Difficulty in shoulder movements can be challenging for day-to-day activities. Treating all pains and shoulder problems is not a challenge anymore. Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty can be one of the treatments for shoulder arthritis. This is a procedure in which the normal ball and socket relationship of the glenohumeral joint is reversed, creating a more stable joint.
Surgical procedure
The surgical procedure can vary depending on the patient’s needs and the surgeon’s preferences. Before the surgery, the patient would be either given general anesthesia (will put the patient to sleep) or regional anesthesia (only the required area is numb).
The surgeon removes the affected or damaged bone and replaces the area with new components with the help of a prosthesis to restore the functioning of the shoulder. The components include a metal ball that is screwed into the shoulder socket and a plastic cup that is placed on the upper arm bone. This surgery will take approximately 2 hours.
Who should be treated?
Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty will be suggested for patients with the following signs or symptoms:
- Torn rotator cuff which cannot be repaired
- Unsuccessful shoulder surgery during the past
- Complex fracture in the shoulder joint
- Severe shoulder pain and difficulty with the shoulder movement
- Shoulder dislocation
- Tumour in shoulder joint
If any surgeries, treatments, and physical therapy could not improve the problems with the shoulder, then consult a doctor.
Outcomes of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty
With the help of an expert doctor, the shoulders can restore its comfort and stability as usual. The shoulder can return to the regular lifestyle slowly. There are more results once the surgery is completed, such as
- Lessens pain
- Improves shoulder movement
- Ability to sleep on the affected shoulder
- Ability to perform the daily activities with the affected shoulder
- Complications related to the surgery
If the patient is not examined correctly, there could be minor risks associated with the surgery:
- Infections
- Bleeding
- Nerve damage
- Pain
- Injury to blood vessels
- Dislocation
- Fracture
- Need for additional surgery
Tips during the recovery period
For a speedy recovery and comfort after the surgery, follow the below measures:
- Mandatorily use the medications prescribed by the doctor
- Avoid drinking & smoking while under medication
- Remain in the hospital for a few days after surgery for recovery treatments
- Advised limited use of the shoulder for a month
- Minimal exercises for the shoulder or as instructed by the surgeon
- Avoid lifting heavy objects
- Avoid sports activities
- Minimal movements until the sling is removed
Usually, the patient can return to the ordinary or the regular lifestyle after 6 weeks of surgery. Rehabilitation and physical therapy is a must for a speedy recovery and comfort of the patient.
Shoulder injuries are minimal, but severe damage needs to be treated at the appropriate time. The surgeries are cost-effective; hence, the process should not be delayed. At Chennai Orthopaedics, doctors provide the required guidelines and suggest the appropriate surgery for shoulder related issues or damages.
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Blog Reviewed By: Dr. Bharani Kumar Dayanandam
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