About Shoulder Replacement
Surgery
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Q) Once I decide to have the surgery, how soon can it actually take place?
A) Once your insurance is approved and medical clearance is granted, the surgery can then be scheduled.
Q) What materials will replace the bones in my shoulder?
A) A metal alloy replaces the ball portion of the shoulder joint, and the socket may or may not be replaced with a high grade plastic.
Q) How painful is total shoulder replacement?
A) As with all forms of surgery, shoulder replacement surgery is painful, but the pain is manageable with narcotic pain medicines and anti-inflammatories. For the first one to two days after surgery, pain is very well controlled with a PCA (patient controlled anesthesia) or intravenous narcotics. After that, oral medications, such as Percocet or Vicodin, are usually adequate. Sometimes patients require further (but less frequent) pain medication once they leave the hospital. Typically within two to three weeks after surgery, most patients find that their pain is greatly diminished and nothing stronger than aspirin or Motrin is needed.
Q) What are the possible complications?
A) During your hospital stay, pneumonia and urinary tract infections are possibilities. Infections are the most common complication and these can be prevented with pre-operative and post-operative antibiotics and gentle exercises which begin soon after surgery.
Q) Is bleeding around the incision after surgery normal?
A) It is not unusual to have some mild bleeding that soaks through the dressing but this should have stopped before you are released from the hospital. Should this happen and you are at home, you should reinforce the dressing with more sterile gauze. However, if bleeding persists, contact the office
Q) What if I can't go home immediately after surgery?
A) Unfortunately, many patients don’t have a healthy spouse or close family member at home to help them during the initial days and weeks after surgery. For those unable to depend on family or close friends, staying in a skilled nursing facility at the hospital for one to three weeks is occasionally an alternative.
Q) Are there important tips for post-joint replacement surgery?
A) It’s critically important to avoid situations in which you could fall or injure your joint. You may need some assistance for a few weeks, especially while you are regaining your balance, strength, and flexibility. Follow the instructions from your physical therapist regarding regular, light exercise. You will need to take antibiotics prior to dental surgery or any other surgery to prevent bacteria from entering your bloodstream.
Q) When can I return to regular exercise?
A) Most patients who undergo total shoulder replacement are ready to return to exercise and light activities, such as golf, within three to four months after surgery. Follow the instructions from your physical therapist regarding regular, light exercise.
A) Most shoulder replacements can be expected to last 10 to 15 years. If you are overweight or extremely active, your new shoulder’s life span may be shorter.
