Panama Medical Vacations

Orthopedic and Arthroscopic

Shoulder replacement Surgery in Panama

It is common to know someone who has undergone hip or knee replacement but shoulder replacement surgery is less common. But it is just as successful in relieving joint pain. Surgeons began doing shoulder replacement surgery in the 1950s; it was used as a treatment for severe shoulder fractures. Since then, the surgery has been used for many other conditions including:

Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis
Post-traumatic arthritis
Rotator cuff tears
Avascular necrosis
Failed previous shoulder replacement surgery
Severe fractures

The Procedure

When undergoing a shoulder joint replacement surgery the patient receives either regional or general anesthesia. The surgeon makes a 3–4 cut to expose the shoulder. The surgeon inspects the muscles to see if any are damaged. He or she then dislocates the shoulder and exposes the head of the humerus. Only portion of this is removed. The center cavity of the humerus is then cleaned and enlarged to create an opening for the implant stem.

The surgeon then implants the artificial glenoid component. The surgeon prepares the surface and protrusions on the polyethylene glenoid implant are then fitted into holes drilled in the bone surface. Once a precise fit is achieved, the implant is cemented into position. The humerus, with its new implanted artificial head, is replaced in the glenoid socket. The surgeon reattaches the supporting tendons and closes the incision.

After your surgery

Following surgery, the repaired arm is placed in a sling, and a support pillow is placed under the elbow for protection. A drainage tube is used to remove excess fluid and is usually removed on the day after surgery.

A careful and well-planned rehabilitation program is very important for the successful outcome of a shoulder joint replacement. It should start no later than the first postoperative day. A physical therapist usually starts the patient with gentle, passive-assisted range of motion exercises. Before the patient leaves the hospital, usually two or three days after surgery, the therapist provides instruction on the use of a pulley device to help bend and extend the operated arm.

Risks

Shoulder replacement surgery has a success rate of over 90 percent. When problems do occur, most are treatable. Possible risks include infection, blood clots, loosening of the joint, dislocation of the prosthesis, wear and nerve or blood vessel injury.