Anterior glenoid reconstruction for unstable dislocating shoulders. Surgery to restore lost anterior glenoid bone and deep the socket with a bone graft can restore shoulder anatomy and lessen pain and improve function.
Edited By: Frederick A. Matsen III, M.D., Winston J. Warme, MD
Last updated Monday, October 09, 2006
RehabilitationPhysical therapy Early motion after shoulder reconstruction is critical for achieving
optimal shoulder function. One of the major goals of shoulder
reconstruction surgery is to maintain the range of motion while
achieving stability.
After surgery, scar tissue tends to limit movement unless motion is
started immediately. Later on, once the shoulder is comfortable and
flexible, strengthening exercises and additional activities are started.
Rehabilitation options It is often most effective for the patient to carry out their own
exercises so that they are done frequently, effectively and
comfortably. Usually, a physical therapist or the surgeon instructs the
patient in the exercise program and advances it at a rate that is
comfortable for the patient. For the first six weeks after surgery,
emphasis is placed on optimizing the flexibility and range of motion of
the shoulder through gentle stretching exercises. After six weeks,
these stretching exercises are continued and strengthening exercises
may be added.Can rehabilitation be done at home? In general the exercises are best performed by the patient at home.
Occasional visits to the surgeon or therapist may be useful to check
the progress and to review the program.Usual response Patients are almost always satisfied with the increases in range of
motion, comfort and function that they achieve with the exercise
program. If the exercises are uncomfortable, difficult, or painful, the
patient should contact the surgeon promptly.Risks The primary risk is that the patient may exceed the limitations suggested by the surgeon after the reconstruction.Duration of rehabilitation Once the range of motion and strength goals are achieved, the
exercise program can be cut back to a minimal level. However, gentle
stretching is recommended on an ongoing basis.
Returning to ordinary daily activities In general, patients are able to perform gentle activities of daily
living using the operated arm from two to six weeks after surgery.
Walking is strongly encouraged. Driving should wait until the patient
can perform the necessary functions comfortably and confidently.
Recovery of driving ability may take six weeks if the surgery has been
performed on the right shoulder, because of the increased demands on
the right shoulder for shifting gears.
With the consent of their surgeon, patients can often return to
activities such as swimming and golf at six months after their surgery. Long-term patient limitations Until the surgeon determines that the shoulder is healed and strong,
patients should avoid sudden, heavy or forceful activities with the
shoulder.The surgeon and therapist should provide the information on the usual
cost of the rehabilitation program. The program is quite
cost-effective, because it is based heavily on home exercises.Costs The surgeon and therapist should provide the information on the usual
cost of the rehabilitation program. The program is quite
cost-effective, because it is based heavily on home exercises.Surgery for failed surgery for anterior dislocation at the University of Washington If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-598-BONE (2663) to make an appointment.
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