Total Shoulder Replacement Surgery

July 13, 2018

When the damage to your shoulder is extensive and can’t be effectively repaired with rotator cuff surgery or other treatment options, Dr. Razzano and the staff of Beacon Orthopaedics offer shoulder replacement surgery as an alternative. If you live in the greater Dayton area, contact Dr. Razzano’s office to find out if shoulder replacement surgery is an option for you.

What is involved in a shoulder replacement surgery?

A shoulder replacement surgery is similar to a knee replacement procedure, with minor changes due to the joint being a ball and socket instead of a hinge.

Dr. Razzano replaces the head of the humerus with a metal ball the same size and shape as the bone that was removed. He also replaces the the socket portion of the joint with a smooth piece of plastic that’s similar in shape to what was removed.

Dr. Razzano then reattaches the connective tissues and muscles, and the shoulder is closed. The majority of ball and socket joint replacements are made of a combination of metal and plastic that allows for very fluid, smooth movement in almost every direction.

How long does a replacement surgery take to heal?

A shoulder replacement surgery takes approximately three months to heal fully. At that point, you can resume regular activities, but it’s important that you refrain from driving and other activities that cause stress or strain on the joint. While the bones will begin to heal rather quickly, it will take much longer for the connective tissue to be fully healed.

Physical therapy begins a few days after the procedure to help start the healing process. Minimal movement is important because it helps keep inflammation to a minimum and restores proper blood flow to the area. It’s important to remember that the more you move and stress the shoulder, the longer it may take for it heal.

Does a replacement surgery restrict mobility or range of motion?

A shoulder replacement surgery rarely limits your mobility. In fact, many people who have the procedure and allow it to heal correctly report that they regain much of the mobility and range of motion that they lost due to scar tissue and damage within the rotator cuff.

With physical therapy and proper exercise performed on a regular basis, you will gradually regain your ability to move your shoulder in each different direction. It may take time for the tissues to become accustomed to the movement, but once they are stronger and more resilient, your range of motion and flexibility will improve by leaps and bounds.

If you have questions about shoulder replacement surgery, contact Dr. Andrew Razzano to schedule an appointment at the Dayton office.