The surgery of Reverse Shoulder Replacement (RSR) is advised when the patient’s rotator cuff is torn and there is no alternative method left to treat the condition. In this surgical procedure, the surgeon will replace your shoulder ball with an artificial one made of metal or plastic.
What is a Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement?
This is an arthroplasty procedure for your shoulder joints. Suppose you’re suffering from long-term shoulder pain and having difficulty with movements; in such a case, you should consult with a doctor and see if it is caused by a damaged rotator cuff. Because in such scenarios, you will be required to seek surgical treatment so that your mobility is normal and you won’t face any pain in daily activities.
How to Prepare For a Reverse Shoulder Replacement Surgery in Gurgaon?
When you’re considering Gurgaon hospitals for your shoulder replacement surgery, there are a few things you need to prepare for. Let’s see the checklist for the shoulder’s surgical procedure:
- Consultation and evaluation
Artemis Hospital's orthopaedic surgeon will examine you, review your medical history, and perform imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to determine the extent of joint damage.
Our medical team will ensure any other conditions, such as anaemia or diabetes, are properly managed before surgery.
Artemis Hospital's anaesthesiologist will meet with you to discuss the anaesthesia plan, which is usually a general anaesthetic in combination with a nerve block for postoperative pain control.
You may be advised to arrange for assistance at home and modify your living space to accommodate your recovery.
What Happens During the Surgical Procedure of Reverse Shoulder Replacement?
Our orthopaedic surgeons will carry out the reverse shoulder replacement by following a step-by-step process. Here, take a look at the steps we take to make sure your shoulder moves normally post-surgery.
- Incision: An incision, about 6 to 15 centimetres long, is made either at the front or top of the shoulder to access the joint. The surgeon carefully moves muscles and nerves, including the deltoid and pectoral muscles, to expose the joint.
- Removal of the humeral head: The damaged, rounded top of the upper arm bone (humeral head) is dislocated and then removed with a surgical saw.
- Humerus preparation: The hollow shaft of the upper arm bone is reamed to prepare it for the stem of the new socket implant. Some systems use bone cement to secure the stem, while others use a "press-fit" cementless design.
- Glenoid preparation: The natural shoulder socket (glenoid) on the shoulder blade (scapula) is reshaped to accept the new prosthetic ball. A metal baseplate is secured to the scapula using screws.
- Implant placement: The prosthetic metal ball, or glenosphere, is attached to the baseplate on the shoulder blade. The prosthetic socket, or humeral cup, is then attached to the stem inserted into the upper arm bone.
- Trial reduction: The surgeon inserts trial components to test the new joint's stability, range of motion, and proper tension before securing the final implants.
- Final implantation: Once the correct sizing and placement are confirmed, the permanent prosthetic components are put into place.
- Wound closure: After the joint is stabilised and a final check is performed, the surgeon closes the muscles and soft tissues with sutures or staples. A drain may be placed to remove excess fluid.
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What Happens After the Shoulder’s Surgical Procedure?
Post the surgical procedure, you will be sent to the recovery room, where the following steps are carried out:
- Immobilisation: Your arm will be placed in a sling for several weeks to protect the joint during the initial healing phase.
- Physical therapy: Gentle exercises will begin shortly after surgery, often while you are still in the hospital. A formal physical therapy programme will continue for several months to regain strength and mobility.
- Gradual recovery: Full recovery can take 6 to 12 months, with pain relief and initial functional improvement noticeable within weeks. Weight-bearing restrictions and limitations on certain movements will be in place for several months.
When Should I Go to the Orthopaedic Specialist For a Reverse Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
You should go to a reverse shoulder arthroplasty doctor for a reverse shoulder replacement surgery evaluation when you have severe, chronic shoulder pain and significant difficulty lifting your arm, especially after non-surgical treatments like physical therapy and injections have failed.
This procedure is typically recommended for complex conditions such as massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears with arthritis (cuff tear arthropathy), a failed previous shoulder replacement, or complex shoulder fractures where the joint's function is compromised and cannot be addressed with a traditional replacement.
A consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon is the best way to determine if you are a suitable candidate and if the potential benefits, including pain relief and restored arm function, outweigh the risks.
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Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty vs. Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
The two shoulder surgeries, reverse shoulder arthroplasty and total shoulder arthroplasty differ from each other. Take a look at the difference between these two shoulder surgeries below:
Feature | Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty (RSA) | Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (TSA) |
Joint Design | The ball is placed on the shoulder blade (glenoid), and a socket is placed on the upper arm bone (humerus). | The ball is placed on the upper arm bone (humerus), and a socket is placed on the shoulder blade (glenoid), mimicking natural anatomy. |
Rotator Cuff Dependence | Does not rely on a functioning rotator cuff. Instead, it relies on the deltoid muscle for movement. | Requires a healthy, intact rotator cuff for optimal function and stability. |
Primary Indications | - Massive or irreparable rotator cuff tears
- Rotator cuff tear arthropathy (arthritis with torn cuff)
- Severe glenoid deformity or bone loss
- Failed previous shoulder replacement
- Certain complex shoulder fractures | - Severe osteoarthritis of the shoulder joint with an intact rotator cuff
- Other forms of arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis) with a healthy rotator cuff
- Avascular necrosis with a healthy rotator cuff |
Motion | - Improves ability to lift the arm (forward elevation).
- Internal and external rotation may be limited compared to TSA. | - Typically results in greater overall range of motion, especially external rotation. |
Strength | Relies on the deltoid muscle for strength, may result in slightly less overall strength compared to a healthy rotator cuff. | Relies on a healthy rotator cuff, which generally results in greater strength and ability to perform higher-demand activities. |
Potential Complications | - Dislocation of the artificial joint
- Scapular notching (grooving of the shoulder blade bone)
- Instability
- Periprosthetic fracture
- Nerve damage (tingling, numbness, weakness) | - Glenoid component loosening or failure
- Rotator cuff tearing
- Instability
- Infection
- Periprosthetic fracture
- Nerve damage |
Reoperation Rates | Studies suggest potentially lower reoperation rates in the mid- to long-term compared to TSA. | Studies show potentially higher reoperation rates compared to RSA, possibly due to glenoid loosening over time. |
Arm Length | May lengthen the arm by 2–3 cm to optimize implant function and stability. | Does not typically lengthen the arm, aiming to recreate the natural joint geometry. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a reverse total shoulder replacement?
It’s a surgical procedure where the shoulder’s ball-and-socket structure is reversed to improve stability and function, especially when rotator cuff muscles are damaged.
How long does it take to fully recover from a reverse shoulder replacement?
Recovery typically takes 3–6 months, with physical therapy playing a key role in regaining strength and mobility.
How painful is a total reverse shoulder replacement?
Post-surgery pain is manageable with medication and usually subsides within a few weeks as healing progresses.
Who may need a reverse total shoulder replacement?
Patients with severe arthritis, irreparable rotator cuff tears, or failed previous shoulder surgeries may benefit from this procedure.
Why should a person get a reverse prosthesis instead of a standard shoulder replacement?
It’s preferred when the rotator cuff is non-functional, as the reverse design allows the deltoid muscle to compensate for movement.
What is the difference between a reverse shoulder replacement and a total shoulder replacement?
In reverse replacement, the ball is placed on the shoulder blade and the socket on the arm bone, opposite to the standard design. This is what makes it different from a total shoulder replacement surgery.
How serious is a total reverse shoulder replacement, and where can I get it near me in Gurgaon?
It’s a major but safe procedure with high success rates; Artemis Hospital Gurgaon is a top choice for expert care. We provide advanced technologies for quick and accurate diagnosis and have a team of the best orthopaedists in Gurgaon.
What shoulder conditions warrant reverse total shoulder replacement?
Conditions include rotator cuff arthropathy, complex fractures, and failed previous shoulder surgeries. You can consult with Artemis Hospital's experienced orthopaedists for a detailed plan.
What are the benefits of reverse shoulder arthroplasty?
It restores shoulder function, reduces pain, and improves quality of life. The surgical procedure is the last step to improve your shoulder movements when medication and other treatments fail.
Who should not have a reverse total shoulder replacement?
Patients with active infections, poor bone quality, or severe nerve damage may not be suitable candidates. Consult with Artemis specialists to see which treatment is better for you in such scenarios.
What is the success rate of reverse shoulder arthroplasty at Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospital reports a success rate between 86% and 95% for reverse shoulder replacement. So if you're considering seeking the best surgical treatment for your reverse shoulder replacement, do visit Artemis Hospitals in Gurgaon.
What results are possible after a reverse total shoulder replacement?
Most patients experience pain relief and improved shoulder mobility and strength after their recovery. So if you're facing any shoulder pain or discomfort, get it checked and find out how to treat it.
Are there any restrictions after reverse shoulder arthroplasty?
Yes, heavy lifting and overhead activities may be limited for several months post-surgery. Putting pressure on your artificial shoulder socket will weaken its strength, and it will increase the recovery time.
How long does it take to fully recover from reverse shoulder replacement?
Recovery spans 3–6 months, depending on age, health, and adherence to physiotherapy. But in rare cases, this timeline may be exceeded; this is why regular follow-ups with the doctor are necessary, so they can identify what the blockage in your recovery is.
What are the limitations after reverse shoulder replacement?
Some patients may have a reduced range of motion or strength compared to a healthy shoulder. This is because they're still in their recovery period, and the artificial ball and socket takes time adapting to your shoulder movements.
Can reverse shoulder arthroplasty be performed on both shoulders?
Yes, but typically one shoulder is treated at a time to aid recovery and maintain function. A surgeon won't operate on both shoulders unless and until it is a life-threatening situation.
How much does reverse shoulder replacement surgery cost near me in Gurgaon?
The cost of this surgery will depend on which hospital you seek this treatment from. If you're choosing the best hospitals in Gurgaon, take a detailed look at the breakdown of the bill. It includes hospital stay, diagnosis test fee, surgeon fee, etc.
What factors affect the cost of reverse shoulder replacement surgery near me in Gurgaon?
Hospital choice, surgeon’s experience, implant quality, and length of stay influence the cost. Do check with the hospital for bill-related queries, because the exact amount may vary depending on the patient's condition.
Which hospitals near me in Gurgaon provide reverse shoulder replacement surgery?
Top hospitals in Gurgaon provide reverse shoulder surgery; among those, Artemis Hospitals is at the top. We at Artemis provide the best medical care to our patients with advanced technology and experienced doctors.
How can I schedule a consultation for reverse shoulder replacement surgery near me in Gurgaon?
You can book an appointment online or via WhatsApp at Artemis Hospital or visit our website for appointments. To book an appointment via call, connect with us on +91-9800400498.
