In shoulder replacement surgery, the damaged parts of the shoulder are removed and replaced with artificial components.
Types of shoulder replacement:
1.Total shoulder replacement:
In this the surgeon will replace the arthritic shoulder with a metal ball and socket.
2.Reverse shoulder replacement:
In this the surgeon will replace the arthritic shoulder with a ball and socket which are placed in a reverse fashion. It is indicated in chronic rotator cuff injuries (old muscle tears).
Anaesthesia:
Shoulder replacement is done under general anaesthesia or nerve block.
Recovery:
After surgery the operated arm is immobilized in a shoulder immobiliser, for a period of four weeks and gradually mobilised in the presence of physiotherapist.