Shoulder Replacement Surgery

• The most common condition that patients seek shoulder replacement surgery for is osteoarthritis, which is the most common form of arthritis. It is caused by wear and tear and causes joint pain and stiffness. It is most common among older adults.
• Other conditions that shoulder replacement surgery may treat include:
  • Post-traumatic arthritis (e.g. previous fracture or dislocation)
  • Rheumatoid or other inflammatory arthritis
  • Irreparable rotator cuff tears
  • Severe acute fractures of the shoulder joint
  • Failed previous shoulder surgery

• Total shoulder replacement – The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint (like your hip), a replacement typically involves replacing the “ball” atop your upper arm as well as the “socket” in your shoulder blade.
• Partial shoulder replacement – If the damaged part of the shoulder is isolated to a specific area, our surgeons may recommend a partial shoulder replacement where only the ball is replaced.
• Reverse shoulder replacement – This type of surgery is used in multiple cases where the rotator cuff musculature is either unable to be repaired or unable to be relied upon for long-term function. In a reverse total shoulder replacement, the ball and socket positions are reversed. This alteration changes the mechanics of your shoulder, allowing the shoulder to rely on large muscle groups instead of the rotator cuff.

While shoulder replacement surgery is becoming more common, the treatment is typically recommended for:

• Patients who experience interference with normal daily activities because of chronic degenerative conditions or significant acute shoulder injuries.
• Patients who experience severe shoulder pain to the point where everyday activities are painful and difficult such as washing in the shower, reaching for something, etc.
• Patients with poor range of motion or weakness in the shoulder.
• Patients who experience significant shoulder pain while they are sleeping.
• Patients who have not responded to other treatments like physical therapy, medications, injections, or other procedures.
• Patients who had a previously unsuccessful shoulder surgery.

Depending on their overall health and other factors, patients could go home the same day of the surgery (outpatient) or they may require a hospital stay for overnight observation.

A sling will be recommended for approximately one month to provide protection and promote healing.

All patients have a nerve block performed pre-operatively that can help your anesthesiologist minimize or avoid narcotics during your surgery. This allows you to wake up more easily and feel better immediately after surgery. In addition, the nerve block can keep your arm pain-free for 18 to 30 hours, further helping you avoid post-op narcotic use.

Most shoulder replacement surgery patients experience minimal post-op pain, often requiring only non-narcotic medications.

A patient’s recovery experience is also dependent on his or her adherence to a recovery plan.
The recovery plan for shoulder replacement surgery may include:

• Physical therapy – Physical therapy will start a few days after surgery to prevent stiffness, initiating early motion while appropriately protecting the shoulder as you resume your daily routine.
• Limiting or modifying activities for the first 4-6 months post-op.