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Shoulder replacement is a surgical procedure in which the damaged parts of the shoulder joint are replaced with artificial components, called a prosthesis. The goal of the procedure is to relieve pain, improve function, and restore mobility in the shoulder joint. There are two main types of shoulder replacements:

1. Total shoulder replacement (TSR): In this procedure, both the ball and socket parts of the shoulder joint are replaced with artificial components.
2. Reverse shoulder replacement (RSR): In this procedure, the ball and socket joint is reversed, and the artificial components are positioned differently to help shift the load-bearing responsibility from the damaged rotator cuff to the deltoid muscle.

The type of shoulder replacement performed will depend on the patient's specific condition and the recommendation of their doctor.

A reverse shoulder replacement is called so because the positions of the ball and socket are reversed from their natural positions in the shoulder joint. In a traditional shoulder joint, the ball is attached to the upper arm bone (humerus) and fits into the socket (glenoid) on the shoulder blade (scapula). In a reverse shoulder replacement, the ball and socket are switched, with the socket attached to the humerus and the ball attached to the scapula. This reversal of the ball and socket joint is what gives the procedure its name. The purpose of this switch is to shift the load-bearing responsibility from the damaged rotator cuff to the deltoid muscle, which can improve shoulder function and relieve pain

The outcomes of a shoulder replacement surgery can vary depending on the individual and the specific circumstances of the procedure. Here are some of the outcomes that you might expect after a shoulder replacement:

1. Pain relief: One of the primary goals of shoulder replacement surgery is to reduce or eliminate pain in the shoulder joint.
2. Improved function: After a shoulder replacement, most people experience improved range of motion, flexibility, and overall function in their shoulder.
3. Reduced joint stiffness: Shoulder replacement can also help reduce joint stiffness and increase mobility in the affected joint.
4. Faster recovery time: Minimally invasive surgical techniques used in some shoulder replacement procedures can lead to a faster recovery time compared to traditional open surgery.

It's important to note that the outcomes of shoulder replacement surgery can vary depending on several factors, such as age, overall health, and the extent of the joint damage. Your doctor will be able to provide a more accurate assessment of the outcomes you can expect based on your specific circumstances.

The lifespan of a shoulder replacement can vary depending on several factors, including the patient's age, overall health, and the type of prosthesis used. On average, shoulder replacements can last 10-20 years, although some may last longer or shorter.

Factors that can impact the longevity of a shoulder replacement include:

1. Activity level: Patients who are more physically active may put more wear and tear on their replacement joint, which can impact its lifespan.
2. Bone quality: If a patient has weakened or brittle bones, the joint replacement may not last as long as it would in a patient with healthy bones.
3. Surgical technique: The surgical technique used, as well as the experience of the surgeon, can impact the long-term success of the joint replacement.

It's important to remember that a shoulder replacement is a major surgical procedure and should be viewed as a long-term commitment. Regular follow-up appointments with your doctor and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help extend the life of your joint replacement and improve your overall outcomes.

Yes, it does matter which surgeon performs your shoulder replacement. The expertise and experience of the surgeon can have a significant impact on the success and outcome of the procedure.

Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a surgeon for your shoulder replacement:

1. Specialisation: Look for a surgeon who specialises exclusively in shoulder surgery and has extensive experience in performing shoulder replacements.
2. Training and certification: Make sure the surgeon is fellowship trained in shoulder surgery and has completed advanced training in joint replacement surgery.
3. Success rate: Ask the surgeon about their success rate with shoulder replacements, including any complications and revision surgeries that they have performed.
4. Patient reviews: Read reviews and testimonials from patients who have undergone shoulder replacement surgery with the surgeon.
5. Communication and bedside manner: Choose a surgeon who takes the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and explain the procedure in a way that you can understand.

It's important to choose a surgeon who you trust and feel comfortable with, as this can help ensure a positive experience and outcome for your shoulder replacement surgery.

Shoulder replacements can be very effective in reducing pain and improving function in the shoulder joint, and can provide the same level of pain relief and improved quality of life as hip or knee replacements.

Whilst Hip and knee replacements are more common and have a longer history of use they give similar results in terms of pain relief and improved function compared to shoulder replacements.

Shoulder replacements can be highly effective for many patients, especially those with advanced arthritis or other conditions that are causing significant pain and limiting mobility in the shoulder joint.

The best way to determine if a shoulder replacement is the right option for you is to discuss your specific circumstances with an experienced orthopaedic surgeon. They will be able to help you determine if a shoulder replacement is the right option for you and what outcomes you can expect.