Total shoulder replacement, also called total shoulder arthroplasty, replaces damaged portions of the shoulder joint with artificial components made of metal and plastic. The procedure may be considered when advanced joint damage causes persistent pain, stiffness, weakness, and difficulty performing everyday activities.
Having performed more than 3,000 shoulder replacement procedures, Dr. Brian Cohen provides total shoulder replacement in Columbus, OH. The goal of surgery is to reduce pain, improve shoulder motion, and help patients regain function when nonsurgical treatments no longer provide sufficient relief.
When Is Total Shoulder Replacement Recommended?
Shoulder replacement surgery may be recommended for several conditions, including:
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Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease
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Rheumatoid arthritis that has caused substantial joint damage
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Avascular necrosis, which occurs when disrupted blood supply damages the humeral head
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Severe shoulder fractures
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Advanced arthritis associated with an irreparable rotator cuff tear
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Failure of a previous shoulder replacement
The type of shoulder replacement recommended depends on the condition of the joint, rotator cuff tendons, surrounding bone, and other supporting structures. Patients with advanced arthritis and an intact rotator cuff may be candidates for an anatomic total shoulder replacement. Reverse shoulder replacement is more commonly considered when the rotator cuff is irreparable, a previous replacement has failed, or a complex fracture affects shoulder function.
Before surgery, patients may try nonsurgical treatments such as:
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Activity modification
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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication
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Corticosteroid injections
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Physical therapy
Shoulder replacement may be considered when these treatments no longer provide sufficient relief and symptoms substantially affect daily life. Patients who may benefit often experience:
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Severe pain that interferes with everyday activities
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Pain that disrupts sleep
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Significant loss of motion or shoulder strength
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Persistent symptoms despite nonsurgical treatment
Total Shoulder Replacement Preparation
Dr. Cohen will provide you with comprehensive instructions for preparing for total shoulder replacement. He will determine whether you need to stay overnight in the hospital or can return home after surgery. Dr. Cohen will review your medications and advise you as to whether you need to discontinue or adjust any of them. He will go over your anesthesia options and help you decide the best choice for your circumstances.
Univers™ Apex Surgical Technique
Total shoulder replacement is performed in an operating room. There are two types of shoulder replacement surgery: traditional (anatomic) total shoulder replacement and reverse total shoulder replacement.
Eclipse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty System
Types of Total Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Total shoulder replacement is performed in an operating room. There are two types of shoulder replacement surgery: traditional (anatomic) total shoulder replacement and reverse total shoulder replacement.
Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement
In an anatomic total shoulder replacement, Dr. Cohen will separate the deltoid and pectoral muscles and detach the subscapularis, one of the front muscles of the rotator cuff, to access the shoulder joint. He will then remove the arthritic sections of the joint; insert an artificial socket, ball, and stem; close and stitch the muscle; and clean and stitch the incision.
Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement
In a reverse total shoulder replacement, the positions of the ball and socket are switched. An artificial ball is attached to the shoulder socket, while a socket-shaped component is placed on the upper arm side of the joint.
This design allows the deltoid muscle to play a greater role in lifting and moving the arm, reducing the shoulder’s dependence on a functioning rotator cuff. Reverse shoulder replacement may be recommended for irreparable rotator cuff tears, arthritis associated with severe rotator cuff damage, failed shoulder replacement, or certain complex shoulder fractures.
Shoulder Replacement Potential Complications
A total shoulder replacement surgery is a very safe procedure. However, even very safe procedures carry a risk of potential complications. Possible complications following total shoulder replacement include infection, nerve injury, and problems with the implants that may require revision surgery. Each patient should discuss their individual risk factors with Dr. Cohen prior to surgery.
Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement with Univers Revers™ System
The animation shows a reverse total shoulder replacement for rotator cuff disease using a reverse shoulder replacement system.
Virtual Implant Positioning™ (VIP) System
The OrthoIllustrated® animation for the shoulder replacement system is an educational tool to help patients better understand this technology.
Shoulder Replacement Results
Shoulder replacement surgery can significantly reduce pain and improve shoulder function for appropriately selected patients. The amount of motion regained varies based on factors such as how long movement has been limited, the condition of the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles, the type of replacement performed, and the patient’s participation in postoperative rehabilitation.
Many patients experience meaningful improvements in comfort and their ability to perform everyday activities. Dr. Cohen will discuss the expected benefits and limitations of surgery based on the condition of the shoulder and the patient’s individual treatment goals.
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.
Total Shoulder Replacement in Columbus, OH
Chronic shoulder pain and restricted movement can make routine activities increasingly difficult. Dr. Cohen evaluates the condition of the joint, rotator cuff, surrounding bone, and overall shoulder function to determine whether an anatomic or reverse total shoulder replacement may be appropriate.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Brian Cohen, call (614) 788-0375.
