Total Shoulder Replacement

Technique:

Total shoulder replacement surgery, the ball and socket that have been damaged by arthritis are removed and replaced with implants. The primary goal of shoulder replacement surgery is pain relief, with a secondary benefit of restoring motion, strength, and function. The surgery involves replacing the humeral head (or joint "ball") and the glenoid (called the "socket") Total shoulder replacement, however, requires open surgery. The procedure takes approximately1-2 hours

What to Expect-Day of Surgery:

This is an inpatient surgery. The average stay in the hospital is 2-4 days. It varies depending on each individual. The procedure takes 1-2 hours depending on the complexity. Usually general anesthesia is used; your anesthesiologist will discuss this with you prior to the surgery.

What to Expect-After Surgery:

After the surgery is complete, 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. Appropriate pain medicines are prescribed to make you comfortable.  Prior to going home, all arrangements will be made to arrange for home visiting personnel, equipment and medicines. 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.