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HomeSummaryReview of the conditionConsidering surgeryTypes of surgery recommendedWho should consider shoulder joint replacement surgery with a rotator cuff tear arthropathy (cta) prosthesis?What happens without surgery?Surgical optionsEffectiveness Urgency Risks Managing riskPreparing for surgeryAbout the procedureRecovering from surgeryRehabilitationConclusion

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Cuff tear arthropathy - CTA - prosthesis for shoulder arthritis: Surgery with a cementless CTA prosthesis can lessen pain and improve function in shoulders with the combination of arthritis and rotator cuff tears.

Edited By: Winston J. Warme, MD, Frederick A. Matsen III, M.D.
Last updated Monday, October 09, 2006

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Figure 15
Figure 15

Figure 16
Figure 16

Figure 17
Figure 17

Considering surgery

What kinds of surgery are recommended for rotator cuff tear arthropathy (arthritis with a massive rotator cuff tear)?

Three types of surgery can be helpful in the management of rotator cuff tear arthropathy (shoulder arthritis associated with massive rotator cuff defects). The surgical procedures can range from a simple smoothing of the roughened bone [Figure 15] to a resurfacing of the humeral head with a smooth prosthesis , such as a CTA head, fixed to the shaft of the arm bone (humerus) [Figure 16]. If the joint is unstable, a reversed prosthesis, such as the reverse Delta [Figure 17] may be needed.

Who should consider shoulder joint replacement surgery with a rotator cuff tear arthropathy (cta) prosthesis for rotator cuff tear arthropathy (arthritis with a massive rotator cuff tear) and in what cases?

Individuals with rotator cuff tear arthropathy should consider joint replacement surgery with a cuff tear arthropathy head prosthesis when:

  • the arthritis is a major problem for the individual,
  • the individual is sufficiently healthy to undergo the procedure,
  • the individual understands and accepts the risks and alternatives,
  • there is sufficient bone and tendon to permit the surgery, and
  • the surgeon is experienced in shoulder replacement surgery with a rotator cuff tear arthropathy (CTA) prosthesis.

Shoulder replacement surgery with a rotator cuff tear arthropathy head prosthesis is most effective when the individual follows a simple exercise program after surgery. Thus, the individual ??s motivation and dedication are important elements of the partnership.


What happens if nothing is done for rotator cuff tear arthropathy (arthritis with a massive rotator cuff tear) (best case/worst case scenarios)?

The rate of progression of rotator cuff tear arthropathy (shoulder arthritis with a massive rotator cuff defect) is usually slow, thus surgery is not urgent.

What options exist for surgery for rotator cuff tear arthropathy (arthritis with a massive rotator cuff tear)?

Three types of surgery can be helpful in the management of rotator cuff tear arthropathy (shoulder arthritis associated with massive rotator cuff defects). The surgical procedures can range from a simple smoothing of the roughened bone to a resurfacing of the humeral head with a smooth prosthesis, such as a CTA head, fixed to the shaft of the arm bone (humerus). If the joint is unstable, a reversed prosthesis, such as the reverse Delta may be needed.

When performed by an experienced surgeon, how effective is shoulder joint replacement surgery with a rotator cuff tear arthropathy (cta) prosthesis for rotator cuff tear arthropathy (arthritis with a massive rotator cuff tear) likely to be and how long will the benefit last?

In the hands of an experienced surgeon, shoulder arthroplasty with a rotator cuff tear arthropathy prosthesis can be helpful in restoring comfort and function to the shoulder of a well-motivated individual. The greatest benefits are often the ability to sleep on the affected shoulder and the ability to perform simple activities of daily living. As long as the shoulder is cared for properly and subsequent injuries are avoided, the benefit can last for years.


How urgent is shoulder joint replacement surgery with a rotator cuff tear arthropathy (cta) prosthesis for rotator cuff tear arthropathy (arthritis with a massive rotator cuff tear)?

In that rotator cuff tear arthropathy progresses slowly, consideration of surgery is not urgent. Before surgery is undertaken, the individual needs to be in optimal health, understand and accept the risks and alternatives of surgery, and understand the postoperative rehabilitation program.

Only if there is concern about the possibility of infection in a swollen, warm and red shoulder does urgent surgery demand consideration.

What are the most frequent and most serious risks of shoulder joint replacement surgery with a rotator cuff tear arthropathy (cta) prosthesis for rotator cuff tear arthropathy (arthritis with a massive rotator cuff tear)? How common are they?

Like all surgical procedures, shoulder replacement surgery for rotator cuff tear arthropathy carries risks that are important for the individual to consider. The risks of this surgery include but are not limited to the following: infection (which can be sufficiently serious to require revision surgery, including removal of the prosthesis), injury to nerves and blood vessels, fracture, stiffness or instability of the joint, loosening of the prosthesis, pain, failure of tendon or muscle attachment, and the need for additional surgeries ? any or all of which may result in major loss of function to the arm. There are also risks of anesthesia and blood transfusion (although transfusions are not usually necessary). An experienced shoulder joint replacement team will use special techniques to minimize these risks, but cannot totally eliminate them.


If risks occur during or after shoulder joint replacement surgery with a rotator cuff tear arthropathy (cta) prosthesis for rotator cuff tear arthropathy (arthritis with a massive rotator cuff tear) how are they managed?

Many of the risks of shoulder replacement surgery can be effectively managed if they are promptly identified and treated. Infections may require a wash out in the operating room--occasionally removal of the prosthesis is necessary. Blood vessel or nerve injury may require repair. Fracture may require surgical fixation. Stiffness or instability may require exercises or additional surgery. Loosening of the prosthesis may require surgical revision. If the individual has questions or concerns about the course after surgery, the surgeon should be informed as soon as possible.

Surgery for Rotator cuff tear arthropathy (arthritis with a massive rotator cuff tear) 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 206-598-7416 to make an appointment.


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