Shoulder Replacement Surgery
What is shoulder replacement surgery?
Shoulder replacement surgery is also known as shoulder arthroplasty. It is a surgical procedure that removes and helps get rid of the damaged bones and tissues in the shoulders. Severe damage in shoulder joints can cause extreme stiffness and excruciating pain to begin with, restricting free movement of the shoulder. Dr.Praful’s orthopedic clinic offers the best shoulder replacement surgery in Hyderabad with the supervision of guidance of highly trained and qualified doctors.
The procedure is completely safe and guarantees quality results that have lasting effects. Shoulder replacement surgery though less common compared to knee and hip replacement surgery, is still very much done and performed that has best results and outcome. The shoulder replacement surgery can be done as anatomic total shoulder replacement, reverse total shoulder replacement or partial shoulder replacement depending on the condition or severity of the patient.
Causes of shoulder replacement surgery.
- Osteoarthritis – Osteoarthritis breaks down the cartilage and the bone in the shoulders causing severe trauma and pain. It usually affects middle aged or elderly people.
- Rheumatoid arthritis – Rheumatoid arthritis causes inflammation which results in stiffness and pain in the shoulders.
- Post-Traumatic arthritis – It is caused by severe injuries to your joint that can damage the cartilage which results in stiffness and pain in the shoulders.
- Osteonecrosis – Osteonecrosis prevents a proper blood flow to the humerus which can cause severe bone damage even causing it to collapse.
- Injuries – Injuries can damage the cartilage and bone in the shoulder joint.
- Fractures – Fractures usually require replacement as they can further lead to ruptures or damage of the cartilage in the shoulder joint, if left untreated.
Anatomy of the shoulder
The shoulder is made up of three bones namely arm bones, shoulder blade and collar bone. The arm bone is known as humerus and the shoulder blade is known as scapula.
The shoulder as we know is a ball and socket joint where the head of the upper joint bone fixates into the socket of your shoulder blade and is covered with cartilage that protects the bones from getting damaged or ruptured. The muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder provide support and all the components together allow a free mobility and movement of the shoulders.
Ideal candidates for shoulder replacement surgery?
- People with shoulder arthritis pain that does not heal or cure even with various medications and treatments.
- People with extreme stiffness in the shoulder.
- People experiencing a rupture like pain in the shoulders when they move their shoulders should consider the surgery.
- People who have a disability should not opt for the surgery.
- Anybody with illnesses or nerve diseases should stay away from the surgery.
At initial consultation
At the initial consultation with our doctor, you will be required to discuss your worries and queries. The doctor will ask you for any medical conditions that you have including a complete medical history. The medications or supplements that you currently take, will have to be listed.
Any sort of allergies or illnesses that you have must be informed to the doctor beforehand. The doctor will then explain further proceedings about the type of surgery, its requirements, the cost of the surgery, the mandatory implementations etc. The initial consultation would be the right time to discuss and deliberate your choices before opting in for the surgery.
Instructions before surgery.
- A complete physical examination of your body will be done.
- Various scans and X-Rays of your shoulder will be taken.
- You will be required to stop smoking weeks prior to the surgery.
- Using aspirin or any anti-inflammatory medicines and drugs should be stopped prior to the surgery as it can interfere with the healing process of the wound.
Procedure
Step 1 – General anesthesia will be given to the patient.
Step 2 – An incision starting from the top front of your shoulder to the deltoid muscle is made. The incision is usually about 6mm in length.
Step 3 – The humeral head that is damaged will then be analyzed and replaced with implants. The type of implants would have been discussed prior to the surgery during your consultation with the doctor.
Step 4 – The prosthetics or implants can either be cemented with surgical cement or can be fixed with other components.
Step 5 – The incisions are then closed with dissolvable sutures or stitches accordingly.
Most people prefer a metal ball as the humeral replacement with a metal on plastic implants as it is more convenient and compatible.
Instructions after surgery
- You will be taken to the recovery room and kept under observation for a few hours post op.
- You will be advised to use the sling support for your shoulders to keep the implants in place.
- No lifting heavy weights that can cause too much pressure on the shoulders.
- Very light and gentle movements or exercises would be suggested for a speedy recovery.
- You will not be allowed to smoke or consume alcohol.
- Regularly attend the follow up sessions with your doctor.
- Take the medications prescribed by the doctor in a timely manner.
- Maintain proper hygiene to avoid any kinds of infections.
Side effects of the surgery
Some of the possible side effects or risks of the surgery include-
dislocation of the joint
- Infections
- Nerve damage or injury.
- Fractures.
- Loosening of the implants
- Blood clots
FAQs
How long does the shoulder replacement surgery last?
It usually lasts for a good 15-20 years after which, the implants may loosen up.
Is shoulder replacement surgery safe?
Yes, it is completely safe. Dr.Praful orthopedic clinic in Hyderabad has the best set of doctors who are certified and trained to perform high level surgeries with best results.
What is the recovery period?
It can take upto 6-8 weeks for the patient to freely move their arms and 3-5 months for a full recovery.
How long is the shoulder replacement surgery?
It can take upto 3 hours or more depending on the severity and doctor in charge.
What is the cost of the shoulder replacement surgery?
You can contact us via the contact page and we will inform you about the cost and details of teh surgery.