Limited mobility in your shoulder may not always respond to nonsurgical treatments as well as you had hoped. As a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, Omar D. Hussamy, MD, understands how quickly shoulder pain and dysfunction can impact your daily life. At his office in Vero Beach, Florida, Dr. Hussamy can determine whether you’re an ideal candidate for shoulder replacement surgery. A total shoulder replacement allows you to regain the function of your shoulder without pain and discomfort. To schedule an appointment, call or book online today.

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What is a shoulder replacement?

Shoulder replacement surgery replaces the damaged parts of your shoulder with artificial prosthetics. The primary benefit of shoulder replacement is to significantly reduce pain and improve function and mobility in your shoulder.

Why would I need a shoulder replacement?

While there are many reasons you may need shoulder replacement surgery, degenerative conditions and injuries are the most common culprits. You may be a good candidate for this procedure if you have:

Arthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is called wear-and-tear arthritis because it gradually degrades the cartilage that cushions your joints. Over time, this cartilage can degenerate to the point that your bones rub together, leading to pain and decreased mobility.

Another common type of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), causes widespread joint inflammation and leads to cartilage loss, stiffness, and pain.

Bone break
Even if a severe bone fracture in your shoulder heals, you can continue experiencing pain, soreness, and stiffness. While physical therapy and nonsurgical treatments can help reduce pain, it may not be enough to regain the full function of your shoulder.

Avascular necrosis
Avascular necrosis is a condition that interrupts the blood supply to your bone, which can degrade your shoulder joint over time.

Rotator cuff tear arthropathy
An untreated or unhealed rotator cuff tear can lead to arthritis in your shoulder joint, which damages the cartilage.

Am I a candidate for shoulder replacement?

If you have moderate to severe shoulder pain that hasn’t responded to cortisone injections, physical therapy, or medication, then shoulder replacement surgery may be right for you.

Most candidates for a total shoulder replacement have:

  • Loss of shoulder mobility
  • Pain when resting
  • Reduced shoulder function
  • Shoulder replacement surgery is rarely the first treatment for shoulder pain.

What happens during shoulder replacement surgery?

Shoulder replacement surgery typically requires general anesthesia or sedation, which means you won’t be awake during the two-hour procedure.

During the surgery, Dr. Hussamy replaces the humeral head, or joint, with an artificial joint. He also replaces the socket, called the glenoid, with an artificial piece.

Dr. Hussamy and his team use the DJO Surgical® AltiVate® Anatomic Shoulder System for maximum comfort and mobility. Created with patented Drop and Go® technology, the system offers immediate fixation to fully restore your shoulder.

For expert shoulder replacement surgery, call Omar D. Hussamy, MD, or schedule an appointment online today.