Shoulder replacement surgery, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in shoulders affected by severe arthritis or irreparable damage. This procedure involves replacing damaged parts of the shoulder joint with artificial components, typically made of metal and plastic. Dr. Prashant Tripathi of Prayagraj, renowned for his expertise in orthopedic surgeries, offers a comprehensive understanding of this procedure.

Understanding the anatomy of the shoulder is crucial for comprehending shoulder replacement surgery. The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint comprising the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone). The head of the humerus fits into a shallow socket in the scapula called the glenoid. Surrounding the joint are tendons, ligaments, and muscles that facilitate movement and stability.

Types of Shoulder Replacement Surgery:

Total Shoulder Replacement: In this procedure, both the ball and socket of the shoulder joint are replaced with artificial components. It is suitable for patients with arthritis affecting both parts of the joint.

Partial Shoulder Replacement: Also known as hemiarthroplasty, this surgery involves replacing only the ball of the shoulder joint. It is usually recommended for patients with severe fractures or other damage limited to the humeral head.

Reverse Shoulder Replacement: This innovative procedure is often recommended for patients with complex shoulder conditions such as irreparable rotator cuff tears. It involves reversing the anatomy of the shoulder joint by placing the ball component on the scapula and the socket component on the humerus.