Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement

Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group. Our Orthopedic Department, recognized as one of the best in the region is equipped with advanced technology and staffed by highly skilled best orthopedic surgeons in Dubai. Many of our surgeons hold prestigious British and German Board Certifications, ensuring you receive the highest level of expertise for all your shoulder needs. If traditional shoulder replacement surgery isn’t the best solution for your condition, a Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement might offer a viable alternative to restore pain-free movement and function.

Procedure

Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement surgery is a specialized procedure that addresses a specific type of shoulder joint damage. Unlike a traditional shoulder replacement, which replaces the ball and socket of the joint, a reverse replacement swaps the positions of the implants. Here’s a breakdown of the procedure:

1. Anesthesia and Positioning: You’ll receive general anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the surgery. The surgeon positions you strategically to allow optimal access to the shoulder joint.
2. Incision and Exposure: A strategic incision is made to access the shoulder joint, minimizing damage to surrounding muscles and tissues.
3. Joint Evaluation and Preparation: The surgeon meticulously assesses the extent of damage to the joint surfaces and surrounding structures. Damaged cartilage and bone are carefully removed to prepare for implant placement.
4. Implant Selection and Positioning: Unlike a traditional replacement, in this procedure, a metal socket is implanted where the humeral head (ball) used to be. A plastic ball is then secured to the top of the glenoid (socket) bone. This reversed positioning aims to utilize the deltoid muscle, the main muscle responsible for shoulder movement, to improve function.
5. Closure and Stabilization: The surrounding tissues are carefully repaired, and the incision is closed.

Symptoms Indicating Potential Need for Reverse Surgery

Several signs might indicate that Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement surgery could be the solution for your chronic shoulder problems. If you experience any of the following and traditional treatment options haven’t provided relief, consult your doctor:

• Severe Shoulder Pain: Constant or severe pain in your shoulder, especially at night or with any movement, significantly impacting daily activities.
• Weakness and Difficulty with Activities: Significant weakness and a noticeable inability to raise your arm, even with minimal weight, due to severe rotator cuff tear or damage to the joint.
• Failed Rotator Cuff Repair: If a previous rotator cuff repair surgery hasn’t addressed the pain and weakness in your shoulder.
• Specific Rotator Cuff Tears: The presence of a massive rotator cuff tear, particularly involving the subscapularis tendon, which plays a crucial role in shoulder stability and function.
• Osteoarthritis with Rotator Cuff Tear: A combination of osteoarthritis, causing damage to the joint surfaces, and a significant rotator cuff tear can benefit from a reverse replacement.

Diagnosis: Confirming the Need for Reverse Surgery

A comprehensive evaluation by one of our highly skilled orthopedic surgeons is crucial to determine if Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement surgery is the most suitable course of action. The evaluation typically involves:

• Detailed Medical History: A discussion about your symptoms, duration, limitations they cause, any previous shoulder injuries or surgeries, and overall health.
• Physical Examination: The surgeon meticulously examines your shoulder for swelling, tenderness, range of motion, strength, and any creaking or popping sounds during movement. Specific tests to assess rotator cuff function may be conducted.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays provide a clear picture of bone alignment and damage to the joint surfaces. MRI scans reveal the extent of soft tissue damage and any rotator cuff tears.

Based on the evaluation findings, your surgeon will discuss the potential benefits and risks of Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement surgery compared to other treatment options.

Recovery Process and Protocols

Following Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement surgery, a dedicated team will guide you through a comprehensive recovery process:

Recovery from reverse total shoulder replacement surgery is carefully managed to optimize outcomes and restore shoulder function:

1. Hospital Stay: Patients typically stay in the hospital for a few days following surgery for monitoring and initial rehabilitation. Pain management and wound care are closely monitored during this time.
2. Physical Therapy: Early mobilization and physical therapy begin soon after surgery to improve shoulder strength, range of motion, and functional abilities. A customized rehabilitation program is designed to facilitate recovery and prevent stiffness.
3. Medication Management: Pain medications and antibiotics are prescribed as needed to manage discomfort and prevent infections post-surgery.
4. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments with the orthopedic surgeon are scheduled to monitor healing progress, assess implant stability, and adjust rehabilitation goals based on individual recovery milestones.
5. Gradual Return to Activities: Patients gradually resume activities of daily living and occupational or recreational activities as guided by their healthcare team. Full recovery and return to normal shoulder function can vary but generally occur within several months.