Shoulder Replacement Surgery in Mumbai, India

Shoulder replacement is a procedure that attempts to eradicate the cause of pain and dysfunction by substituting artificial components known as prostheses for injured shoulder joint pieces. Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, rotator cuff tear arthropathy, and avascular necrosis are the most frequent causes of shoulder replacement surgery. The operation aims to boost your range of motion, increase your strength, reduce pain, and allow you to use your arm and shoulder.

Alternative Name

Shoulder Arthroplasty is a frequent term for shoulder replacement surgery. Reverse shoulder replacement describes some situations in which the shoulder joint is replaced in the opposite configuration. Both terms refer to the surgical procedure of replacing the injured shoulder joint with a prosthetic.

Types of Shoulder Replacements

Hemiarthroplasty

Only the ball and stem are changed during this process. The stem articulates with your natural socket and is attached to the ball.

Resurfacing Hemiarthroplasty

This entails using a cap-like prosthesis without a stem to replace the humeral head's joint surface.

Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement

A plastic cup replaces the arthritic joint in the glenoid socket, and a highly polished metal ball is attached to a stem on the humeral side.

Stemless Total Shoulder Arthroplasty

This total shoulder arthroplasty preserves bone by attaching the metallic ball to the upper arm without a stem.

Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement

In a reverse complete shoulder replacement, the joint is essentially inverted, with a plastic cup joined to the stem and transferred to the humerus, the upper arm bone, and a metal ball put where the glenoid socket once existed.

Preparation for Shoulder Replacement Surgery

• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy might help you heal quickly before surgery by increasing your shoulder muscles' strength and flexibility. Depending on your condition, your physiotherapist will suggest simple stretches and exercises.
• Diet and Hydration: Eat a healthy, balanced diet and drink enough water. A healthy diet helps in the recovery process.
• Reduce Alcohol and Smoking: Limit your alcohol intake and quit smoking. Smoking causes a greater risk of infections and delays the healing of wounds.

Pre-Surgery Preparation

Begin In Advance

• Your procedure will be planned ahead of time unless there is an emergency. You will have enough time to get ready and make plans for any particular assistance you might require after being released from the hospital if you know when your operation is scheduled.
• After discharge, having a companion to help you with your at-home workouts is important. You should attend physical therapy at least once or twice during your hospital stay with your companion. Although shoulder replacement surgery can be performed as an outpatient operation, you will typically spend one night in the hospital following the procedure to ensure that your pain is well-controlled and that you are stable before you leave.

Tests & Medicines

• One to two weeks before surgery, a battery of pre-operative tests will be planned. To make sure you are medically cleared to have surgery, they often involve a few blood tests, an electrocardiogram (EKG) that assesses the electrical activity of your heart, and a visit with a healthcare professional.
• Because they may make surgery more difficult, some drugs may be stopped, while others may need to be taken continuously. Unless otherwise directed, you should stop taking any anti-inflammatory drugs, including aspirin, one week prior to surgery.

The Day Before

Most patients stay at home or a nearby hotel the night before surgery. The following morning, they are admitted to the hospital. You will receive a call with the precise time and place to report the day before the procedure. You should not eat or drink anything after midnight on the day before your surgery.

Appropriate Anaesthetic

The anesthesiologist and your doctor will talk about the best kind of anaesthetic. The most common type is general anaesthesia, which involves administering drugs via intravenous (IV) to keep you calm, comfortable and tired. To reduce your postoperative discomfort, you will also have the option to add a regional or block anaesthetic to your anaesthesia.

Pre-Operative Medication

By monitoring your temperature, pulse, and blood pressure and giving you pre-operative medication, the nurses will get you ready for surgery. Dry mouth and sleepiness are possible side effects of these drugs. Before you enter the operating room, an IV, or intravenous line, for liquids, medicine, and antibiotics will be placed in your arm.

During Surgery

• You will encounter anesthesiologists, technicians, doctors, and nurses in the operating room. Due to the large number of individuals working inside, the space will appear crowded and slightly noisy.
• After that, you will be made comfortable on the operation table. The surgical site will be protected by a sterile surgical drape. Throughout the procedure, the anesthesiologist will stay by your side and monitor your health.

Post-Surgery

• You will be brought to the Post Anesthesia Recovery Unit (PACU) following surgery, where the anesthesiology staff and nurses will keep an eye on your vital signs and recuperation. An x-ray and a shoulder dressing will be applied.
• Depending on how you react to anaesthesia, you will be in the PACU for at least an hour. After you're stable, you'll be taken to a hospital room, where a nurse will examine you and put your arm in a sling for the next 24 hours.
• If the nerve block is unable to control your pain completely, you may need to take oral medicine. After 48 hours, you can shower and be encouraged to move around.
• For your shoulder replacement to be successful, a physical therapist will teach you exercises you may perform at home. Formal therapy is not necessary for most patients, but it might be in some situations.
• An occupational therapist will help you with assistive equipment to preserve your independence and safeguard your shoulder.

Risks Associated with Shoulder Replacement Surgery

1. Allergic Reaction To The Artificial Joint: The materials used in the joint implant may cause adverse reactions in the body.
   
   
2. Blood Vessel Damage: Blood vessels may be accidentally injured during surgery.
   
   
3. Bone Break During Surgery: The bone may fracture while the joint is being replaced.
   
   
4. Nerve Damage During Surgery: Nerves may be unintentionally harmed during the procedure.
   
   
5. Dislocation Of The Artificial Joint: The joint may become dislocated after surgery.
   
   
6. Loosening Of The Implant: The artificial joint may become loose with time.

Complications of Shoulder Replacement Surgery

• Infection: While serious infections may necessitate further surgery, minor infections in the wound region are managed with medication.
• Dislocation: If an implant dislocates after a reverse total shoulder replacement, surgery or closed reduction may be necessary to reduce or revise the implant.
• Other Problems With Prostheses: This includes wear and tear and even lost parts. Sometimes, more surgery is required.
• Nerve Injury: During surgery, nerves may sustain damage.

Why Choose Nanavati Max Hospital for Shoulder Replacement?

Nanavati Max Hospital provides expert care with skilled orthopaedic surgeons and advanced minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery. We offer personalised rehabilitation and follow-up care to ensure the best outcomes. Choose us for cutting-edge treatment and dedicated support throughout your recovery.

Outlook

Shoulder replacement surgery is a highly effective therapeutic option for patients with severe shoulder arthritis or other debilitating shoulder diseases that do not respond to conservative measures. The operation entails replacing injured shoulder joint pieces with prosthetic components, which reduces pain and improves mobility. The outlook after shoulder replacement is generally optimistic, with the majority of patients reporting significant pain alleviation and better function. However, full recovery can take several months, and physical therapy plays an important role in improving outcomes. With developments in surgical procedures and prosthetic designs, shoulder replacement has become a dependable alternative for restoring quality of life to patients suffering from severe shoulder joint problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which Doctor Looks After Shoulder Pain?

An orthopaedic specialist handles shoulder pain, specifically one focusing on shoulder care.

2. When Should I Have My Shoulder Replaced?

Shoulder replacement is considered when pain and limited mobility significantly affect daily activities and other failed treatments.

3. How Long Does a Shoulder Replacement Last?

A shoulder replacement can last 15-20 years, depending on factors like age, activity level, and implant type.

4. Is Shoulder Replacement Painful?

Some pain is expected after surgery, but it can be managed with medication and therapy.

5. What are The Signs That I Need a Shoulder Replacement?

Severe pain, stiffness, limited mobility, and difficulty performing daily activities are common signs.

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