Reverse Shoulder Replacement

Technique:

In this procedure, the goal of reverse total shoulder replacement is to restore some function to the joint destroyed as a result of cuff tear arthropathy. Patients who have a severe rotator cuff tear as well as arthritis in the shoulder may be candidates for reverse shoulder replacement. This procedure is developed for those who have exhausted all other treatment options.

What to Expect-Day of Surgery:

This is an inpatient surgery; the average stay in the hospital is 1-2 days. The procedure takes typically 2-3 hours, depending on the complexity. Usually general (or nerve block) anesthesia will be used.  Your anesthesiologist will discuss this with you prior to the surgery.

What to Expect-After Surgery:

After the Surgery you will be taken to the recovery room where you will stay for approximately 1-2 hours until stable and you will begin physical therapy typically the day of surgery if the surgery is early in the morning or the next day if the surgery is later in the day. The patient may be given appropriate pain medications prescribed by Dr. Ahluwalia orally or intravenously to make you are comfortable.   Each patient requires a different level of pain medication. Pain medication is usually not required after the first two weeks except for therapy in cases where the shoulder tightens up or scars. You will follow up with Dr. Ahluwalia in 10-14 days after surgery. At that visit, further physical therapy and activity restrictions will be discussed.