Shoulder Replacement

The shoulder joint can be affected by many forms of arthritis. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and traumatic arthritis are the most common types affecting the shoulder. Shoulder replacement (or shoulder arthroplasty) can be performed in many patients who have pain which has not responded to other treatments. Though less common than hip or knee replacements, shoulder arthroplasty has been performed since the 1950's with good success. The results of replacement surgery depend greatly on the type of arthritis, the quality of the bone, and the condition of the muscles around the shoulder. The primary goal of replacement surgery is pain relief. Shoulder arthroplasty is generally effective in relieving pain. The secondary goal of replacement surgery is improvement in range of motion and function. The extent of improvement varies greatly depending on the severity of the preoperative condition, the preoperative range of motion, and the postoperative rehabilitation. A shoulder replacement consists of two major parts, a humeral component, which replaces the bone at the end of the upper arm, and a glenoid component, which replaces the shoulder blade socket. The humeral component is made of metal, and the glenoid component of plastic. In some circumstances, such as severe fractures, only the humeral component is used. This is referred to as a hemiarthroplasty.