Shoulder Replacement Surgery in Hackensack, NJ
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint made up of three bones: the humerus, scapula and clavicle. The ball (humeral head) of the upper arm bone fits into a socket in your shoulder blade forming the glenoid. Together with tendons, muscles and ligaments, these bones hold the shoulder in place and allow for a full range of movement. Osteoarthritis , rheumatoid arthritis and severe injury like a fracture or broken bone can cause dysfunction to the shoulder joint and require its replacement.
Shoulder replacement surgery, also commonly referred to as a shoulder arthroplasty, is often recommended when your shoulder pain does not respond to less-invasive treatment options. Through the use of artificial joints, shoulder replacement focuses on alleviating your pain and discomfort while also addressing the decreased range of motion in your shoulder along with improving its overall strength.
To schedule a consultation with a qualified orthopaedic surgeon in Hackensack that specializes in shoulder replacement surgery, call (201) 806-6099 or contact Dr. M.T. Shahab online.
Your Shoulder Replacement Consultation & Surgery Prep
Your healthcare provider will conduct a thorough in-office exam to check the range of motion in your shoulder joint and to identify any existing damage to the area. He or she will dive into your medical history to learn about previous injury or disease that may interfere with a successful shoulder joint replacement. Your healthcare provider may take X-rays, an MRI or conduct a CT scan to get images of your shoulder and to check for degradation in the shoulder's muscles, tendons and ligaments from degenerative conditions like arthritis.
Once your surgery is scheduled, your healthcare provider may request additional testing as you draw closer to your surgery day. Blood tests, an electrocardiogram (EKG) or an additional physical examination may be required, especially if you have other chronic health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.
The night before surgery you may not eat or drink. Some medications may require discontinuation, however, you should only cease the use of your medication under the guidance of your healthcare provider.
What to Expect During Your Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Your surgery will require the use of general anesthesia. During your total shoulder replacement surgery, your surgeon will replace the humeral head with a metal ball, and the glenoid with a plastic insert. Your procedure will transpire as follows:
- An incision is made around the shoulder joint near side or front of arm
- Muscles are moved away from joint to allow access for the surgeon
- Shoulder is moved away from joint and humeral head is removed
- Glenoid cavity is cleaned out to allow space for an implant.
- A polyethylene plastic insert is fitted into the glenoid cavity
- Metal ball is fitted to end of humeral stem
- Shoulder joint is rejoined and surrounding tissues are returned to position
- Incision is closed up with stitches
The surgery takes 1-3 hours and will require overnight stay in the hospital and up to 3 days thereafter. Your arm will be immobilized and you will be prescribed pain medication to help with any discomfort. An x-ray will be taken shortly after your procedure to ensure proper placement of the artificial joint.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery Recovery
Physical therapy will be the most critical recovery tool to ensure your shoulder heals properly and to rebuild your strength. Physical therapy will start in the hospital setting and your physical therapist will teach you safe techniques for movement such as passive stretching exercises. Soon after surgery you will be able to use your hand and wrist for basic, non-weight baring activities. Light activity which effects the shoulder will need to be avoided for 6-8 weeks. It is vital to follow the post-operative instructions given to you by your healthcare provider like keeping the incision area clean and dry, and not bypassing any part of the recovery process.
After the immobilization and recovery time, you will begin to conduct more extensive physical therapy. Your rehabilitation will be dependent on a number of factors, including the health of the surrounding muscle and tendons. Full recovery can take up to a year. Many patients are able to return to activities they once enjoyed but were unable to complete because of arthritis or injury. Expect your overall strength and range of motion to greatly improve, while your pain levels diminish to undetectable levels.
Shoulder pain can greatly limit your activities and effect your quality of life. Stop living with unnecessary pain! To schedule a consultation with a qualified orthopedic surgeon in Hackensack that can perform shoulder replacement surgery, call (201) 806-6099 or contact Dr. M.T. Shahab online.
Medwell Orthopedics & Functional Medicine for Men & Women
Address
33 Central AveMidland Park, NJ 07432
(201) 806-6099
www.BergenCountyDoctors.com
Hours
Mon:
8:00 am - 8:00 pm
Tue:
2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Wed:
8:00 am - 6:30 pm
Thu:
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Fri:
8:00 am - 6:30 pm
Sat:
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Sun:
By Appointment Only