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Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Shoulder pain can severely impact your quality of life, causing discomfort and limiting your ability to perform daily activities. If you are suffering from chronic shoulder pain that has not responded to other treatments, shoulder replacement surgery might be an effective solution. Consult with the best orthopaedic surgeons for shoulder replacement surgery at the CK Birla Hospital.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery
When is Shoulder Replacement Surgery required?
Shoulder replacement surgery is often required when the shoulder joint is damaged due to arthritis, severe fractures, or other degenerative conditions.
The procedure involves replacing the damaged parts of the shoulder with artificial components. If left untreated, shoulder joint issues can lead to chronic pain, decreased mobility, and a significant decline in the quality of life.
Causes of Shoulder Joint Issues
- Osteoarthritis: The most common cause of shoulder joint damage, where the cartilage wears down over time.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: A crippling autoimmune condition that leads to inflammation in the joints causing long term damage.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Joint damage resulting from a severe injury or fracture.
- Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy: Severe rotator cuff tears can lead to shoulder arthritis and joint instability.
- Avascular Necrosis (AVN): A condition where the blood supply to the bone is disrupted, leading to bone death and joint damage.
Types of Shoulder Replacement Surgery
- Total Shoulder Replacement: Both the ball and socket of the shoulder joint are replaced with artificial components.
- Partial Shoulder Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty): Only the ball of the shoulder joint is replaced.
- Reverse Shoulder Replacement: The positions of the ball and socket are reversed to improve function in patients with severe rotator cuff tears.
- Shoulder Resurfacing: A less invasive procedure where only the joint surfaces are replaced.
- Revision Shoulder Replacement: This is a corrective surgery of a prior shoulder replacement that has failed.
Complications of untreated Shoulder Joint Issues
- Chronic Pain: Persistent shoulder pain that can severely limit daily activities.
- Decreased Mobility: Loss of shoulder function and range of motion.
- Joint Deformity: Progression of joint damage can lead to deformities.
- Muscle Atrophy: Prolonged disuse of the shoulder can result in muscle weakening.
- Reduced Quality of Life: Inability to perform everyday tasks can affect quality of life.
Preventive Measures Against Shoulder Joint Issues
- Regular Exercise: Engage in exercises that strengthen the shoulder muscles and maintain joint flexibility.
- Avoid Overuse: Prevent repetitive stress injuries by not overloading the shoulder joint.
- Maintain Good Posture: Proper posture can help prevent shoulder strain and injury.
- Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D supports bone health.
- Early Intervention: Seek medical attention for shoulder pain or injuries to prevent further damage.
Top Shoulder Replacement Surgeons
Diagnosis of Shoulder Joint Issues
For accurate detection of shoulder joint issues, a physical examination is required. The orthopaedist will review your medical history and may analyse the condition based on the following tests:- X-rays
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
- CT (Computed Tomography) Scan
- Ultrasound
Pre-Treatment/Surgery Instructions
- Follow the doctor’s instructions for medication.
- Avoid consumption of alcohol and tobacco.
- Doctors often instruct avoiding food or drink 8 hours prior to surgery.
- Make sure you have a caregiver with you post-surgery.
Post-Surgery Instructions
- The patient will be observed for a few hours post-surgery.
- Hospital discharge typically occurs after 1-2 days, depending on the surgery type and recovery progress.
- Post discharge timely follow-ups will be scheduled to actively monitor recovery.
- Physical therapy may be recommended to regain strength and mobility.
Recovery After Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Depending on the type of surgery and the complications associated to each case, patients can expect:- Initial recovery within 4-6 weeks.
- Full recovery and return to normal activities within 3-6 months.
- The ability to perform daily tasks improves significantly after the initial recovery phase.
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FAQs about Shoulder Replacement Surgery
What is the Average Cost of Shoulder Replacement Surgeries?
- Total Shoulder Replacement: Typically ranges from
- Partial Shoulder Replacement: Generally costs between
- Reverse Shoulder Replacement: Can range from
- Shoulder Resurfacing: Costs approximately
- Revision Shoulder Replacement: Often the most expensive, ranging from
Advantages of Minimally Invasive Surgery Over Traditional Open Surgery
Aspect | Minimally Invasive Surgery | Traditional Open Surgery |
Incisions | Smaller incisions | Larger incisions |
Recovery Time | Shorter recovery period | Longer recovery period |
Pain and Scarring | Less pain and minimal scarring | More pain and noticeable scarring |
Hospital Stay | Shorter hospital stay | Longer hospital stay |
Infection Risk | Reduced risk of infection | Higher risk of infection |
How long does Shoulder Replacement surgery take?
Shoulder replacement surgery typically takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the individual patient’s condition.
Will I need to Stay in the Hospital Overnight?
Yes, most patients will need to stay in the hospital for at least one night for observation and initial recovery. The duration of the hospital stay may vary based on individual circumstances.
How soon can I return to Normal Activities after Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
Each case carries its own complications. Patients may start moving the shoulder for minor activities around 4-6 weeks, depending upon the doctor and physiotherapist’s review. However, full recovery will take time. Returning to all normal activities can take somewhere between 3-6 months.
Can shoulder Joint Problems Recur after Replacement Surgery?
While shoulder replacement surgery is highly effective, it is not guaranteed to prevent future joint problems. However, most patients experience significant and long-lasting relief from pain and improved joint function.
What should I do if I experience Severe Pain after the Surgery?
If you experience severe pain after shoulder replacement surgery, contact your surgeon or healthcare provider immediately. It could be a sign of complications that require prompt attention.
Is Shoulder Replacement Surgery covered by Insurance?
Most health insurance plans cover shoulder replacement surgery, but coverage may vary. When planning the surgery, make sure to check with your insurance provider.