Anatomic Shoulder Replacement

Anatomic Shoulder replacement (also known as shoulder arthroplasty) is a procedure that replaces the damaged parts of the shoulder joint with artificial components made of metal and plastic. The goal is to relieve pain, restore strength, and improve range of motion.

Why Would I Have Shoulder Replacement?

Shoulder replacement is typically recommended when arthritis, injury, or wear and tear have caused severe damage to the shoulder joint, making it difficult to move your arm or perform daily tasks.

You may be a candidate for shoulder replacement surgery if you have:

• Osteoarthritis: Breakdown of cartilage, causing pain and stiffness
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Inflammation leading to joint damage
• Post-traumatic arthritis: Degeneration after an injury or fracture
• Avascular necrosis: Bone deterioration due to poor blood supply
• Complex shoulder fractures: Fractures that cannot be repaired with other methods

How Can This Surgery Help Me?

By replacing the damaged portions of your shoulder joint with smooth, durable implants, surgery can:

• Reduce or eliminate pain
• Improve mobility and strength
• Restore arm function for reaching, lifting, and everyday use
• Enhance quality of life and independence

Once fully recovered, many patients can return to low-impact sports and activities.

Are There Different Types of Shoulder Replacement?

There are several types of shoulder replacements. Your surgeon will determine which approach is best based on your age, anatomy, rotator cuff condition, and activity level.

• Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement
  • Both ball (humeral head) and socket (glenoid) are replaced
  • For patients with intact rotator cuff tendons and advanced arthritis
  • Restores smooth motion while preserving natural shoulder mechanics
• Reverse Shoulder Replacement (Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty)
  • Reverses the normal ball-and-socket structure of the joint: the ball is placed on the socket (glenoid) and the socket on the arm bone (humerus)
  • Allows the deltoid muscle to lift the arm when the cuff is severely damaged
  • Often used for rotator cuff tear arthropathy, failed previous shoulder surgeries, or complex fractures

What Type of Anesthesia Is Used?

Shoulder replacement surgery can typically be performed using regional anesthesia (a nerve block), which numbs the arm and shoulder while you remain in a light, “twilight” sleep, similar to a colonoscopy.

What Are the Risks?

As with any surgical procedure, shoulder replacement carries some potential risks, including:

• Bleeding or infection
• Nerve or blood vessel injury
• Anesthesia complications
• Implant loosening or wear over time
• Shoulder stiffness or instability
• Failure of the rotator cuff
• Need for revision surgery in the future

What Will My Recovery Involve?

• Recovery after shoulder replacement surgery is a gradual process that requires commitment to PT and home exercises.
• Hospital Stay: Most patients go home the same day, while others may stay 1–2 nights.
• Immobilization: Your arm will be placed in a sling for 2 weeks to allow healing.
• Come out of sling at home on POD 1 to fully move elbow, wrist, and fingers.
• Physical Therapy: Begins after 2 weeks to restore motion and prevent stiffness.
• Strengthening Phase: Light strengthening exercises usually start after 6–8 weeks.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Most patients regain functional use of their shoulder within 3 to 6 months, though full recovery and strength can take up to a year. Your recovery will depend on your age, health, and adherence to your rehabilitation plan.

What Improvements Can I Expect?

After successful surgery and rehabilitation, most patients experience:

• Significant pain relief
• Improved range of motion
• Better strength and function
• Ability to perform daily activities comfortably

Studies show that over 90% of patients report improved quality of life and high satisfaction after shoulder replacement.

What Are My Alternative Treatment Options?

Nonsurgical Treatments

• Physical therapy and activity modification
• Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS)
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation (you cannot have any injection within 3 months of your shoulder replacement surgery)
• Heat, ice, or topical treatments for pain relief

Surgical Treatments (Depending on Diagnosis)

• Arthroscopic debridement: Minimally invasive cleaning of the joint for mild arthritis

What Is the Outlook for Shoulder Replacement?

Shoulder replacement has an excellent long-term success rate. Most replacements last 15–20 years or more, and many patients can return to the activities they love with little or no pain.