A visit to a shoulder replacement surgeon is an important step towards understanding your condition and finding out what treatment plan the doctor creates for you, whether or not it involves surgery.
If you have shoulder arthritis, you could be a good candidate for shoulder replacement surgery. Make no mistake, it is a highly complex procedure that requires a lot of preparation. Trust only a board-certified and fellowship trained orthopedic surgeon with the procedure.
Let’s talk about some of the things you can do to prepare for your visit to the doctor. By being well-prepared, you can make the most of your consultation and feel confident in your treatment options.
Bring All Necessary Documents
You will need to take your medical records with you to the appointment. This includes any previous imaging results, such as X-rays, related to your shoulder condition. Also, make a list of all current medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as any allergies you have. Your government issued identification and insurance card will also be needed at the appointment.
Prepare to Discuss Your Symptoms
Take note of your shoulder symptoms, such as pain, stiffness, weakness, or limitations in range of motion. Record when the symptoms started, what triggers or worsens them, and any activities or movements that provide relief.
Be prepared to discuss when it started. Is it from exercise or the work that you do? Did you start a new sport or exercise? Or did it originate from heavy yard work? Moreover, how would you describe the pain? Is it dull, sharp, or stabbing? All these details will help the hand surgeon in their evaluation and diagnosis.
Understand the Implications of a Shoulder Replacement
Shoulder replacement, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pain, improve function, and enhance the quality of life of individuals with severe shoulder joint damage.
The primary goal of shoulder replacement is to replace the damaged parts of the shoulder joint with artificial components, allowing for improved joint function, increased range of motion, and reduced pain.
Prepare a List of Questions
Prepare a list of questions or concerns you have regarding your shoulder condition, the potential need for surgery, and the expected outcomes. This will help ensure that you address all your concerns during the appointment.
Examples of questions may include inquiries about:
- The surgery – What does it entail? What anesthesia is used? How long is the hospital stay?
- The recovery timeline – When would I be able to drive again? When can I return to work?
- Activity modification – What movements should I avoid after surgery? How long will my shoulder be in a sling?
- Potential risks or complications – What are the risks of the surgery? How can they be avoided?
- Expected post-surgery rehabilitation – How long does physical therapy take? Where can I go for physical therapy sessions?
Asking questions is important in order to educate you on what’s to come, manage your expectations, and minimize the risk of surprises along the way.
What Conditions Can Be Treated by Shoulder Replacement?
Shoulder replacement surgery is commonly performed to treat advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis, which can cause debilitating pain, stiffness, and loss of function in the shoulder joint.
Other conditions that may warrant shoulder replacement include avascular necrosis (bone death), severe shoulder fractures, rotator cuff arthropathy (irreparable rotator cuff tear), and certain cases of failed previous shoulder surgeries.
What Happens During a Shoulder Replacement?
- Anesthesia: Shoulder replacement is typically performed under general anesthesia, although regional anesthesia may be used.
- Incision and Access: The surgeon will make an incision in the shoulder area in order to gain access to the shoulder joint.
- Resurfacing or Replacement: The damaged portions of the shoulder joint, including the humeral head and the glenoid socket, may be resurfaced or replaced with artificial components made of metal or plastic. A total shoulder replacement is usually recommended if the patient has bone-on-bone arthritis and has an intact rotator cuff. A reverse shoulder replacement is recommended if the rotator cuff is completely torn.
- Closure and Recovery: The incision is closed using sutures or staples, and dressing is applied. The patient is then taken to the recovery area for monitoring.
What to Expect After Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
Recovery begins right after surgery when the patient wakes up. Here are some things you should know:
The Hospital Stay
The length of the hospital stay varies but is typically 1 to 2 days for most patients. During this time, pain management, physical therapy, and post-operative care will be provided.
Rehabilitation
Following surgery, a rehabilitation program involving physical therapy is crucial to regain shoulder strength, flexibility, and function. A physical therapist will guide you through exercises and activities to aid in recovery.
Recovery Timeline
The recovery period can vary, but it generally takes several months for full recovery. Pain and discomfort gradually subside, and improvements in shoulder function become more noticeable over time. Generally, the more committed you are to your physical therapy program, the faster you can recover.
Long-Term Outcomes
Shoulder replacement surgery can provide significant pain relief and improved function, allowing individuals to resume daily activities and participate in sports or recreational activities with less discomfort. By being well-informed and discussing your concerns and expectations with the surgeon, you can make an informed decision and approach the surgery with confidence.
Shoulder Replacement Doctor in Baltimore, MD
Trust the top surgeons at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder with the care of your shoulder. We bring together the most qualified orthopedic hand surgeons capable of treating the most complex upper extremity conditions with the most cutting-edge techniques and technologies in orthopedic care.
Our friendly staff will match you with a doctor appropriate to your needs. To schedule a consultation, call us today at (410) 296-6232 or use our convenient online request form.
