Shoulder & Reverse Shoulder Replacement
Shoulder replacement surgery is a procedure that involves replacing a damaged or arthritic shoulder joint with artificial components. There are two main types of shoulder replacement surgeries: traditional shoulder replacement (anatomic shoulder replacement) and reverse shoulder replacement.
Shoulder Replacement (Anatomic Shoulder Replacement)
- Indications: Hemi hip replacement is typically recommended in cases where only the femoral head (the ball-shaped top of the thigh bone) is damaged or needs to be replaced. Common indications include fractures of the femoral neck, often seen in elderly patients with osteoporosis.
- Procedure: During hemiarthroplasty, the surgeon removes the damaged femoral head and replaces it with a prosthetic implant. The implant consists of a metal ball that is attached to a stem, which is inserted into the femoral shaft. The hip socket (acetabulum) remains unchanged.
- Outcome: The goal of hemiarthroplasty is to alleviate pain, restore hip joint function, and provide stability, particularly in cases of fractures.
Reverse Shoulder Replacement
- Indications: Reverse shoulder replacement is typically recommended for individuals with certain types of shoulder conditions, such as massive rotator cuff tears, severe shoulder arthritis with a deficient rotator cuff, or failed previous shoulder surgeries.
- Procedure: In a reverse shoulder replacement, the positions of the ball and socket components are reversed compared to the natural shoulder anatomy. The metal ball is attached to the shoulder blade, and the plastic socket is attached to the upper end of the humerus. This reversal of components changes the mechanics of the shoulder, allowing other muscles around the shoulder to compensate for the deficient rotator cuff.
- Outcome: Reverse shoulder replacement is designed to improve shoulder stability and function in cases where the rotator cuff is not functioning effectively. It can be particularly beneficial for individuals with complex shoulder problems.
Both types of shoulder replacement surgeries aim to relieve pain, improve joint function, and enhance the patient's overall quality of life. The choice between anatomic and reverse shoulder replacement depends on the specific shoulder condition and the individual's anatomy. Orthopedic surgeons assess each patient individually to determine the most appropriate surgical approach based on their unique circumstances.
