Shoulder Replacement

Shoulder replacement is performed either under general or regional anesthesia. There are two types of procedure – partial and total shoulder replacement. During total shoulder replacement, the head of joint is replaced with a humeral component. It is composed of rounded and polished part which will serve as a joint head and a stem which is inserted into upper arm bone.  The shoulder socket is smoothed and plastic glenoid component is attached. While performing partial shoulder replacement only one part of joint is replaced with prosthesis.

The type of surgery depends on certain situation. The erosion level of lining cartilage, space between bones, activity of inflammation and the origin of joint damage are factors of interest.

When is shoulder replacement necessary?

Shoulder replacement is a last resort treatment for severely damaged shoulder joint. Physiologically, joint surface is lined with smooth and strong cartilage which allows movements through a wide range of motion. However, due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or severe joint trauma, lining cartilage becomes thin and rough. As a result, it is painful to move and it limits and disturbs daily activities. In such case shoulder replacement is an option. It will not only relieve unwanted symptoms but also will protect from further joint damage.

Shoulder anatomy

The joint is composed of two parts – head, upper arm bone and socket which is formed by a part of shoulder blade. Joint surface is covered with articular cartilage and synovial membrane. These structures protect bones from touching each other and enable smooth movements. Stability and support is ensured by structures surrounding joint. It includes firm tendons and muscles.

Although shoulder joint is one of the largest joints in the body, it supports relatively small amount of weight. As a result, shoulder is rarely affected by diseases but if you have a disorder, symptoms may appear just at its final stages.