one another, creating severe pain. This pain can result in a restriction of movement. Individuals who suffer from this type of arthritis may also experience a sensation of grinding in the shoulder when they attempt to move the joint.

Ideal candidates for total shoulder replacement include individuals who experience severe pain in the shoulder due to arthritis and whose pain cannot be controlled through rest and the use of anti-inflammatory medications.

Patients will commonly require a pre-operative health screening examination prior to the procedure in order to ensure that they are physically ready for the procedure. In most instances, a series of X-rays will be ordered in order to examine the shoulder prior to the procedure. An MRI may also be necessary in order for the physician to evaluate the quality of the bone quality. In some instances, steroid injections may be utilized prior to the surgery in an effort to lessen pain; however, these methods frequently do not result in lasting pain relief.

The physician may order routine lab tests such as blood tests and a urinalysis. For patients who are over the age of 50, an EKG may also be ordered prior to the surgery. Patients are usually advised not to have anything to drink or eat on the day of the procedure. The physician may also advise the patient to stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin, for a period of time prior to the surgery in order to prevent blood from becoming thin.

The pain that is associated with arthritis in the shoulder can be relieved through the replacement of the bone and cartilage that has become damaged. A metal and plastic implant is used in the replacement process. The shoulder joint is much like the hip joint and is comprised of a ball and socket joint. The ball is situated at the top of the arm bone, which is known as the humerus. The socket is situated within the shoulder blade; the scapula. It is the joint that provides range of motion in the shoulder area.

During shoulder replacement surgery, the ball at the top of the humerus will be removed and will be replaced with a metal implant. The implant is in the shape of a crescent or half-moon and will be attached to a stem that will then be inserted down into the center of the arm bone. The socket part of the joint will then be shaved clean and replaced with a pocket constructed of plastic. It will then be cemented into the scapula.

The entire procedure typically last approximately two hours. The incision site is usually situated near the front of the shoulder and will be between four and six inches long. General anesthesia is commonly used during the surgery.

Patients will commonly need to remain in the hospital for between one and three days following their procedure. Once released from the hospital, the patient will wear a sling. They should not attempt to use the arm except for as directed by the physician. The patient will typically be allowed to begin using their arm for light activity at around four weeks following their surgery. Unrestricted, active use of the arm may begin at about eight weeks following the procedure. Most patients are able to return to work within about two to four weeks following the procedure.

For the first few days following the procedure, the patient is likely to feel somewhat shaky and uncertain regarding the use of their new joint. Therapy may be utilized in order to help the patient gain confidence in the use of the replacement joint.

Within two to three months, the patient will usually be able to return to almost all of their normal activities. An emphasis will be placed on maintaining range of motion and strengthening the muscles around the shoulder area during this recovery period.

As is the case with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection during total shoulder replacement surgery. Other possible risks include dislocation/instability, loosening of the implant and possible damage to nerves.

The patient is likely to notice some pain when they awaken from surgery. In most cases, the pain will not be the same type of pain that the patient experienced as a result of their arthritis prior to having surgery.

On average, the cost of a total shoulder replacement surgery will be about $10,000. If it is deemed to be medically necessary, health insurance may cover this procedure.

Popularity: 4% [?]