Shoulder Replacement Surgery

An arthritic or injured shoulder greatly affects daily living by causing pain and limiting motion. When shoulder replacement surgery is necessary, the surgeon may perform either a total shoulder replacement or a hemi (partial) shoulder replacement. There are two main bones involved in shoulder motion: the humeral head (rounded portion at the top of the upper arm bone) and the glenoid (cuplike bone in front of the shoulder blade).

In a hemi (partial) shoulder joint replacement, the humeral head is replaced with a metal implant with the same rounded shape. The glenoid, in this case, is healthy and does not need to be replaced. If the glenoid is not healthy, then a total shoulder replacement is typically performed. In a total shoulder replacement, the surface of the glenoid is removed and a similarly shaped polyethylene component is inserted in its place. Another option may be a resurfacing component. This implant is designed to "cap" only the top of the humerus.

Knees, hips and shoulders are some of the most commonly replaced joints. Most artificial joints last for 15 years or longer. Potential complications of joint replacement surgery include blood clots, infections or premature loosening of the new joint. It also requires a hospital stay, typically several days, followed by weeks of physical therapy.

To find an orthopedic specialist near you, call 866-690-9355 (WELL).

Click here to read our Patient’s Guide to Joint Replacement Surgery.