Total Shoulder Replacement

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Total Shoulder Replacement

Total Shoulder Replacement at Swedish Medical Center

The shoulder joint is a ball and socket joint with cartilage in-between to allow smooth movement of the joint. The scapula, the clavicle and the spine help with the mobility of this joint. The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body because of the relatively unconstrained articulation between the humeral head and the smooth shallow depression called the glenoid. Shoulder motion is provided by the rotator cuff and deltoid muscles. Treatment for arthritis is done with two methods, the Glenohumeral fusion or the total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) depending on many factors.

About Total Shoulder Surgery

The shoulder replacement may involve replacement of the humeral component or the replacement of the humeral component along with the glenoid components depending on the condition of the surrounding ligaments and the shoulder stability.

1. The glenoid component is inserted first
2. The humerus is cut at the neck and the prosthesis is inserted into the humeral shaft.

Your physician and the surgical team will carefully select the size of your shoulder replacement, so it is individualized to you and your lifestyle. Because each patient is unique, please talk to your physician to find out more about your surgery.

When in place, these reconstruct the shoulder into a functional joint. After a successful operation, the shoulder is generally less painful and has good motion once you complete the postoperative therapy program ordered by your physician.

Patient Information

Our patient education information helps you prepare for Total Shoulder Surgery:

Getting Ready for Your Surgery
- Special Reminders Before Surgery
What Will Happen the Day of Your Surgery
- Anesthesia Options

More details about your hospital stay, recovery and follow up care for Total Shoulder Replacements are available by attending one of Swedish's FREE total joint classes.

Total Shoulder Replacement