Shoulder ArthritisIn shoulder arthritis, the smooth
cartilage that normally covers the surfaces of the ball (humeral head) and
socket (glenoid) is lost. The result is that there is bone on bone rubbing
between these two joint surfaces. This bone-on-bone contact produces pain,
stiffness, difficulty sleeping and the inability to do activities of daily
living, work and sports.
Shoulder arthritis may result from wear and tear,
osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, rotator cuff tears, chondrolysis or may follow surgery for recurrent dislocations.
Treatment of shoulder arthritis may
include exercises , a ream
and run procedure, a total shoulder or a reverse (Delta) total shoulder joint replacement
arthroplasty.
After performing a clinical exam and x-rays, a shoulder surgeon experienced in joint
replacement can find out if arthritis is the cause of the problem and if
surgery would be helpful. Patients are most likely to benefit from this surgery
if they are well motivated and in good health.
The goal of shoulder replacement
arthroplasty is to restore the best possible function to the joint by removing
scar tissue, balancing muscles, and replacing the destroyed joint surfaces with
artificial ones.
Shoulder
joint replacement arthroplasty is a highly technical procedure and is best
performed by a surgical team who performs this surgery often. Such a team can
maximize the benefit and minimize the risks. The two-hour procedure is
performed under general (or nerve block) anesthesia.
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