When arthritis affects the shoulder joint, the deterioration of cartilage between the articulating bones results in painful inflammation as the bones rub against each other.
Severe arthritis can impede arm movement, hinder daily activities, and disrupt sleep patterns. In such cases, doctors may suggest total shoulder arthroplasty, also known as total shoulder replacement.
The shoulder functions as a ball-and-socket joint, with the upper arm bone forming the ball and the shoulder blade creating the socket. During total joint replacement, both the ball and socket components are substituted with implants to establish a new joint. Traditional shoulder arthroplasty involves using an implant with a stem, which inserts into the upper arm bone canal.
However, this method often necessitates substantial bone removal, increasing the risk of fracture and complicating future replacement procedures.
Stemless Total Shoulder Arthroplasty presents a canal-sparing alternative, designed to secure the implant with minimal bone loss.
Indications
Indications for Stemless Total Shoulder Arthroplasty include arthritis resulting from overuse, aging, or trauma, causing debilitating shoulder pain unrelieved by non-surgical treatments.
Before the procedure, your doctor assesses bone health and rotator cuff stability to ensure suitability for the implant.
Procedure
During surgery, you’ll be positioned in a beach chair stance. An incision is made between shoulder and chest muscles to access the joint, dislocate it, and bring forward the humeral head.
The size of the humeral head implant is determined using preoperative imaging and computer software. A positioning disc aids in preparing the humerus surface and orienting the implants. The glenoid surface is then readied, and the final implant is secured with cement.
Postoperative Care
Postoperatively, the sling is removed the following day, and shoulder mobilization begins. Some movements are restricted initially, but routine arm use is encouraged. Shoulder strengthening exercises commence around eight weeks post-surgery, gradually progressing to more vigorous activities.
Advantages
Advantages of Stemless Total Shoulder Arthroplasty include easier implant placement, reduced operation time, decreased blood loss, postoperative pain reduction, faster recovery, and greater bone preservation for potential future procedures.
Summary
In summary, Stemless Total Shoulder Arthroplasty offers a bone-conserving, expedited recovery alternative to traditional shoulder replacement surgery. As with any medical intervention, risks and complications exist, which your doctor will discuss to determine the most suitable approach for you.