
What is Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
Shoulder replacement involves removing damaged bone parts and replacing them with metal and plastic implants. This surgery is also called shoulder arthroplasty. The procedure helps in improving your shoulder strength and boosts the range of motion of your arm and shoulder.
Types of Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Anatomic total shoulder replacement- In this procedure, both the ball and the socket are replaced. The implants resemble the natural shape of the bones.
Reverse total shoulder replacement- In this procedure, both the ball and the socket are replaced, but the implants are reversed. The ball is attached to the shoulder blade and the socket is attached to the upper arm bone. This option typically is preferred if the rotator cuff is severely damaged.
Partial shoulder replacement- This involves, only the head (ball) of the joint being replaced. It may be recommended when only the ball side of the joint is damaged.
Why it's done?
Osteoarthritis- Osteoarthritis is a common joint disorder that primarily affects the cartilage, the slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint, providing cushioning and facilitating smooth movement. It's often referred to as wear-and-tear arthritis.
Rotator cuff injuries- A rotator cuff is a muscle group and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. Rotator cuff injuries sometimes can result in damage to cartilage and bone in the shoulder joint.
Fractures- Fractures of the upper end of the humerus may require replacement, either as a result of the injury or when the prior surgery for fracture fixation has failed
- Risk Factor
- Dislocation
- Fracture
- Implant loosening
- Rotator cuff failure
- Nerve damage
- Blood clots
- Infection