Shoulder Arthroplasty

What is shoulder arthroplasty?

The shoulder is a large joint that rotates at a greater range than any other point in the body. Suppose your shoulder is hurting badly, making it difficult to reach for things and sleep properly. In that case, you may consider a procedure that addresses chronic shoulder pain and immobility, known as shoulder arthroplasty.

Shoulder arthroplasty is a restorative procedure that utilises artificial components to create a new shoulder joint. The artificial pieces are referred to as a prosthesis and work just as well as a shoulder joint.

What are the main reasons for shoulder arthroplasty?

A shoulder arthroplasty can be done to treat osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, rotator cuff tears and avascular necrosis (osteonecrosis). Avascular necrosis affects the bone tissue due to poor blood supply. As a result, the bone begins to collapse in certain areas, so the entire bone can begin to degenerate.

A fracture or tear in the joint can restrict blood flow to the affected part of the bone. Dr Earl Rose will have to perform shoulder replacement surgery to restore shoulder mobility and treat pain. The procedure will help restore the function of the shoulder and improve your lifestyle over time.

How do you perform shoulder surgery?

The injured joint, the ball (humeral head), is replaced with a metal ball. A new plastic surface is inserted over the socket (glenoid) of the shoulder.

Shoulder arthroplasty can be done in the following ways:

  • Hemiarthroplasty is a procedure to replace the ball and stem only. As a result, Dr Earl Rose connects the stem to the ball to work in sync with the natural socket.
  • Shoulder arthroplasty without a stem (stemless procedure) whereby Dr Earl Rose attaches the metal ball to the upper part of the arm.
  • Resurfacing of the joint uses a prosthesis in the shape of a cap to replace the surface of the humeral head without a stem.

The results of shoulder replacement are magnificent because patients experience an improved range of motion, less pain and improved strength.

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FAQ

How long can shoulder arthroplasty take?

Two hours.

Is there anything I should be aware of after a shoulder arthroplasty?

You will be in pain after shoulder replacement surgery. In this case, Dr Earl Rose will prescribe oral pain medication or deliver the medication via injection directly after the procedure.

Does it take long to recover from shoulder arthroplasty?

Your arm will be in a sling for six weeks. The anaesthesia can take up to 18 hours to wear off. So you will be prescribed pain medication in the interim. .