Orthopedics

Similar to other joint replacement procedures, shoulder replacement surgery is generally done to address persistent pain that is not controlled by non-surgical therapy. Less commonly, poor shoulder motion may also be a reason for replacement surgery.

The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint, with the top of the arm bone (humeral head) fitting into a socket known as the glenoid. Muscles and tendons, such as the rotator cuff, help hold the joint in place. Surgery involves replacing the humeral head and the glenoid with artificial components. The humeral head replacement is generally made from a metal alloy, while the glenoid component is made from polyethylene plastic. The new components may be anchored by cement or press-fit into place so that the bone grows in around them.

During surgery, a three- to four-inch incision is made along the space between the arm and the collarbone. The procedure lasts about 90 minutes and the incision is then closed with staples or stitches. Patients typically stay in the hospital for one to two nights, and full recovery usually takes six to 12 weeks.

This advanced technique is an excellent alternative to total shoulder replacement surgery. Unlike replacement, this option involves removal of practically no bone and is bone conserving. Naturally there is much less tissue damage and rehabilitation is faster and better. The reconstitution of the arthritic shoulder joint is much closer to normal after this operation. This is difficult to achieve with replacement surgery. Hence results of resurfacing are much better in terms of range of movement and function. Since small implants are used with less bone removal, it is easy to revise if ever required.

Copeland Resurfacing is the only resurfacing of the shoulder today with a long term history and track record