Surface replacement for shoulder arthritis: Surgery with a CAP, a special type of conservative resurfacing joint replacement that resurfaces the ball of the ball and socket joint, can lessen pain and improve function.

Edited By: Frederick A. Matsen III, M.D., Winston J. Warme, MD
Last updated Wednesday, January 09, 2008

Conclusion

Summary of shoulder replacement surgery with a cap resurfacing prosthesis for shoulder arthritis

Shoulder arthritis can be a devastating condition that seriously compromises the comfort and function of the shoulder.  This condition is characterized by the loss of the normal surface of the shoulder joint. These tissues cannot be restored to their normal condition and the lost comfort and function of the shoulder cannot be totally regained.

However, in the hands of an experienced surgeon  and in a well-motivated individual, shoulder  replacement surgery along with careful post-surgical  rehabilitation can help restore substantial  comfort and function to shoulders damaged by arthritis.

Pre-planning and persistent rehabilitation efforts will help assure the best possible result for the individual with rotator cuff tear arthropathy.

Thanks to the DePuy Company, the distributor  of the  resurfacaing (CAP) prosthesis,  for their permission to use the illustrations.

Surgery for Shoulder Arthritis at the University of Washington

Disclaimer

This resource has been provided by the University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine as general information only. This information may not apply to a specific patient. Additional information may be found at http://www.orthop.washington.edu or by contacting the UW Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine.

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