Shoulder Joint Replacement is successful procedure in relieving pain and restoring motion in patient with chronic shoulder pain, stiffness or disability.

It is indicated in cases of –

• End stage shoulder joint arthritis.
• Where nonsurgical treatment is no longer effective.
• Multiple fractures non amenable for proper fracture fixation.
• Damage caused by old infection or decreased blood circulation.
• Poor result from previous shoulder surgery.
• Badly damaged or torn tissue.
• Tumor in and around the shoulder joint.

 Understanding Shoulder Joint

Shoulder joint is a ball and socket joint where ball is formed by upper end of arm bone (humerus) and socket or a glenoid cavity is formed by shoulder blade (scapula). The surfaces of these two bones where they join are covered with a covering known as cartilage. Cartilage acts as a cushion and also provides smooth surface for gliding of two surfaces and thus causes less friction. The surrounding muscle, tendon and ligaments provide stability and motion to the joint.

Types of Shoulder Replacement Surgery

In can be either a partial joint replacement or total joint replacement.

Partial Shoulder Replacement Surgery

In cases where only the head of humerus is diseased or damaged, partial shoulder replacement is performed. It involves removing the damaged portion of head of humerus and replacing it with artificial metal prosthesis.

Total shoulder replacement

This procedure is done in cases where the head and socket both are diseased and damaged. It involves replacing both head and socket with artificial imported metals and plastic which are durable and long lasting. Shoulder replacement surgery relieves pain and stiffness and one should be able to resume daily activities within few weeks after the procedure. Many people are able to return to sports like golf, swimming, cycling, bowling, gardening, yoga etc. If you are exploring treatment options for your chronic shoulder problem or have already decided for shoulder joint replacement, you may contact us for better understanding of your shoulder problem.