What is Shoulder Replacement
A shoulder replacement, or shoulder arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which parts of the shoulder joint are replaced with artificial components. This surgery is typically performed to relieve pain and improve function in patients with severe arthritis or shoulder injuries.
Indications for Total Shoulder Replacement
- Severe osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Severe fractures of the shoulder
- Rotator cuff tear arthropathy
- Avascular necrosis
- Tumors in the shoulder region
What are the Types of Shoulder Replacement?
- Total Shoulder Replacement (Arthroplasty): This involves replacing both the ball (humeral head) and the socket (glenoid) of the shoulder joint 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, with the ball attached to the shoulder blade and the socket attached to the upper arm bone. This is often used in cases with severe rotator cuff damage.
