What is Shoulder Replacement? - Dr. Sachin Karkamkar

What is Shoulder Replacement?

Arthritic Shoulder and Replaced Shoulder
A shoulder replacement (also called shoulder arthroplasty) might be more accurately termed a shoulder "resurfacing" because only the surface of the bones are actually replaced.

(Left) Severe osteoarthritis. (Right) The arthritic cartilage and underlying bone has been removed and resurfaced with metal implants. A plastic spacer has been placed in between the implants. 

Realistic Expectations

• More than 90% of people who have shoulder replacement surgery experience a dramatic reduction of shoulder pain and a significant improvement in the ability to perform common activities of daily living.
•  Recovery depends on age, fitness level and nature of procedure. There is a gradual return to the activities.
• Realistic activities following total shoulder replacement include low impact activities like those of wearing clothes ,shower ,house cleaning dusting and basic kitchen work  . High limit activities like gym ,lifting heavy weight are restricted and allowed only after medical advice.

Recent Advances in Shoulder Replacement Surgery

• Total shoulder Replacement
• Hemi shoulder replacement
• Reverse shoulder Replacement

Dr Sachin Karkamkar can provide you in detail guidance.

Surgery

• You will most likely be admitted to the hospital on the day/evening prior of your surgery.
• Anesthesia: After admission, you will be evaluated by a member of the anesthesia team. The most common are regional nerve block anesthesia/ general anesthesia (you are awake but your limb is numb and pain-free). The anesthesia team, with your input, will determine which type of anesthesia will be best for you.
• Procedure: The procedure itself takes approximately 1 to 2 hours. Your orthopedic surgeon will remove the damaged cartilage and bone, and then position the new metal and plastic implants to restore the alignment and function of your shoulder.

• Different types of shoulder implants are used to meet each patient's individual needs.