Reverse Shoulder Replacement
Office Location
Roseville
- 584 N. Sunrise Ave. Suite 140 Roseville, CA 95661
Folsom
- 1625 Creekside Drive Suite 200 Folsom, CA 95630
Dr. McClintock Services
Please Call Dr. McClintock’s Office at (916) 365-2987 for an Appointment
Reverse shoulder replacement is a surgical option for individuals with severe shoulder issues where traditional replacements fail, such as in cases of significant rotator cuff damage. It reconfigures the shoulder joint, relying on the deltoid muscle for movement.
What is Reverse Shoulder Replacement?
Reverse shoulder replacement is a surgical procedure where the damaged shoulder is replaced with a prosthetic version. This procedure is primarily designed to stabilize the joint and compensate for dysfunctional rotator cuff tendons, which are essential for shoulder movements.
Unlike total shoulder replacement, reverse shoulder replacements alter the shoulder anatomy by switching the positions of the ball and socket. This change allows the deltoid muscle to take over movements typically controlled by the rotator cuff. This procedure can be particularly helpful for patients who have extensive rotator cuff damage.
Conditions Treated by Reverse Shoulder Replacement
Reverse shoulder replacement can be especially beneficial for patients with large rotator cuff tears and cuff tear arthropathy. These conditions can cause significant pain and instability in the shoulder, making basic activities difficult. The procedure is designed for cases where traditional replacements are not effective.
Common indications for reverse shoulder replacement include massive rotator cuff tears and advanced shoulder arthritis. Patients with these conditions often experience chronic pain and limited shoulder mobility. This procedure helps maintain shoulder joint function, even in the absence of a healthy rotator cuff.
This procedure offers hope for patients who have struggled with persistent shoulder pain and dysfunction, providing a chance to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve their quality of life.
The Reverse Shoulder Replacement Procedure
The reverse shoulder replacement procedure involves replacing the damaged shoulder joint with an artificial prosthetic designed to improve function. The surgery itself typically takes less than two hours. The aim is to create a stable and functional joint that can perform everyday tasks with minimal discomfort.
During the surgery, the damaged bone and cartilage are removed, and the artificial joint is positioned. The goal of the procedure is to not only address the immediate issue of shoulder pain, but also to provide long-term benefits in mobility and strength restoration.
Preoperative Preparations
Dr. McClintock specializes in this procedure and can evaluate the patient to determine if they may be a suitable candidate for this surgery. This evaluation includes assessing the severity of the pain and the extent of shoulder damage.
Ahead of the surgery, you will receive detailed information about the process and have the opportunity to discuss any questions and concerns.
Surgical Steps
The reverse shoulder replacement surgery involves the following steps:
- Administration of general anesthesia
- Removal of the damaged bone and cartilage
- Replacement of artificial components made from durable materials
These surgical techniques are carefully planned and executed to ensure the best possible outcome for the patient.
Postoperative Care
After surgery, patients are monitored in a recovery room to ensure they are stable and comfortable before either being cleared for discharge or kept overnight. During this time, the care team monitors vital signs and pain levels, and pain management often includes medication to ensure patient comfort.
Follow-up appointments are scheduled to address any patient concerns and ensure that recovery is progressing as expected.
Recovery Process After Reverse Shoulder Replacement
The recovery process after reverse shoulder replacement typically takes several months, with a focus on gradual improvement and physical rehabilitation. The expected timeline for full recovery during the recovery period is around six months, during which patients often experience enhanced joint performance and greater ease in daily activities.
Initial Recovery Phase
During the initial recovery phase, patients should:
- Keep their arm in a sling for several weeks after surgery to protect the shoulder joint.
- Refrain from heavy lifting and high-impact activities.
- Avoid movements that put strain on the shoulder joint.
Gentle motion exercises are generally encouraged soon after surgery to maintain mobility in the hand and elbow and promote circulation. Post-surgery limitations can vary based on individual factors such as age, general health, and shoulder condition.
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
Physical therapy is essential for regaining range of motion and strength after the initial recovery phase. Patients will follow a structured rehabilitation plan, guided by a physical therapist, to help them gradually progress toward their movement and strength goals. This rehabilitation process often leads to a marked enhancement in both shoulder mobility and overall joint function.
Long-term Recovery
Patients are often able to resume most normal activities after about three months, though specific timelines depend on individual progress. Many individuals report an improvement in their ability to engage in physical activities they found difficult before the surgery. Follow-up care remains essential for managing any ongoing issues.
Benefits of Reverse Shoulder Replacement
One of the primary benefits of reverse shoulder replacement is pain relief. Many patients experience a reduction in shoulder pain, allowing them to return to normal daily activities and enjoy a more active lifestyle. The procedure has also been shown to lead to improved shoulder function, enabling patients to perform tasks that were previously difficult or impossible.
For many qualified patients, shoulder replacement surgery can provide substantial pain relief, improved shoulder function, and enhanced quality of life. If you or a loved one is struggling with chronic shoulder pain and limited mobility, consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. McClintock to discuss treatment options.
