Total shoulder replacement, also called total shoulder arthroplasty, replaces damaged portions of the shoulder joint with artificial implants made of metal and plastic. The goal of the procedure is to reduce pain, improve motion, and restore function when joint damage significantly interferes with daily life.
Having performed more than 3,000 shoulder replacement procedures, Dr. Brian Cohen provides shoulder replacement surgery in Columbus, OH. Surgery may be considered for advanced shoulder arthritis, severe fractures, failed previous replacements, or arthritis associated with an irreparable rotator cuff tear. The condition of the joint and rotator cuff helps determine which type of replacement may be appropriate.
When is Shoulder Replacement Recommended?
Some patients may choose to first try to manage their condition with more conservative, nonsurgical treatment options. These options can include activity modifications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroid injections and/or physical therapy.
Total shoulder replacement is recommended when conservative management fails, and a patient’s activities of daily living are significantly impacted. This can be the result of severe pain and loss of function. The goal of shoulder replacement is to improve your quality of life.
People who benefit from shoulder replacement surgery often have:
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Severe shoulder pain that interferes with everyday activities
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Pain that may be severe enough to prevent a good night’s sleep
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Loss of motion or weakness in the shoulder that significantly impacts function
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Failure to significantly improve through alternative treatment options
Common conditions requiring total shoulder replacement include:
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Osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease
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Rheumatoid arthritis, where the synovial membrane surrounding the joint becomes inflamed and thickened, and leads to destruction of the shoulder joint
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Avascular necrosis, or the disruption of blood supply to the ball of the shoulder
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Irreparable rotator cuff tear
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Severe shoulder injuries, such as a broken bone
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Over 50,000 shoulder replacements are done in the United States each year.
Univers total shoulder
Univers™ Apex Surgical Technique
Univers total shoulder
Total Shoulder Replacement with Arthrex® Univers™ II
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Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement with Univers Revers™ System
Types of Shoulder Replacement Surgery
There are three primary types of shoulder replacement surgery: anatomic total shoulder replacement, partial shoulder replacement, and reverse total shoulder replacement.
Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement
In an anatomic total shoulder replacement, the interval between the deltoid and pectoral muscles is developed to create a path to the shoulder joint. The subscapularis tendon is then detached to provide access to the joint.
Dr. Cohen removes the damaged portions of the joint and inserts an artificial socket and ball. A stem may also be placed within the upper arm bone, depending on the implant system used. The tendon and incision are then repaired and closed.
Partial Shoulder Replacement
In a partial shoulder replacement, only the ball of the shoulder joint, also called the humeral head, is replaced. The natural shoulder socket is preserved.
Reverse Shoulder Replacement
In a reverse shoulder replacement, the positions of the ball and socket are switched. An artificial ball is attached to the shoulder socket, while a socket-shaped implant is placed on the upper arm side of the joint.
This design allows the deltoid muscle to play a greater role in moving the arm. Reverse shoulder replacement is commonly performed for irreparable rotator cuff tears, arthritis associated with severe rotator cuff damage, and certain complex shoulder fractures.
Potential Complications of Shoulder Replacement
Even very safe procedures have potential for risks and complications. Possible complications following total shoulder replacement include infection, nerve injury, and problems with the implants that may require revision surgery. Dr. Cohen will review the risks and benefits of shoulder replacement surgery specific to you and any existing medical co-morbidities that you have that could impact your recovery.
Shoulder Replacement Results
Shoulder replacement surgery is a very effective way to eliminate or significantly reduce shoulder pain and improve shoulder range of motion and function. The amount that range of motion increases will depend on factors such as how long the range of motion has been limited, whether the rotator cuff tendons were still intact and functional, and the patient’s active participation in the post-replacement rehabilitation program. Most patients are highly satisfied with the results of their total shoulder replacement.
Shoulder Replacement FAQs
There is no age limit to shoulder replacement — the shoulder problem and failure of other treatments drive the decision for shoulder replacement surgery. However, older adults may need approval from their primary care physician and require additional tests to ensure the procedure is the best path forward.
The average patient for total shoulder arthroplasty is middle-aged or older, but young men and women may also need shoulder replacement if they work physically demanding jobs such as construction. A severe accident or fall that causes traumatic injury, contact sports injuries, and certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis can damage the shoulder and require shoulder replacement to alleviate symptoms.
Dr. Cohen will complete your shoulder replacement using the latest techniques with advanced technologies such as the Univers™Apex total shoulder system. He has performed tens of thousands of orthopedic procedures and mentored more than 100 other orthopedic surgeons on enhanced surgical techniques. Dr. Cohen is board-certified in orthopedic surgery and believes in providing the safest healthcare environment for patients to reduce complications and optimize their results.
Shoulder replacement surgery often requires general anesthesia, which means a skilled and experienced anesthesiologist will administer anesthesia, so you’re asleep. You’ll wake up with a new shoulder, less pain, and a better quality of life. Sometimes, a regional anesthetic is an option for patients, so you’re awake but don’t feel anything in the surgical area.
Shoulder replacement typically takes around one hour, and you’ll spend a few hours in the recovery room for the anesthesia to wear off. The plan is to discharge you home the same day as surgery.
You may need pain medications for the first few days, but you should start to feel good with less pain and more mobility soon. Your physical therapy may start in the recovery room, and you’ll be sent home with an exercise program to help strengthen your new shoulder.
A sling will protect and support your shoulder, and the duration of use will depend on the procedure performed. It’s critical that you don’t lift anything or do forceful arm movements to avoid stress on the shoulder joint. That includes avoiding using your arm to push yourself up from a seated or lying position. Overusing your shoulder during recovery may limit joint mobility. You may use the arm to lift a glass of water, but nothing heavier for two to four weeks or until you’re cleared to do so.
Recovery from total shoulder arthroplasty takes about 6 to 12 weeks, and you’ll restart your normal activities slowly. Wait to resume driving and returning to a physically demanding job until you’ve spoken with Dr. Cohen about when it’s safe to perform these tasks.
Most patients are happy with their shoulder replacement results with restored motion and less pain (or no pain at all). Whether you regain full mobility depends on your anatomy, the circumstances of your injury and procedure, and your compliance with the recommended physical therapy program.
Why Choose Dr. Cohen?
OVER 25+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
One of the first orthopedic surgeons employed by a large hospital. Dr. Cohen spent 20 years.
TRUSTED BY OVER 100,000+ PATIENTS WORLDWIDE
Over his distinguished career, Dr. Cohen has cultivated a reputation of excellence and trust among his patients and his peers.
UTILIZING THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY
To achieve the best surgical outcomes, Dr. Cohen uses the most advanced technologies and techniques, keeping his practice state-of-the-art.
PATIENT SAFETY IS TOP PRIORITY
An individualized, patient-focused process coupled with decades of training and experience helps ensure maximum safety for all of Dr. Cohen’s patients.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery in Columbus, OH
Chronic shoulder pain, stiffness, weakness, and restricted movement can make daily activities increasingly difficult. Dr. Cohen evaluates the joint, rotator cuff, surrounding bone, and overall shoulder function to determine whether shoulder replacement surgery may be appropriate.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Brian Cohen, call (614) 788-0375.
