Know all about Shoulder Joint Replacement Surgery

Shoulder joint replacement surgery or shoulder arthroplasty is usually performed on patients with severe shoulder joint problems. However, total shoulder joint replacement or TSJR is not as common as knee or hip joints replacement.

Total shoulder Joint Replacement surgery has the power to effectively ease pain from shoulder arthritis or any real damage to the shoulder joints. Most of the shoulder joint replacement surgeries are successful and people experience improved shoulder function thereafter.

The total shoulder joint replacement surgery is performed in two ways: cemented prosthesis and uncemented prosthesis. In the first total shoulder joint replacement a type of epoxy cement attaches the metal to the bone. In the latter joint replacement a fine mesh of holes on the surface are planted. Bone grows into the mesh. And with the passing of time, this anchors the prosthesis to the bone.

Sometimes, a surgeon performing total shoulder joint replacement surgery also uses a combination of the two types. A surgeon determines the type of joint replacement based on age and lifestyle. Of course, the surgeon's experience is also another factor.

Here’s little information about what you would go through during the shoulder joint replacement surgery. The surgeon operating you will most likely give you general anesthesia for shoulder replacement surgery. This is to ensure that you sleep during the entire procedure as total shoulder replacement surgery is considered a major surgery. After the shoulder joint replacement, the incision in the shoulder joint is covered with a bandage. And yes, your arm will be placed in a sling. You would then get visits from a physical therapist after the total joint replacement surgery. He/she will recommend proper exercises to be done regularly. And after a few weeks you are ready to start afresh with no pain and a happy life.