Shoulder replacement, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to replace damaged or diseased parts of the shoulder joint with artificial components (prosthetics). It is often performed to relieve pain, improve mobility, and restore function in individuals with severe shoulder joint conditions.
Anatomy of the Shoulder
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint where:
- The humeral head (upper arm bone) forms the ball.
- The glenoid (part of the shoulder blade) forms the socket.
- These components are cushioned by cartilage, which wears away from conditions such as arthritis or injury.
Types of Shoulder Replacement
1) Total Shoulder Replacement (Anatomic):
- Replaces the ball (humeral head) and socket (glenoid) with a prosthesis.
- A rotator cuff tendon is used when both the ball and socket are damaged but the tendons are intact.
2) Reverse Shoulder Replacement:
- The positions of the ball and socket are reversed, with the ball attached to the shoulder blade and the socket to the upper arm bone.
- Often used in patients with torn rotator cuff tendons or severe osteoarthritis.
3) Partial Shoulder Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty):
- Only the humeral head is replaced, leaving the natural socket intact.
- Suitable for certain fractures or arthritis limited to the ball.
4) Resurfacing Shoulder Arthroplasty:
- It involves replacing only the damaged surface of the humeral head with a cap-like prosthesis.
- Preserves more bone compared to traditional alternatives.
Indications for Shoulder Replacement
- Osteoarthritis: Wear-and-tear arthritis leading to joint degeneration.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Inflammatory arthritis causing joint damage.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis following an injury.
Severe Shoulder Fractures: Complex breaks in the humerus. - Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy: Arthritis caused by massive rotator cuff tears.
- Avascular Necrosis: Loss of blood supply to the bone, causing joint collapse.
Procedure
The surgery typically involves:
1) Removing damaged bone and cartilage.
2) Replacing these with prosthetic components made of metal, plastic, or ceramic.
3) Aligning and securing the components for optimal function.
Benefits and Risks
Benefits:
- Pain relief.
- Improved mobility and strength.
- Better quality of life.
Risks:
- Infection.
- Blood clots.
- Prosthetic loosening or wear.
- Nerve or blood vessel damage.
A consultation with an orthopedic surgeon can help determine the most appropriate type of shoulder replacement based on individual needs.