total shoulder replacement in San Antonio

Types of Total Shoulder Replacement

There are several approaches to Total Shoulder Replacement, and the best option depends on the condition of the shoulder joint and the health of the rotator cuff.

• Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement -This approach replaces the damaged ball-and-socket joint with implants that mimic the natural structure of the shoulder. It is typically recommended when the rotator cuff is healthy and the main issue is joint damage from arthritis or injury.

• Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement - In this technique, the position of the ball and socket is reversed to allow the deltoid muscle to lift the arm instead of the damaged rotator cuff. This option is ideal for patients with severe rotator cuff tears, rotator cuff arthropathy, or complex shoulder injuries.

• Partial Shoulder Replacement - Also known as hemiarthroplasty, this procedure replaces only the ball of the shoulder joint. It is used in select cases, often when the socket is healthy or when certain types of fractures occur.

What to Expect During Surgery

Total Shoulder Replacement follows a structured process to ensure the best possible outcome. While each patient’s needs are unique, surgery generally includes the following steps:

• Preoperative Evaluation - Your orthopedic specialist reviews your medical history, examines your shoulder, and orders imaging to plan the procedure.

• Anesthesia - General anesthesia or regional nerve block is used to ensure comfort throughout the surgery.

• Removal of Damaged Bone - The surgeon removes the worn or arthritic surfaces from the ball and socket of the shoulder joint.

• Placement of Implants - A metal ball and stem are placed into the upper arm bone, and a durable socket implant is secured to the shoulder blade to restore smooth movement.

• Closing the Incision - Once the implants are positioned, the incision is closed and a dressing is applied to protect the area as healing begins.

Recovery After Total Shoulder Replacement

Recovery is a gradual process, and understanding the timeline helps patients know what to expect during each stage of healing.

• Initial Healing Period - Pain improves significantly during the first few days and weeks as swelling decreases and tissues begin to recover.

• Sling Use - A sling is typically worn for several weeks to protect the shoulder and support early healing.

• Gradual Return of Movement - Patients begin gentle motion exercises to restore flexibility under the guidance of their orthopedic team.

• Strengthening Phase - As healing progresses, strengthening exercises are introduced to rebuild shoulder stability and function.

• Typical Recovery Timeline - Most patients notice significant improvement by 6 weeks, increased strength by 3 months, and continued progress up to 6 months or longer.

Choosing the right type of Total Shoulder Replacement is essential for restoring strength, reducing pain, and helping you return to the activities you enjoy.