Shoulder Replacement

What is a Shoulder Replacement?

Shoulder replacement surgery is also called shoulder arthroplasty. This surgical procedure replaces the damaged or diseased parts of the shoulder joint with some artificial components (prosthetics). This surgery aims to alleviate pain, restore shoulder function, and make the overall quality of life better for patients with severe shoulder conditions. The procedure is especially recommended for individuals who have not responded to conservative treatments.

The shoulder joint is one of the ball-and-socket joints where the upper arm bone (humerus) fits into the shoulder blade (scapula). In a healthy shoulder, the cartilage that covers the ends of these bones allows for smooth, painless movement. However, various conditions cause the cartilage to wear down or become damaged, which results in stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility.

Symptoms

Shoulder replacement surgery is recommended for individuals who experience:

• Extreme shoulder pain that interferes with daily activities, such as reaching overhead, getting dressed, or sleeping,
• Shoulder pain that does not improve with treatments like medications, injections, or physical therapy,
• Stiffness or very limited range of motion in the shoulder joint,
• Weakness or loss of function in the shoulder and arm,
• Grinding, clicking, or creaking sounds in the shoulder joint (crepitus),
• Pain or discomfort that worsens with activity or weather changes.

Some other common health-related conditions that can lead to the need for shoulder replacement are:

• Osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease)
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Rotator cuff tear arthropathy
• Avascular necrosis (osteonecrosis)
• Severe fractures or traumatic injuries to the shoulder

What are the Types of Shoulder Replacements?

There are many types of shoulder replacement surgeries. Each type depends on the extent of the damage and the patient's individual needs:

1. Total Shoulder Replacement: This procedure works by replacing both the ball (humeral head) and the socket (glenoid) of the shoulder joint with prosthetic metal and plastic components.
2. Partial Shoulder Replacement: This procedure is also known as hemiarthroplasty. Partial shoulder replacement surgery replaces only the ball of the joint; however, the natural socket part remains intact. This option may be recommended for patients with intact rotator cuff tendons and minimal arthritis in the socket.
3. Reverse Shoulder Replacement: In this procedure, the positions of the ball and socket are switched. A metal ball is attached to the shoulder blade, and a plastic socket is fitted onto the upper arm bone. This type of replacement is often used for patients with severe rotator cuff tears who cannot undergo a traditional total shoulder replacement.

Procedure Details

Shoulder replacement surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes about 2-3 hours. The basic steps involved in the procedure are:

• • Incision: To access the joint, the surgeon makes an incision either on the front or the top of the shoulder.
  • Preparation: The damaged bone and cartilage are then removed from the humeral head and glenoid.
  • Prosthesis Placement: The prosthetic components are then inserted and secured in place using special cement or a press-fit technique.
  • Closure: The incision is closed either with sutures or staples. Then, the surgeon applies a sterile dressing. 

• Post-Operative Procedures: After the surgery, the patient is taken to a recovery room for monitoring. The arm is placed in a sling to protect the joint and promote healing.

The surgeon will provide detailed instructions for post-operative care, such as pain management, wound care, and activity restrictions. Full recovery may take several months, but most patients experience significant improvement in pain and mobility within the first few weeks after surgery.

Advantages of Shoulder Replacement Surgery

The main advantages of shoulder replacement surgery for patients with severe shoulder conditions:

• Significant reduction in shoulder pain,
• Improved range of motion and shoulder function,
• Enhanced ability to perform daily activities with ease,
• Better quality of sleep due to reduced pain and discomfort,
• Increased strength and stability in the shoulder joint,
• Long-lasting results, with most prosthetic joints lasting 15-20 years or more,
• Improved overall quality of life and independence,

Cost

The shoulder replacement surgery cost in India can vary depending on several factors:

• The type of replacement procedure (total, partial, or reverse)
• The choice of prosthetic components (material, brand, and design)
• The hospital and location where the surgery is performed
• The surgeon's experience and fees

The average cost of shoulder replacement surgery ranges from Rs. 2,00,000 to Rs. 5,00,000. The actual cost varies based on the case and the specific hospital. 

Apollo Spectra's team of highly skilled orthopedic surgeons is dedicated to providing personalized, state-of-the-art care for patients with shoulder conditions. If you are considering shoulder replacement surgery, consult with our experts today to discuss your options and take the first step towards a pain-free, active life.