Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement

A reverse total shoulder replacement is also known as a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (or reverse TSA).

At Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow, we understand how debilitating shoulder pain can be and are committed to helping our patients find relief. If you are experiencing chronic shoulder pain, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced orthopedic surgeons to discuss whether a reverse total shoulder replacement may be right for you. We have locations in Atlanta and Marietta, Georgia. 

Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back any longer – take the first step towards a pain-free life today!

What Is a Reverse Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

A reverse shoulder joint replacement surgery is a procedure that replaces a damaged or diseased shoulder joint with an artificial one. During a reverse shoulder joint replacement surgery, the surgeon removes the damaged or diseased shoulder joint and replaces it with an artificial joint that consists of a ball and socket. 

Reverse total shoulder replacement is an orthopedic procedure performed to treat conditions such as cuff tear arthropathy (a type of shoulder arthritis that occurs after a massive rotator cuff tear) and damage to the rotator cuff muscles.

Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement Surgery vs Traditional Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Unlike a traditional shoulder joint replacement — where the ball is placed on the upper arm bone and the socket is placed on the shoulder blade — in a reverse shoulder joint replacement surgery, the ball is placed on the shoulder blade, and the socket is placed on the upper arm bone.

This reversal of the joint’s anatomy helps to compensate for the loss of function in the rotator cuff tendons. The rotator cuff tendons are a group of muscles and tendons that attach the shoulder blade to the upper arm bone and allow for arm movement and rotation.

In patients with a damaged rotator cuff, the tendons may be unable to provide the necessary support for the ball and socket joint, resulting in pain, weakness, and limited range of motion.

By placing the ball on the shoulder blade and the socket on the upper arm bone, the reverse shoulder joint replacement surgery allows the deltoid muscle — which is responsible for lifting the arm — to take over the function of the rotator cuff tendons, improving overall shoulder function and reducing pain.

Who Is a Candidate for Reverse Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

Reverse shoulder replacement surgery is a treatment option for individuals who have shoulder conditions such as psoriatic shoulder arthritis, a large rotator cuff tear, or a massive rotator cuff tear that cannot be repaired through traditional shoulder replacement surgery.

The procedure is typically recommended for individuals who have experienced significant shoulder pain and reduced mobility as a result of their condition.

Why Have a Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty?

A reverse shoulder arthroplasty may be necessary for individuals with a large or massive rotator cuff tear who have not responded to other treatment options. It can relieve pain, improve mobility in the shoulder, provide better outcomes, preserve the function of the shoulder, and offer better long-term results.

A consultation with an orthopedic surgeon is necessary to determine if reverse shoulder replacement surgery is the best treatment option for each individual case.

What Happens During a Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement Procedure?

The following is what happens during a reverse total shoulder replacement procedure:

1. Anesthesia: The patient is given general anesthesia or a nerve block to ensure that they do not feel any pain during the procedure. 
2. Incision: The surgeon makes an incision in the front of the shoulder to access the damaged joint. 
3. Removal of the damaged joint: The surgeon removes the damaged joint, including any bone spurs or damaged rotator cuff muscles.
4. Preparation of the bone: The surgeon prepares the bone to receive the artificial joint by removing any remaining cartilage and roughening the surface of the bone.
5. Insertion of the artificial joints: The prosthetic components are inserted into the shoulder bone using screws and other fixation devices to secure them into place.
6. Closure: The surgeon closes the incision with stitches or staples, and the shoulder is bandaged and immobilized to aid in healing.

What Is the Recovery Process Like After a Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement Procedure?

Here is what you can expect during the recovery process after a reverse total shoulder replacement procedure:

1. Immediately After Surgery: The first few days after surgery will be spent in the hospital. Pain management and wound care will be the primary focus. You will be encouraged to move your fingers, wrist, and elbow on the operated side. Physical therapy may begin while in the hospital, and you will learn how to safely move your arm.
2. Week 1-2: During the first few weeks following surgery, you will be encouraged to continue moving your fingers, wrist, and elbow. Physical therapy will be a priority during this time. You will work on passive range of motion exercises and start working on strengthening exercises for the shoulder.
3. Week 3-6: At this stage, you will start to notice some improvement in your range of motion. Physical therapy will continue to focus on improving your range of motion and building strength in the shoulder muscles. You may also begin to work on some functional activities.
4. Week 6-12: By this point, you should have a significant improvement in your range of motion and strength. Physical therapy will continue to work on improving range of motion and strengthening the shoulder muscles. You will start to work on more challenging functional activities, such as reaching and lifting.

Long-Term Things to Keep in Mind:

• Physical therapy may need to continue for several months after the surgery to ensure optimal recovery.
• It is important to avoid high-impact activities and heavy lifting for at least six months after surgery.
• You may need to make some lifestyle adjustments, such as learning to sleep in a different position, to avoid putting too much strain on the shoulder.
• You may need to avoid certain sports, such as contact sports, that can put too much strain on the shoulder.
• Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are necessary to monitor your progress and ensure that the joint is functioning correctly.

Get Help for Your Shoulder Pain

If you are suffering from a rotator cuff tear or cuff tear arthropathy, a reverse shoulder replacement procedure may be the solution to regain function and mobility in your shoulder. 

Our expert orthopedic team at Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about this innovative procedure and how it can improve your quality of life! We have locations in Marietta and Atlanta, GA for your convenience.