Reverse Shoulder Replacement

What is reverse shoulder replacement?

Reverse shoulder replacement surgery is a procedure that replaces damaged parts of your shoulder joint with artificial components. During reverse shoulder replacement, your provider places the ball portion of the new joint on the socket side of your body. They place the socket part of the artificial joint on the arm side, supported by a metal stem in your arm bone.

In comparison, standard shoulder joint replacement surgery attaches a metal ball to the upper part of your arm and the new artificial socket to your shoulder blade. This more closely mimics the natural anatomy of your shoulder joint. 

Who is a candidate for a reverse shoulder replacement?

You may be a candidate for a reverse shoulder replacement if you have severe pain that hinders your ability to comfortably complete everyday activities. It’s sometimes encouraged if other treatments (physical therapy, medications, injections, etc.) haven’t eased your discomfort or if you develop shoulder weakness without full range of motion in your arm. 

Many people receive a standard shoulder joint replacement, but reverse shoulder replacement surgery may be a better option if you have a specific injury, particularly a rotator cuff problem. You might be a candidate for reverse shoulder replacement if you experience any of the following.

• Torn or malfunctioning rotator cuff
• Ongoing shoulder pain
• Arthritic shoulder joint damage
• Shoulder fracture
• Previous standard shoulder replacement that hasn’t eased your pain
• Tumors in the proximal humerus (upper arm bone)

However, you might not be a candidate for the procedure if you have too little remaining shoulder socket bone or persistent shoulder infections.

Am I a candidate for reverse shoulder replacement surgery?

Your Restoration Orthopedics surgeon discusses your medical history, lifestyle, and symptoms to determine if shoulder surgery is right for you. They also complete a physical exam, heart function testing, blood tests, and imaging procedures.

What happens during a reverse shoulder replacement?

Follow your surgeon’s instructions to prepare for the procedure. This might include stopping certain medications, making arrangements for someone to drive you home, and avoiding food and drink the morning of your scheduled procedure. 

You receive anesthesia to eliminate discomfort and help you fall asleep. Your surgeon uses robotic arms or other advanced technologies to make an incision, remove damaged joint parts, and replace them with sturdy artificial components. The surgery might last several hours.

What can I expect afterward?

Afterward, you rest in a recovery area and might stay in the surgical center for a few days. Follow your post-care instructions to ensure effective healing and optimal results. Complete physical therapy, take any medications as directed, and follow up with your Restoration Orthopedics surgeon as needed. Your new shoulder joint may last for decades.

Schedule an evaluation today at Restoration Orthopedics by phone or online to find out if reverse shoulder replacement is right for you.