Total shoulder joint replacement for shoulder arthritis: Surgery with a dependable, time-tested conservative prosthesis and accelerated rehabilitation can lessen pain and improve function in shoulders with arthritis.

Figure 1 - This is a humeral head in situ that has been damaged by arthritis.

Figure 2 - Humeral implant

Summary

Overview

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Treatment of shoulder arthritis may include exercises , a ream and run procedure, or a total shoulder.

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.

Total 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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Streaming video
Dr. Matsen and Sarah Jackins, physical therapist with the UW Bone and Joint Surgery Center, discuss shoulder surgery with an emphasis on patient involvement in the UWTV video, "Total Shoulder Replacement: Partnership with the Patient".

10 surgery questions for your surgeon before having surgery

Surgery for shoulder arthritis at the University of Washington, Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Seattle, Washington

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