Reverse Shoulder Replacement

What is a Reverse Shoulder Replacement?

‍Reverse shoulder replacement is a specialized surgical procedure designed for patients with severe shoulder arthritis or massive rotator cuff tears that cannot be repaired. Unlike a traditional shoulder replacement, which mimics the anatomy of the natural shoulder, reverse shoulder replacement reverses the position of the ball and socket. The metal ball is placed on the shoulder blade (scapula), and the socket is attached to the upper arm bone (humerus).

This configuration leverages the deltoid muscle instead of the rotator cuff to power shoulder movement, making it an effective solution for patients with rotator cuff arthropathy or other complex shoulder conditions. Reverse shoulder replacement can significantly reduce pain, improve shoulder function, and enhance the quality of life for patients who may not be candidates for a traditional shoulder replacement.

Benefits of Reverse Shoulder Replacement

Reverse shoulder replacement offers several benefits, especially for patients with irreparable rotator cuff damage or severe arthritis:

• Pain Relief: Effectively reduces or eliminates chronic shoulder pain.
• Restored Function: Allows patients to regain the ability to lift their arm and perform daily tasks.
• Improved Quality of Life: Enables a return to independent living and activities.
• Durability: Modern implants are designed to provide long-lasting results.
• Versatility: Effective for complex shoulder conditions that cannot be addressed with traditional replacements.

These advantages make reverse shoulder replacement a life-changing option for patients with advanced shoulder dysfunction and pain.

Who is a Candidate for Reverse Shoulder Replacement?

Reverse shoulder replacement is ideal for patients with:

• Severe arthritis of the shoulder joint.
• Irreparable rotator cuff tears.
• Complex fractures of the shoulder joint.
• Chronic shoulder instability or failed previous shoulder surgeries.
• Significant loss of shoulder function or mobility.

A thorough evaluation, including a physical exam and imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI, helps determine if reverse shoulder replacement is the right option. This procedure is often recommended for older adults, but younger patients with debilitating shoulder conditions may also benefit.

Recovery and Long-Term Outlook

Recovery from reverse shoulder replacement involves a structured rehabilitation plan to ensure optimal healing and regain shoulder function.

• Hospital Stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days.
• Initial Recovery: The arm is typically placed in a sling for 4 to 6 weeks to protect the repair.
• Physical Therapy: Begins shortly after surgery to improve mobility, strength, and function.
• Return to Activities: Most patients resume light daily activities within 6 to 8 weeks and experience continued improvement over 6 months to a year.

With proper care and adherence to rehabilitation protocols, patients experience significant pain relief and improved shoulder function. Implants are designed to provide durable, long-term results, allowing patients to enjoy a better quality of life.

Why Choose Dr. Karan Raj Jaggi for Reverse Shoulder Replacement?‍

Dr. Karan Raj Jaggi is a leading orthopaedic surgeon with specialized expertise in complex shoulder surgeries, including reverse shoulder replacement. With years of experience and a commitment to innovation, Dr. Jaggi utilizes advanced techniques and customized surgical approaches to deliver optimal outcomes for his patients.As the Chief Medical Officer at Osso, Dr. Jaggi leads a dedicated team of orthopaedic specialists who provide personalized care from consultation to rehabilitation. Whether you are dealing with chronic shoulder pain, limited mobility, or a complex shoulder condition, Dr. Jaggi’s expertise and patient-focused approach ensure the best possible results. His reputation for excellence and dedication to restoring function and quality of life make him a trusted choice for reverse shoulder replacement in India.