Shoulder Replacement: Diagnosis, Surgery & Recovery

Shoulder Replacement Diagnosis

An orthopedic surgeon usually conducts a thorough physical examination of the affected shoulder joint to assess the tenderness and swelling. The doctor may also ask about the symptoms, including the intensity of the pain while putting slight pressure on the fingertips on the affected area. 

A healthcare provider usually suggests a variety of diagnostic tests to detect the root cause and to determine the best-suited technique for the shoulder joint. Some common diagnostic tests are as follows:

• X-ray: This test is usually recommended to get a clear picture of the shoulder joint. It helps the surgeon decide the type of technique for the shoulder replacement treatment.
• MRI: A doctor usually recommends this imaging test to get intricate images of the tissues and organs of the affected area.
• Electromyography(EMG): This diagnostic test is usually recommended to assess the health of the muscles and the nerve cells that control them. It helps in detecting nerve and muscle dysfunction. 

Benefits of Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Benefits of shoulder replacement include:

• Pain relief: Pain is arguably the most widely expressed concern associated with shoulder arthritis. With a new and healthy joint, pain is significantly lessened.
• Increased range of motion: A new shoulder joint will alleviate any stiffness associated with shoulder arthritis. This will allow for better flexibility and increased mobility in this joint.
• Long-lasting results: While the longevity of an artificial joint varies depending on multiple factors, most patients can expect their replacement to last more than a decade.
• Increased strength: Postoperatively, there is a focus on strengthening the deltoid and other muscles around the shoulder to optimize function.

What Should I Expect After Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

After undergoing shoulder replacement surgery, your recovery will involve a gradual improvement in shoulder function and a reduction in pain. Keep in mind that your experience may vary based on the specific procedure, your overall health, and how well you follow postoperative instructions. Here are the general expectations for the recovery process:

• Hospital stay: You typically stay in the hospital for a few days for close monitoring and initial rehabilitation.
• Pain management: Pain and discomfort in the shoulder area are normal after surgery, but your healthcare team will provide medication to help manage it during your hospital stay and at home.
• Immobilization: Initially, your shoulder may be immobilized with a sling to protect the joint and aid healing.
• Physical therapy: Physical therapy is essential for recovery. You must start with gentle exercises to improve your range of motion and gradually progress to strengthening exercises.
• Follow-up appointments: Attend all the follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor the recovery.
• Activity restrictions: Your surgeon provides specific instructions on activities to avoid or limit during the early recovery phase to protect the healing joint.
• Swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising around the shoulder are common but should gradually improve.
• Full recovery: Complete recovery may take several months, and you will notice improvements in shoulder function over time with patience and adherence to the physical therapy plan.
• Lifestyle changes: Depending on your shoulder’s condition, you may need to make lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding certain activities or heavy lifting to protect the new joint.
• Long-term results: With successful surgery and postoperative care, you can expect improved shoulder function, reduced pain, and an enhanced quality of life in the long run.

Remember, individual recovery experiences vary, so follow your healthcare team’s guidance and attend all appointments to ensure a successful recovery after shoulder replacement surgery.

Recovery Tips for Shoulder Replacement Surgery

The recovery process is not complicated at all. But it is necessary to follow the guidelines given by your doctor without fail to ensure a smooth recovery. 

• Take all the medications on time prescribed by your orthopedic surgeon. 
• It is advisable not to do any strenuous activities post-shoulder replacement surgery. 
• Avoid lifting any heavy objects as they may put excessive pressure on the surgical site.
• Consult your doctor if you feel any odd signs post-shoulder replacement surgery.
• Avoid driving for at least a month or as advised by your doctor. 
• Do not sleep on the side of the surgical site.

Average Cost of Shoulder Replacement Surgery in India

The average cost of shoulder replacement surgery in India typically ranges from around INR 1,50,000 to INR 2,00,000. This is the estimated cost of surgery, the final cost of surgery can vary depending on various factors, including:

• Choice of treatment hospital
• Choice of the hospital room
• Surgeon’s fees
• Type of surgery
• The extent of joint degeneration
• Type of implant used
• Cost of anesthesia and other surgical equipment
• Cost of medications and assistive devices required post-surgery
• insurance cover shoulder replacement surgery 
• Postoperative physiotherapy and care required
• Post-surgery consultation charges

Are there any Complications and Risks involved in Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

Mostly shoulder replacement surgery is safe and effective, but like any surgical procedure, it also carries certain risks and complications. Some common risks and complications associated with shoulder replacement surgery are as follows:   

• Dislocation: In some cases, it’s possible for the ball of your new joint to come out of the socket.
• Fracture: The humerus bone, the scapula, or the glenoid bone can break during or after surgery.
• Implant loosening: Shoulder replacement components are durable, but they may loosen or become worn over time. In some cases, you may need another surgery to replace the loose components.
• Rotator cuff failure: The group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint (the rotator cuff) occasionally wears out after a partial or total anatomic shoulder replacement.
• Nerve damage: Nerves in the area where the implant is placed can be injured. Nerve damage can cause numbness, weakness, and pain.
• Blood clots:  Clots can form in the veins of the leg or arm post-surgery. This can be dangerous because a piece of a clot can break off and travel to the lung, the heart, or, rarely, the brain.
• Infection: There is a rare chance of infection at the incision site or in the deeper tissue. Surgery is sometimes needed to treat it.

Questions to Ask Your Surgeon Before Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Before shoulder replacement surgery, it is important to ask the following questions to your healthcare provider to have a better understanding of the procedure and the risks and complications associated with it:

• How long does it take to recover from shoulder replacement surgery?
• Is shoulder replacement surgery painful?
• What are the potential risks and complications of shoulder replacement surgery? 
• Is surgery good for shoulder replacement?
• What is the best surgery for shoulder replacement?
• What is the cost of shoulder replacement surgery in India?
• What are the benefits of shoulder replacement surgery?
• What is the success rate of shoulder replacement surgery?
• How long is bed rest after shoulder replacement surgery?
• What are the other treatment options for shoulder replacement except for surgery?
• What are the long-term benefits of shoulder replacement surgery?
• What are the different types of shoulder replacement surgery?
• How to treat anterior shoulder replacement?
• How serious is a total shoulder replacement?
• How long is recovery for a full shoulder replacement?