Shoulder Arthroplasty
Shoulder arthroplasty, more commonly known as shoulder replacement surgery, is a proven treatment for patients suffering from severe shoulder pain and limited mobility due to arthritis, injury, or other degenerative conditions. This surgery can significantly reduce shoulder pain, improve range of motion, and enhance overall quality of life. Dr. Seiter offers a range of advanced shoulder arthroplasty techniques, each tailored to the unique needs of the patient to optimize outcomes.
Types of Shoulder Arthroplasty Procedures
Shoulder arthroplasty may include any of the following techniques:
Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (Total Shoulder Replacement)
Total shoulder replacement is the most common form of shoulder arthroplasty. It involves replacing the joint—both the humeral head (the ball) and the glenoid (the socket)—with prosthetic components. This procedure is ideal for patients with severe arthritis or joint damage, and it can provide significant pain relief and greatly improve joint function.
Reverse Shoulder Replacement
Reverse shoulder replacement is designed for patients with severe arthritis and a damaged or nonfunctional rotator cuff. This unique approach reverses the ball-and-socket mechanics of the joint, allowing the deltoid muscle to take over the function of the rotator cuff. Doing so restores joint mobility and reduces shoulder pain.
Anatomic Shoulder Replacement
Anatomic shoulder replacement replaces the damaged joint surfaces while preserving the shoulder’s natural biomechanics, leading to improved strength and range of motion. As this procedure replicates the natural structure of the shoulder joint, it is an excellent option for patients with intact rotator cuffs.
Revision Shoulder Replacement
Revision shoulder replacement addresses complications or wear from a previous shoulder replacement. This complex procedure involves replacing or repairing prosthetic components to restore function and alleviate pain, ensuring long-term joint health.
Partial Shoulder Replacement & Hemiarthroplasty
Partial shoulder replacement, or hemiarthroplasty, involves replacing only the humeral head while preserving the natural socket part of the shoulder joint. This procedure is often recommended for specific types of fractures or localized joint damage. It offers pain relief and helps to maintain as much natural joint function as possible.
Candidates for Shoulder Arthroplasty
Candidates for shoulder arthroplasty typically experience:
- Chronic/severe shoulder pain and stiffness that limits daily activities
- Persistent pain despite non-surgical treatments like physical therapy or medication
- Significant loss of shoulder mobility (such as reduced ability to lift the arm or reach overhead)
- Joint damage due to arthritis, fractures, or rotator cuff tears
- Swelling or tenderness in the joint
- Grinding, locking, or popping sensations in the shoulder
- Pain that interferes with sleep
- Pain that worsens with activity or persists at rest
Dr. Seiter will conduct a thorough evaluation with imaging tests to determine whether shoulder arthroplasty (and which surgical technique) is the right option for you.
Recovery After Shoulder Arthroplasty
Recovery from shoulder arthroplasty typically involves a combination of rest, physical therapy, and gradual return to activities. Pain and swelling should begin to taper off after a few days but may take a few weeks to significantly subside. Most patients will have to wear a sling for several weeks. Most patients will begin physical therapy within a few days after surgery.
Patients can usually resume light daily activities (including driving) after 4-6 weeks. A full return to normal activities, including sports, may be possible within 3-6 months, depending on the procedure and individual healing rate. Dr. Seiter and your care team will provide you with a detailed recovery plan to help you regain strength, mobility, and confidence in your shoulder.