Skip to content 
What is Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
Shoulder replacement surgery is a surgical procedure performed to treat pain and limitation of movement caused by shoulder joint problems. At MSM Clinic, it is performed safely and effectively by our expert orthopedic surgeons using modern techniques. We strive to achieve the best results with personalized treatment plans based on the specific needs of our patients. Different prosthesis types and techniques can be used in shoulder replacement surgery, depending on the specific needs and condition of the patient. The post-operative rehabilitation process is important and patients are recommended to participate in physiotherapy programs prepared by my expert physiotherapists to support the full recovery and strengthening process.
What are the Reasons for Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
Shoulder prosthesis surgery is an effective method used to repair damage to the shoulder joint, provide comfortable and safe joint movement, and relieve pain in cases where other treatment options are inadequate. The most common reasons for shoulder replacement surgery are:
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis may develop as a result of wear and degeneration of the cartilages in the shoulder joint. In this case, pain, stiffness and limitation of movement may occur in the shoulder joint. Prosthesis surgery may be preferred to improve the patient’s quality of life and reduce pain.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Inflammatory joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis can cause damage to the shoulder joint. In this case, shoulder replacement surgery may be necessary to correct the damage to the joint and help the patient regain mobility.
- Traumatic Injuries: Serious damage to the shoulder joint may occur as a result of shoulder fractures or other traumatic injuries. In these cases, shoulder replacement surgery may be an option to regenerate damaged tissues and restore stability.
- Aseptic Necrosis: Aseptic necrosis, which is the death of bone tissue as a result of decreased blood flow in the shoulder joint, can cause shoulder pain and limitation of movement. In advanced cases, shoulder replacement surgery may be required.
- Ruptured Rotator Cuff Tear: Rupture of the muscles called the rotator cuff in the shoulder can cause pain, weakness and limitation of movement in the shoulder joint. It is applied when muscle repair is not possible in patients who have torn a long time ago and have not received treatment. In severe cases, shoulder replacement surgery may be required to repair or replace the rotator cuff.
What are the Types of Shoulder Prosthesis?
- Total Shoulder Prosthesis: Also referred to as complete shoulder prosthesis, this prosthesis includes both the humeral head (upper arm bone) and the glenoid (shoulder bone socket). It is used to both restore mobility and reduce pain.
- Partial Shoulder Prosthesis: This prosthesis, which is also used as a semi-shoulder prosthesis, is a type of prosthesis in which only the humeral head or glenoid is replaced. It is used to fix damage in just one section.
- Reverse Total Shoulder Prosthesis: This type of prosthesis, also called reverse shoulder, places the humeral head in place of the glenoid and places the glenoid on the humeral head. It is generally preferred in cases of serious damage or tears in the rotator cuff muscles.
- Shoulder Prosthesis Revision: It is a procedure performed to replace or revise the prosthesis in cases where a previously placed shoulder prosthesis fails or is damaged.
Many factors are taken into consideration when choosing a shoulder prosthesis, such as the patient’s age, general health condition, activity level and degree of damage to the shoulder joint. As MSM Clinic, we hold a detailed interview with our patients to create a specific treatment plan for each patient.
Is Shoulder Replacement Surgery Risky?
As MSM Clinic, we recognize that shoulder replacement surgery is a treatment option that can provide significant benefits to many patients. As with every surgical procedure, there are some risks in shoulder replacement surgery. However, these risks are generally low.
- Infection: There is a risk of infection in every surgical procedure. The risk of infection in shoulder replacement surgery is approximately 1%.
- Blood clot: The risk of blood clot increases, especially in patients who remain immobile for long periods of time.
- Nerve damage: The risk of nerve damage is rare, but nerves can be damaged during the surgical procedure.
- Prosthesis loosening: Prosthesis loosening means the separation of the prosthesis from the bone over time. This can cause pain and limited movement.
- Instability in the shoulder joint: Instability in the shoulder joint means that the joint is loose. This can cause shoulder dislocation.
At MSM Clinic, we conduct a detailed interview with each patient before shoulder replacement surgery. During this meeting, the patient’s medical history and general health condition are evaluated and detailed information is given about the risks and benefits of the surgery.
Post-operatively, we take all necessary precautions to minimize our patients’ risk of infection and blood clots. We also implement a special physiotherapy program to help our patients regain the range of motion and strength of their joints.
Shoulder replacement surgery is a very safe and effective treatment method with correct patient selection and surgical technique. As MSM Clinic, we always use the latest technology and surgical techniques to offer the most appropriate treatment option to our patients experiencing shoulder pain and movement limitation.
What Should Be Considered After Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
As MSM Clinic, we provide all the necessary support for our patients to recover in the fastest and most comfortable way after shoulder replacement surgery.
First Days After Surgery:
- Pain Management: It is important to keep your pain under control by using the painkillers prescribed by our clinician.
- Restriction of Movement: You may be restricted in moving your arm for the first few days after surgery. It is important that you do the movements and exercises recommended by our doctor.
- Wound Care: It is important to keep your wound clean and dry and dress it as recommended by our doctor.
- Drainage Tube: If a drain is installed after surgery, it is important to follow our doctor’s instructions on how to drain and care for the drain.
- Sleeping Position: It is recommended to sleep on your back or on your non-surgical side.
After the First Week:
- Arm Sling: It is important to use an arm sling for the period recommended by our doctor.
- Movement Exercises: It is important to do exercises to regain the range of motion and strength of your shoulder joint under the supervision of our physiotherapist.
- Daily Activities: It is important to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous movements.
- Showering: It is important to take a shower as recommended by our doctor until your wound heals.
- Check-ups: It is important that you go for check-ups on the dates determined by our doctor.
The recovery process after shoulder replacement surgery may vary depending on the patient’s general health condition and the scope of the surgery. As MSM Clinic, we will always be with our patients during their recovery process and provide all the necessary support.
