Shoulder and Elbow Arthroplasty
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What is Shoulder and Elbow Arthroplasty?
Shoulder and elbow arthroplasty, or joint replacement surgery, is a procedure to replace a damaged joint with an artificial one. This surgery is often considered when severe pain and limited mobility significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
- Osteoarthritis: A degenerative joint disease that causes cartilage to wear down.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints.
- Fracture: A traumatic injury, such as a fracture, can damage the joint beyond repair.
- Total Anatomical Shoulder Arthroplasty: Replaces both the ball (humeral head) and socket (glenoid) portions of the shoulder joint.
- Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: A specialized technique where the ball and socket components are reversed, often used for rotator cuff tears.
- Hemiarthroplasty of shoulder: Only the ball (humeral head) is replaced leaving the socket (glenoid) intact.
- Total Elbow Arthroplasty: Replaces both the humerus and ulna components of the elbow joint.
- Hemiarthroplasty of elbow: Only the humerus component is replaced.
- Pain Relief: Significant reduction in pain and discomfort.
- Improved Mobility: Increased range of motion and ability to perform daily activities.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Improved overall quality of life and well-being.
While joint replacement surgery is generally safe and effective, potential risks and complications include:
- Infection: Risk of infection at the surgical site.
- Dislocation: The artificial joint may dislocate, especially in the early stages of recovery.
- Loosening: The joint components may loosen over time, requiring revision surgery.
Key Points to Remember
- Consult a Specialist : A qualified orthopedic surgeon can accurately diagnose your condition and recommend the best treatment plan.
- Consider Non-Surgical Options : Physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient for some conditions.
- Weigh the Risks and Benefits : Discuss the potential risks, benefits, and alternatives to surgery with your doctor.
- Ask Questions : Don't hesitate to ask your doctor any questions you may have about your condition and treatment options.
By working closely with your healthcare provider, you can make informed decisions about your knee health and choose the best course of action for your specific needs.