Skip to main content

Shoulder Replacement Surgery


 

Total shoulder replacement

Shoulder arthritis is the gradual disappearance of smooth cartilage surfaces around the shoulder, which allow the ball and socket to glide smoothly against each another. This loss of smooth cartilage results in a “bone on bone” feeling that can be extremely painful.

When the shoulder joint is damaged beyond repair by arthritis or a traumatic injury, the only remaining option may be a total shoulder replacement. During a total shoulder replacement, also known as total shoulder replacement arthroplasty, Dr. Hannon replaces the entire shoulder joint with an artificial joint. This procedure replaces the arthritic ball and restores comfort and function to the shoulders. The replacement artificial ball is made of smooth metal that is fixed to the arm bone (humerus) with a protruding stem.

These artificial components, called prostheses, can replace the head of the humerus (the ball), or both humerus and glenoid (the socket). The total shoulder replacement procedure takes about three hours and requires general anesthesia and a 24- to 48–hour hospital stay, at most. Total recovery might take four to six months. During recovery we may prescribe medication to manage pain and physical therapy to promote faster healing and improved function. Total shoulder replacement has been tremendously successful in treating the severe pain and stiffness that often accompany arthritis. Many patients who have total shoulder replacement can return to the sports and recreational activities they love.

Reverse total shoulder replacement

Dr. Hannon performs a newer type of shoulder replacement called a reverse total shoulder replacement to treat arthritis. The shoulder ball naturally rests against the socket, rather than deeply contained within the socket. It relies on the tendons surrounding the ball socket to hold it in place and move it. Arthritis may have severely damaged these tendons to the point where they are non-functioning.

The reverse total shoulder replacement puts the ball on your own socket, and the plastic socket on the humerus. This design is more stable and does not need tendons to hold it in place. Instead of being moved by the rotator cuff, it is moved by the deltoid muscles, often a better option when your damaged shoulder needs new surfaces but does not have healthy enough soft tissue for proper stabilization and movement. Dr. Hannon will be happy to explain the risks and benefits of total shoulder replacement and reverse total shoulder replacement.

Trust Michael Hannon, MD, for your shoulder replacement surgery. Call 310-362-3099 or use our convenient Request an Appointment form. Dr. Hannon welcomes patients from Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Hollywood, Culver City, West Hollywood, Santa Monica, Glendale and nearby communities.