If you have suffered a severe shoulder fracture, have repeated dislocations, or struggle with advanced osteoarthritis in your shoulder joint, you may be a candidate for reverse shoulder replacement. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty is known for its remarkable pain relief and restoration of shoulder function.
Let’s talk about five truths regarding successful reverse shoulder replacement and where you can go for this surgery in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL.
Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty Changes Basic Joint Anatomy
Orthopedic surgeons repair damaged shoulder joints with artificial components made of metal and plastic. In traditional shoulder replacements, the top of the humerus, or upper arm bone, receives a new metal ball that fits precisely into a new plastic socket, or glenoid.
With reverse shoulder arthroplasty, the replacement parts are installed in the opposite configuration: the humerus receives the new socket, and the glenoid receives the ball. Reversing the natural shoulder anatomy allows for faster and more complete recovery in shoulder joints–specifically the rotator cuffs–severely damaged by arthritis or traumatic injury from a car accident or fall. The deltoid muscle in the upper arm successfully accomplishes a full range of motion movements, such as reaching overhead.
85 to 90 Percent of Patients Experience Excellent Pain Relief
While reverse shoulder arthroplasty patients need IV or nerve block pain relief during their short hospital stays, most do well with oral pain meds at home or rehab. Studies show that 85 to 90% of patients report excellent long-term pain relief in their operated shoulders.
Recovery Takes four to Six Weeks
Recovery from reverse shoulder replacement surgery takes an average of four to six weeks for the otherwise healthy patient. Recovery involves wearing a sling, taking over-the-counter pain meds, and a detailed physical therapy program.
In fact, patients begin shoulder movement exercises before they even return home from the hospital. Cold therapy is a must-have, as well as some weeks of focused and individualized physical therapy as an outpatient.
Only Three Percent of Patients Need Revision Surgery After 10 Years
Recovery from reverse shoulder arthroscopy is complete and highly successful for most patients. Only a small percentage require repair of their operated joints after 10 years. Complications, such as infection or nerve damage, are very rare.
Dr. Robert Stchur Is One of The Top Reverse Shoulder Replacement Experts in The United States
Quite literally, our orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Robert Stchur, performs more than 1000 shoulder surgeries each year. Known for his skill and compassion, Dr. Stchur is highly sought-after for treating a wide range of shoulder joint problems. He works hard to optimize the full recovery of his patients.
Reverse Shoulder Replacement Surgery and Recovery in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL
At Advanced Orthopedic Center, our highly trained and skilled orthopedic surgeons have been providing comprehensive orthopedic care and interventional pain management for more than 40 years, including shoulder joint replacement surgeries, using advanced technology like MAKOplasty.
To set up an appointment with one of our orthopedic surgeons, call us today at (941) 629-6262 or request an appointment using our secure online form.
