What Is A Reverse Shoulder Replacement?
Shoulder arthritis is a degenerative disorder that affects millions of people in India, causing chronic joint pain, weakness, and limited mobility. This condition is prevalent among older adults and usually results from shoulder injuries or gradual wear and tear on the joint over time. In the initial stages of arthritis treatment, healthcare providers typically recommend non-surgical interventions to relieve pain and other bothersome symptoms.
When To Have Reverse Shoulder Replacement?
Dr. Nawaid Ahmed usually recommends a reverse shoulder replacement procedure for patients suffering from a complicated form of shoulder arthritis called rotator cuff tear arthropathy. This condition occurs when the muscles responsible for centering the ball (head of the humerus) in the socket (glenoid portion of the shoulder blade) move higher than the socket due to a long-standing rotator cuff tear.A traditional shoulder replacement surgery relies on the rotator cuff muscles to hold the replacement components in place and enable movement. As a result, it is usually recommended for patients with shoulder arthritis. However, in a reverse shoulder replacement, the deltoid muscle provides stability and mobility. This procedure is often recommended for patients with rotator cuff tear arthropathy, an irreparable rotator cuff tear, or a failed shoulder replacement surgery.
How Is A Reverse Shoulder Replacement Different From A Shoulder Replacement?
A reverse shoulder replacement surgery is similar to a traditional shoulder replacement procedure in that Dr. Nawaid Ahmed replaces the damaged cartilage and bone in the shoulder joint with medical-grade metal and plastic components. However, this technique alters the mechanics of the joint by allowing the deltoid muscle to move and stabilize it. Normally, a healthy shoulder joint relies on the rotator cuff for stability and movement.
To perform this procedure, Dr. Nawaid Ahmed first creates a small incision in the front of the joint. Then, he removes the damaged natural cartilage and bone and replaces them with synthetic components. In a reverse shoulder replacement, the ball and socket are reversed, with the ball being placed on the glenoid (socket) and the socket on the humerus (ball). As a result, most patients experience pain-free, smooth movement of the shoulder joint.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ's)
On average, the surgery lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case
Yes, the procedure is particularly beneficial for athletes involved in contact sports, as it provides a durable solution to shoulder instability, allowing for a safe return to high-level activities