Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Purpose, Preparation, Procedure, & Post-Procedure Care

Shoulder replacement is a surgical intervention that is performed in case of severe shoulder joint degeneration to replace damaged components of shoulder joint with artificial parts or prostheses in an attempt to eradicate the cause of pain and dysfunction.

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Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Treatment Overview

More than any other joint in your body, your shoulder is a vital joint that can rotate in numerous ways. Your doctor might recommend shoulder replacement surgery if your shoulder pain is so bad that it keeps you from sleeping soundly or reaching to cabinets placed at heights. This procedure can reduce your pain and increase your range of motion. Shoulder osteoarthritis is a common cause of this kind of discomfort. It occurs due to degeneration or breakdown of tissues forming shoulder joints such as cartilage and supporting structures.

Shoulder replacement is the last resolution in severe cases where degeneration is irreversible. This surgical intervention involves the removal of damaged parts of joint bones and replacing them with prosthesis or implants made of metal and plastic biomaterials. This can also be suggested by your doctor in cases of rotator cuff injuries, fractures, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteonecrosis, depending on the patient condition and severity of damage.

Future developments in shoulder replacement care might reap more success from the incorporation of new technologies. These days, proficient orthopedic surgeons offer customized surgical procedures for shoulder replacement that are tailored to suit each individual patient's needs. The accuracy, quality, and durability of shoulder replacement surgery is dependent on the expertise of the specialist in performing the procedure and making use of technologically advanced least invasive equipment.

If you or your loved ones are suffering from shoulder joint injury or degeneration, then you are at the right place. Dr. Ishwar Bohra is one of the top orthopedic surgeons in India. He has earned great merits and has been recognised as one of the best shoulder replacement surgeon in Delhi. People are experiencing best outcomes from the surgeries performed by Dr. Bohra.

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Shoulder Replacement Surgery

What is Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

Shoulder replacement is a surgical intervention that is performed in case of severe shoulder joint degeneration to replace damaged components of shoulder joint with artificial parts or prostheses in an attempt to eradicate the cause of pain and dysfunction.

Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, rotator cuff tear arthropathy, and avascular necrosis are the most common conditions that require shoulder replacement surgery. The goal of the procedure is to make your shoulder and arm more functional, reduce pain reduction, strengthen the joint, and boost your range of motion.

Types of Shoulder Replacement Surgery

The following shoulder replacement options may be recommended by your doctor, depending on the type of joint damage you have:

Anatomic total shoulder replacement

The socket and the ball are both swapped out. The implants mimic the morphology of the bones.

Reverse total shoulder replacement

Replacement of both ball and the socket is done but the implants are reversed. The upper arm bone is where the socket is attached, and the shoulder blade is where the ball is attached. When the rotator cuff is seriously injured, this approach is usually recommended.

Partial shoulder replacement

Just the joint's head, or ball, is replaced. When the joint damage is limited to the ball side, it might be advised..

Purpose of Shoulder Replacement Surgery

The following conditions are often treated with this surgery when the extent of damage is irreversible with medical interventions:

  • Osteoarthritis: This wear-and-tear type of arthritis damages the cartilage covering the ends of bones, which is necessary for smooth joint movement.
  • Fractures: Fractures at the upper end of the humerus may require replacement if the previous injury was not successfully treated surgically or if previous attempts at fracture fixation have failed.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis or other joint inflammatory disorders: Rheumatoid arthritis induced inflammation, brought on by an overactive immune system, can occasionally cause underlying bone and cartilage damage in the joint.
  • Rotator cuff injuries: Injuries to the rotator cuff, a collection of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, can cause damage to the cartilage and bone in the joint.
  • Osteonecrosis: When the humerus fails to receive blood flow due to specific shoulder conditions, the bone collapses.

Shoulder Replacement Surgery Preparation

Following are the preparatory steps for the surgery:

  • Thorough physical examination to confirm the need for surgery
  • Imaging tests including shoulder X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and/or computed tomography (CT) scan to further evaluate the shoulder condition and to decide the type of surgery to be undertaken
  • Other tests including complete blood analysis, urinalysis, an ECG (to evaluate the health of your heart), oral examination
  • Tell your doctor about all of the over-the-counter medications and supplements you currently take or have taken in the past.
  • Prior to your procedure, you will be asked to cease taking specific drugs or supplements. Since some medications may impede the healing process following surgery like NSAIDS
  • Your orthopedic surgeon will give you instructions on when to stop eating and drinking the day before surgery. For most patients, the 12-hour period before surgery involves no food or liquids.
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Shoulder Replacement Surgery Procedure

  • Before the procedure, your vitals will be checked.
  • After that, the preoperative drugs will be given, which could make you feel drowsy and dry-mouthed.
  • Most patients receive a nerve block and general anesthesia. While the nerve block numbs the shoulder to control pain after the procedure, general anesthesia induces a deep sleep.
  • Usually, the procedure takes one to three hours to complete.
  • Your surgeon will make an incision across your shoulder joint to gain access to the area.
  • The surgeon will first remove the damaged humerus's (upper arm bone). The new metal head and stem will be fitted into the bone, or if the bone is of poor quality, it can be cemented in place.
  • The old socket's surface will be smoothed, and the new one will be firmly put in place by cementing.
  • Sutures or staples will be used to close the incision.
  • You will have a bandage or dressing applied to your wound.
  • Your surgeon may place a tube in this area to release any fluid that may build up in the joint. When the need is fulfilled, the drain will be removed.
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Post-Procedure Care for Shoulder Replacement Surgery

  • For a brief period, you will be admitted to the Post Anaesthesia Recovery Unit (PACU).
  • The team gets your shoulder's postoperative X-rays.
  • An immobilizer will be fastened to your shoulder. Unless specifically told otherwise, do not try to move your shoulder.
  • The doctors will determine the length of your hospital stay following surgery based on your individual needs. On the other hand, a lot of patients might go home the same day with an extensive list of post-operative care instructions.
  • Because shoulder surgery is a painful procedure, pain management is essential. Your regional nerve block should, for the most part, relieve your pain; however, on rare occasions, it may not, in which case you may need to take oral painkillers to remain comfortable.
  • During your hospital stay, you are encouraged to get out of bed and move around. Bring clothing that fits loosely so that getting dressed will be simpler. You'll be able to shower after 48 hours.
  • Your physical therapist will help you learn about specific exercises, their limitations, and how to do them at home. You will also receive written instructions when you are released from the hospital. Most of these exercises are quick and simple to carry out.

Recovery After Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Your complete recovery may take months. Following information can give an idea about your recovery timeline after shoulder replacement surgery:

  • During the first four days following surgery, pain and swelling will persist.
  • One to two weeks following surgery, your doctor will recommend gentle therapy exercises.
  • Using a sling will help up to six weeks while performing simple tasks like picking up a cup of coffee or putting together a sandwich
  • In eight to twelve weeks, you might be able to resume your regular activities.
  • Following surgery, patients who underwent total shoulder replacement will be restricted to lifting no more than thirty pounds of weight.

Why Choose Dr. Ishwar Bohra for Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

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Renowned for his groundbreaking work in joint restoration, Dr. Ishwar Bohra keeps pushing the frontiers of innovation with his latest research backed procedures. By employing advanced techniques and evidence-based strategies, Dr. Bohra ensures the best possible results for patients seeking joint rejuvenation. His commitment to excellence in restoring mobility and improving quality of life is demonstrated by his commitment to staying at the forefront of medical advancements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How much time will the procedure take?

A: A shoulder replacement procedure typically requires one to three hours to complete. But the length of time might vary from person to person.

Q2: How many days will it take me to get back to my regular schedule?

A: You'll be able to resume your regular activities in about 8 to 12 weeks.

Q3: Should I give up cigarettes before planning surgery?

A: You should definitely give up smoking before the procedure because tobacco use can cause the blood clotting to slow down.

Q4: Is shoulder replacement a major surgery?

A: Yes, shoulder replacement surgery is a major procedure. Therefore, you should anticipate pain during the healing period. After your procedure, you may receive an injection of painkillers. Your surgeon or nurse will give you oral medications to help you feel less uncomfortable a day or two after the procedure.

Q5: What is the maximum age to replace a shoulder?

A: Patients undergoing a shoulder replacement are generally between the age of 60 and 80 years. However, patients aged 40 years may also go for shoulder replacement if the need arises.

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Based on your symptoms, disease severity, overall health status, expectations, and diagnostic test reports, your doctor will prepare a personalized treatment plan.

Per-surgical Appointment

Your doctor will fix a surgery date based on your needs and convenience. During a pre-surgical appointment, you will sign the consent form and receive the pre-surgical instructions from the doctor.

Surgical & Post-Surgical Care

The doctor will perform your surgery and you will stay in the hospital for post-surgical care and observation under the specialized team. You will receive the at-home care instructions from the doctor before discharge.

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Dr. Ishwar Bohra, the best joint replacement surgeon, has brought joint care a step closer to the maximum mobility restoration with enhanced quality of life and great patient satisfaction. Choose our facility to avail personalized care and highest treatment success since we are committed to serve you the most personalized care.