Several options are available for shoulder replacement and fixation. Fixation of the replacement is based upon patient age, demands and medical conditions. . The surgeon will discuss these various options and utilize the most appropriate replacement.

When is a Total Shoulder Replacement Needed?

Total shoulder replacement is most frequently considered with patients who have either osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or have sustained trauma. A physician should exhaust all reasonable non-surgical alternatives of management before contemplating a joint replacement. Trials of activity modification, gentle physical therapy to maintain muscle tone, anti-inflammatory medication and occasional pain medication may be sufficient enough to make symptoms tolerable. If the patient does not respond well to these treatments and the pain cannot be managed with a non-operative program, total shoulder replacement is an option. This procedure can provide remarkable relief from pain and allow for daily activities.

What to expect with a Total Shoulder Replacement?

The replacement will provide patients with pain relief. It will allow patients to carry out normal activities of daily living. Motion and stiffness are improved after replacement. Recreational activities with lower demand can be enjoyed such as golfing, swimming and tennis.

What are some risks associated with Total Shoulder Replacement?

As with all joint replacements, this is considered a major surgery. There are a variety of complications which can occur with replacement or afterwards. Oftentimes prior to surgery the patient will have a medical work up completed to help avoid complications.

Surgical complications or risks include: blood clots in an extremity, pneumonia, blood clots in the lung(s), wound infection, anesthesia issues, stiffness, instability of the joint, retear of the rotator cuff or fracture. Some of these complications, such as infection, loosening of the prosthesis and stiffness may require an additional surgery.

What is the average stay in the hospital after replacement?

Most patients are in the hospital after replacement for 2-3 days. Patients who live with someone who can assist them after surgery generally transition to home without much problem. Oftentimes home health and home physical therapy is utilized for the initial weeks at home. If a patient lives alone it is encouraged that they find someone who can stay with them when they return home. If the patient is not safe to go home or is not progressing well a rehabilitation facility may be used for 1-2 weeks until they can care for themselves independently.

How long will a sling need to be utilized?

Most patients use a sling for about 4 -6 weeks or until instructed otherwise by the surgeon.

How successful is Total Shoulder replacement surgery?

Results are generally very good; most people are relieved of their shoulder pain and the replaced joint will usually last ten or more years, depending on the patient use and activity levels.

The major long-term problem is loosening of the prosthesis. This occurs either because the artificial knee cement becomes loosened or because the bone melts away (reabsorbs) from the cement.