What is surgery to replace the whole shoulder?
Surgery to replace injured shoulder parts with artificial prostheses is known as a total shoulder replacement (sometimes referred to as shoulder arthroplasty).
Who is a candidate for a total shoulder replacement procedure?
Patients with severe shoulder arthritis, most frequently osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, comprise the majority of patients who have complete shoulder replacement surgery. Injuries to the shoulder may also be a prevalent cause. People may be aware of their extreme pain, stiffness, and movement issues. The best course of action in these situations might be a shoulder replacement operation.
Procedure
Under a general anesthesia, the normal type of complete shoulder replacement surgery is typically carried out. The injured joint components are removed through an incision made in the front of the shoulder. After that, the prosthesis is adjusted to fit the shoulder. These normally include a fresh plastic socket that is glued into the old socket’s location. After that, a metal “bone” that resembles a ball with a projecting stem is installed, with the ball going into the new socket and the metal stem being fastened into the upper arm bone to give the shoulder mobility. The quality of the bone and whether the rotator cuff tendons have been damaged will determine whether bone cement is utilized to secure the prosthesis in place. The initial incision is then closed with sutures or clips following prosthesis fitting.
Recuperation time
Following your complete shoulder replacement surgery, you will need to stay in the hospital for around three days. You will be given a physical therapist who will work with you to start mobility exercises while your arm is immobilized in a sling for a few weeks. Your physiotherapist will walk you through the process of returning to work, driving, and vigorous exercise because it will differ for each patient. Ten days following surgery, the sutures will be removed. Please be aware that full recovery could take anywhere from 6 to 12 months.
Risks
Total shoulder replacement surgery carries a number of risks, including the potential for infection, hemorrhage, prosthetic device loosening, blood vessel and nerve injury, dislocation, chronic discomfort, and a visible change in arm length.
