Shoulder Replacement

Shoulder Replacement

When chronic shoulder pain keeps you from everyday activities—like reaching overhead, lifting objects, or even dressing, shoulder replacement surgery may be the solution. At Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics, our expert orthopedic surgeons specialize in advanced shoulder replacement procedures designed to relieve pain, restore function, and improve quality of life.

With modern surgical techniques and state-of-the-art implants, 95% of patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility within the first year.

What is Shoulder Replacement?

Shoulder replacement, also called shoulder arthroplasty, replaces damaged parts of the shoulder joint with artificial components made of metal and durable plastic. The procedure restores smooth joint motion and eliminates painful bone-on-bone contact caused by arthritis, fractures, or rotator cuff damage.

The shoulder is a complex ball-and-socket joint, where the humeral head (upper arm bone) fits into the glenoid cavity of the shoulder blade. When cartilage wears down or soft tissues are damaged, motion becomes painful and limited. Shoulder replacement surgery recreates the joint surfaces to allow natural, pain-free movement.

Modern implants are designed to last decades, with long-term success rates exceeding 90% at 10 years. Surgical techniques can be customized to meet each patient’s anatomy, bone quality, and activity level.

Conditions Treated with Shoulder Replacement

Our surgeons commonly perform shoulder replacement for patients with:

• Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of cartilage causing bone-on-bone contact, stiffness, and chronic pain.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Inflammatory joint disease that damages cartilage and soft tissues.
• Posttraumatic arthritis & fractures: Arthritis or bone death following shoulder injury, fracture, or dislocation.
• Rotator cuff tear arthropathy: Severe rotator cuff damage leading to joint destruction; often treated with reverse shoulder replacement.
• Avascular necrosis: Loss of blood supply to the humeral head causing bone collapse and pain.

Types of Shoulder Replacement

Total Shoulder Replacement (Anatomic)

For patients with intact rotator cuffs and good bone quality. The damaged humeral head is replaced with a metal ball, and the glenoid socket is resurfaced with a plastic component. This approach restores natural biomechanics and function.

Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement

Ideal for patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears. The ball and socket are reversed to allow the deltoid muscle to power shoulder movement. This technique restores overhead function and strength even when the rotator cuff is deficient.

Hemiarthroplasty (Partial Replacement)

Replaces only the humeral head, preserving the natural socket. Used when the humeral head is damaged but the glenoid remains healthy.

Resurfacing Hemiarthroplasty

A bone-preserving option that caps the humeral head instead of using a stemmed implant. Often recommended for younger patients with early arthritis.

The Surgical Procedure

Shoulder replacement surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure or with a short hospital stay:

• Anesthesia: General anesthesia with a regional nerve block for pain control
• Surgical approach: Usually a 4–6 inch deltopectoral incision
• Implant placement: Damaged bone surfaces are replaced with metal and plastic components
• Advanced technology: GPS-navigated surgery can enhance precision and improve long-term outcomes

Post-surgery, the arm is supported in a sling, and early motion exercises are initiated under the guidance of a physical therapist.

Recovery & Rehabilitation

• Immediate Post-Surgery (Days 1–3): Pain control, gentle hand/wrist movement, and sling immobilization.
• Early Recovery (Weeks 1-6): Pendulum and passive range-of-motion exercises with careful wound care.
• Extended Recovery (Months 2-6): Progressive strengthening, active range-of-motion exercises, and gradual return to daily activities and recreational sports.
• Most patients achieve pain-free function within 3-6 months, with continued improvement up to one year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics

• Expert orthopedic surgeons with specialized shoulder replacement experience
• Advanced surgical techniques and state-of-the-art implants
• Personalized rehabilitation programs for every patient
• Comprehensive care for complex shoulder conditions
• Commitment to restoring pain-free function and quality of life

Schedule Your Shoulder Replacement Consultation Today

If chronic shoulder pain is interfering with your life, shoulder replacement surgery at Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics may be the solution. Our team provides comprehensive evaluation, personalized surgical care, and guided rehabilitation to restore function and improve quality of life.