During shoulder reconstruction surgery, the damaged parts of your should are removed before artificial parts are inserted to replace them. Also often referred to as shoulder replacement surgery, its purpose is to both improve the mobility of your shoulder and to relieve any pain that you are experiencing.
Are You a Good Candidate for Shoulder Reconstruction Surgery?
Before being considered as a candidate for shoulder reconstruction surgery, it is likely that you have exhausted more conservative treatment options or that you have found little relief from them. If any of the following apply to you, this type of surgery could provide you with good results:
- you have pain while sleeping or during periods of rest
- conservative treatments like injections, physical therapy, and medication did not provide you with relief
- loss of motion and/or weakness in your shoulder
- severe shoulder pain that interferes with your everyday life
There are some conditions that could make shoulder reconstruction surgery less successful than you hoped. If you are obese, have diabetes or Parkinson’s disease, or are depressed, this surgery might not be right for you.
Consulting with your doctor can provide some guidance regarding the possibility of shoulder reconstruction surgery being the right choice for your particular situation.
What Conditions Might Require Shoulder Reconstruction Surgery?
Each year in the United States, about 53,000 people undergo shoulder reconstruction surgery. This procedure might be required if you have a fractured shoulder joint or if you have severe arthritis.
In addition, the following conditions might be better addressed when shoulder reconstruction surgery is performed:
- avascular necrosis is a condition that occurs when the bone experiences blood loss. It can result in both pain and damage to the shoulder joint
- osteoarthritis is common in older adults and happens when the cartilage that cushions the bones wears away.
- a shoulder that is badly broken might require reconstructive surgery in order to repair the joint
- rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can cause both inflammation and pain when your body’s immune system attacks the joints in error
Preparing for Shoulder Reconstruction Surgery
Prior to the surgery, you’ll probably need to undergo a complete physical exam to ensure that you are healthy enough to have the procedure. About two weeks before your surgery date, your doctor will tell you to stop taking certain medications such as blood thinners, arthritis therapies, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These drugs can cause you to bleed too much.
You should plan to stay in the hospital for two to three days afterward. Arrange for someone else to drive you home because driving won’t be recommended until you have normal strength and motion in your shoulder again. It is normal for you to require some help with everyday activities for about six weeks post surgery.
For more information about shoulder reconstruction surgery and to determine if you are a good candidate, consult your physician.