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Shoulder Replacement: Diagnosis, Surgery & Recovery

Shoulder replacement, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that helps to alleviate pain and improve function in damaged shoulder joints. Different types of replacements cater to specific conditions, offering a way to regain mobility and improve quality of life. If you’re experiencing ongoing shoulder discomfort despite traditional treatments, it is time to explore this option. At HeptaCare Health, our expert orthopedic doctors can help guide you through your options and the recovery process. Contact us today to book your appointment and find relief from your shoulder pain.

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What is Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

Like other joints in the body, the shoulder can become damaged over time due to conditions like arthritis, fractures, or rotator cuff tears. This damage can lead to severe pain and a loss of mobility, impacting your ability to perform daily activities. In such cases, your doctor may recommend a surgical procedure known as shoulder replacement or shoulder arthroplasty.

The procedure typically treats severe shoulder pain and disabilities caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, rotator cuff tear arthropathy, and avascular necrosis.

Shoulder replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged parts of your shoulder joint with an artificial component called a prosthesis. These new parts will help your shoulder move smoothly again. It is usually an outpatient procedure, but in some cases, you may have to spend a night in the hospital. However, carried out by experienced orthopaedic surgeons with advancements in medical sciences, this surgery offers the utmost safety and a high success rate.

Types of Shoulder Replacement

Shoulder replacement comes in different forms, each catering to unique conditions and circumstances. Here are the main types of shoulder replacements:

  • Total Shoulder Replacement: In this procedure, both the arthritic ball (head of the humerus) and socket (glenoid) are replaced with artificial components. This is the most common type of shoulder replacement surgery. 
  • Hemiarthroplasty: Only the head of the humerus is replaced with a metal component. The socket is left alone. This procedure may be chosen if the socket has healthy cartilage or if the bone is deficient.
  • Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement: Also known as reverse shoulder arthroplasty, this procedure involves switching the positions of the socket and metal ball. This treatment option is used when the rotator cuff is torn beyond repair, for complex fractures, failed previous replacements, or severe shoulder arthritis.
  • Resurfacing Hemiarthroplasty: In this procedure, instead of completely replacing the humeral head, it’s capped with a metal component that fits over the existing bone. The socket is left as it is. Resurfacing allows the preservation of more of your own bone.

The choice among these options is based on several factors, including your age, activity level, bone health, and the condition of your rotator cuff.

Diagnosing The Need For Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Before proceeding with a shoulder replacement surgery, it’s critical to diagnose the condition causing severe shoulder pain. Your family doctor will assess your medical history, observe your symptoms, and perhaps carry out various tests. These may include:

  • Physical Examination: The doctor thoroughly checks for any visible abnormalities or changes in the shoulder. Pain levels during rest and activity, and difficulties in doing everyday tasks or raising the arm, are noted.
  • Checking your sleeping patterns: Discomfort while sleeping on the affected shoulder often indicates serious issues.
  • X-rays: To confirm significant arthritis, which is indicated by the loss of joint space in the shoulder joint.
  • CT scan or MRI: These might be necessary to evaluate the joint further if x-rays aren’t conclusive.

Procedure For Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Shoulder replacement surgery, including reverse shoulder arthroplasty, is a complex procedure designed to restore function and relieve pain in damaged shoulders. It generally involves the following steps:

  • Firstly, the patient is prepared for surgery. The arthritic ball and socket are carefully removed and replaced with a metal ball attached to the humerus and a plastic socket component.
  • The ball and socket components may be cemented or press-fit into the bone.
  • To gain access to the shoulder, surgeons separate the deltoid and pectoral muscles in a nerve-free area.
  • One of the rotator cuff tendons is cut to facilitate access to the arthritic joint.
  • Once the arthritic sections are removed, new components are inserted, and the cut rotator cuff is repaired.
  • Finally, a sling and sterile dressing are applied, and the incision is closed.

Generally, this surgery takes about 1–3. The shoulder surgery recovery time varies depending on individual health factors. It alleviates severe shoulder pain and disability caused by arthritis, rotator cuff tears, or fractures.

Who Is The Ideal Candidate For Shoulder Replacement?

Deciding whether a patient should undergo shoulder replacement surgery depends on the individual’s symptoms, the degree of impairment, and its impact on daily activities and quality of life. The ideal candidate for this surgery usually meets the following criteria:

  • Experiences persistent pain in the shoulder even while resting.
  • Suffers from severe pain that worsens with everyday activity or arm movement.
  • Difficulty sleeping due to shoulder discomfort.
  • Demonstrates considerable weakness, instability, or loss of motion in the shoulder.
  • X-rays confirm significant arthritis, displayed by a loss of joint space in the shoulder joint.
  • Non-surgical treatments such as medications and physiotherapy fail to relieve pain and improve shoulder function, so surgery becomes an option.

Remember, your family doctor will guide you on the best course of action after thoroughly assessing your condition.

What Are The Benefits Of Shoulder Replacement?

Shoulder pain can be an enormous strain on your life, affecting not only your physical movements but also your emotional well-being. Shoulder replacement surgery could be a viable solution for you. Some of its key benefits include:

  • A significant reduction or even total elimination of your shoulder pain.
  • Improved range of motion and function within your shoulder joint, allowing you to move more freely.
  • Increased ability to perform daily activities and return to your normal lifestyle.
  • Enhanced independence and restored personal mobility, significantly improving your day-to-day life.
  • Improved overall quality of life that comes from being healthier and more active.

How To Prepare For Shoulder Replacement?

Preparing for shoulder replacement surgery is a crucial step towards successful treatment. Here are some steps you should take:

  • Ensure there are no active infections that could delay surgery.
  • Resolve any skin problems like rashes, acne, or scratches on the shoulder.
  • Inform your surgeon of all medical conditions and medications. 
  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the day before surgery.
  • If you have any medical issues like high blood pressure or diabetes, these need to be well controlled before surgery.
  • Understand that medical issues may cause a delay in surgery.

What Are The Recovery Tips And Precautions To Follow After Shoulder Replacement?

Post-surgery, the recovery time may vary depending on several factors. However, here are some general tips to assist in a smooth recovery:

  • Adhere to the prescribed physical therapy plan: To regain strength and range of motion in your shoulder.
  • Safeguarding the shoulder: Use a sling to protect the shoulder while it heals. 
  • Resting the arm: Avoid heavy lifting or straining your shoulder muscles for the first few weeks.
  • Avoid sudden movements: Be mindful not to make sudden movements or jerk your arm. 
  • Gradual progress: Slowly increase your activity levels under the guidance of your surgeon and physical therapist. 
  • Maintain a healthy weight: To reduce stress on the new joint.

Potential Risks Or Complications Associated With Shoulder Replacement

Like any surgical procedure, shoulder replacement surgery carries potential risks or complications. Let’s consider some:

  • Postoperative pain and stiffness in the shoulder
  • Infections that could occur after the surgery 
  • Nerve injury due to surgical procedures 
  • Fracture or dislocation of the upper arm bone during or after surgery
  • Problems with wound healing

It is essential to discuss your concerns thoroughly with your doctor. When taken with the necessary precautions, shoulder replacements can significantly improve the quality of life for those with severe shoulder arthritis or injuries.

When to consult a doctor after medical termination of pregnancy?

  • Shoulder replacement surgery is a common procedure performed in India to alleviate chronic shoulder pain and improve mobility. The average cost for this procedure in India varies widely due to several factors:

    • Hospital: The type of hospital chosen for the surgery can significantly impact the cost. Private hospitals with advanced facilities may charge more than government hospitals.
    • Surgeon:The surgeon’s qualifications, experience, and reputation can also affect their price. Highly skilled and renowned surgeons often charge higher fees.
    • Implant: The type of implant used for the shoulder replacement also plays a part in the overall cost. Different types and brands of implants come with different prices.

    City: The city where the surgery takes place can also affect the price. Metropolitan cities may have higher costs compared to smaller cities or towns.

Is Shoulder Replacement Covered Under Insurance?

In India, most private insurance plans, as well as government insurance schemes, cover the cost of shoulder replacement surgery, as it is considered medically necessary in many cases. Here are some key points to understand:

  • Coverage depends on the specific plan and provider. Typically, most insurance plans cover hospitalisation, surgeon fees, implant costs, post-operative physical therapy, and follow-up visits with the surgeon. 
  • However, patients might need to deal with out-of-pocket expenses such as deductibles, copays, and costs exceeding the coverage limit. 
  • Certain exclusions might apply. Insurance plans do not usually cover costs if the surgery is deemed elective or unnecessary by the insurance company or for complications arising from negligence or non-compliance with post-operative instructions.

Therefore, it’s crucial to review your insurance policy details, get pre-authorisation, and discuss anticipated out-of-pocket costs with your insurance provider before scheduling a shoulder replacement surgery. This will help you better prepare for the shoulder surgery recovery time and manage your finances diligently.

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