ANATOMICAL SHOULDER REPLACEMENT
- Method
- Implantation of an anatomical shoulder joint replacement
- Duration
- about 90-120 minutes
- Recovery time
- 3 to 6 months
What is an anatomical shoulder replacement?
The anatomical shoulder replacement is an artificial joint that reproduces the natural anatomy of the shoulder. It is used with severe osteoarthritis, extensive cartilage damage or changes following injury, when joint-preserving measures are no longer enough.
The replacement consists of two main components: a metal ball for the head of the upper arm and a socket (usually plastic) for the glenoid. For this form of replacement the rotator cuff must be largely intact.
Indications
- Advanced osteoarthritis of the shoulder (omarthrosis)
- Changes following injury with destruction of the joint
- Osteonecrosis of the humeral head
- Rheumatoid arthritis with an intact muscle and tendon apparatus
How the operation proceeds
- General or regional anaesthetic
- Anterior approach to the shoulder through the deltoid muscle
- Exposure of the shoulder joint, removal of the damaged parts of the joint
- Precise placement and fixation of the components of the replacement
- Reconstruction of the joint capsule and the soft-tissue structures
Rehabilitation after an anatomical shoulder replacement
Phase I (0-3 weeks): immobilisation and wound healing
- Sling for 2-3 weeks to take the load off
- Cooling, pain management, lymphatic drainage
- Passive mobilisation exercises under physiotherapy guidance
- Avoiding load-bearing and active movement
Phase II (4-8 weeks): active mobilisation
- Increasing the range of movement with active assistance
- Building up the shoulder muscles
- Stability training for the rotator cuff
- Bringing simple everyday tasks back in
Phase III (from week 9): load-bearing and function
- Targeted strengthening of the shoulder and back muscles
- Improving co-ordination and the way the joint is guided
- Training for everyday life and for work
- Return to sporting activity once cleared