Endoprosthetics of the shoulder joint is a surgical intervention during which the damaged areas of the humerus and the articular cavity of the scapula are replaced with artificial implants. The operation helps to eliminate pain and restore mobility. In most cases, it returns a normal quality of life to the patient. The use of the method is indicated in cases where conservative treatment does not give a result or the structure of the joint is irreversibly changed.
Advantages of shoulder joint endoprosthetics
Endoprosthetics is considered an effective way to restore shoulder function in cases of severe injuries or chronic degenerative processes. The main advantages of the method:
- a significant reduction in pain syndrome, which often accompanies arthrosis or rheumatoid arthritis;
- restoration of anatomical shape and mobility in the shoulder joint;
- durability of prostheses — modern models serve 10—20 years or more;
- reducing the risk of repeated damage and faster return to normal activities;
- improvement of quality of life within a few weeks after surgery.
Endoprosthetics of the shoulder joint is performed under strict sterility control and under the supervision of an experienced orthopedic traumatologist. Modern implants are used, adapted to anatomical features in the human body. They provide an accurate restoration of the ratio of the humerus and the scapula cavity.
Cases when a shoulder joint replacement is indicated
The decision on the operation is made by the orthopedist after a clinical examination and instrumental diagnosis. The main indications for endoprosthetics:
- destruction of cartilage tissue in arthrosis or arthritis;
- complex fractures of the humerus that cannot be restored by other methods;
- consequences of rheumatoid arthritis with deformation of articular surfaces;
- joint dysplasia or congenital anatomical abnormalities;
- severe damage to the rotator cuff of the shoulder with loss of stability and limitation of mobility.
If conservative treatment does not produce an effect, and pain and movement restrictions persist, replacing the shoulder joint becomes the optimal solution to restore arm function.
In the practice of endoprosthetics, several types of implants are used. Their choice depends on the anatomy and condition of the tissues:
- Anatomical models restore the natural geometry of the shoulder. They are used mainly for fractures of the head of the humerus, when the rotator cuff is preserved.
- Reversible prosthesisare selected with significant damage to the tendons of the rotator cuff. It provides stability and allows you to compensate for the loss of muscle function.
- Partial constructionsreplace only the head of the humerus. They are used for certain types of fractures or local lesions.
In the selection of the best option, the doctor relies on the quality of bone tissue, the level of future load and the results of examinations.
When is shoulder endoprosthetics contraindicated?
Not in all cases, endoprosthetics is possible. Surgical intervention is not performed with active infectious processes, severe circulatory disorders or general weakening of the body. Contraindications also include:
- pronounced destruction of bone tissue, which makes it difficult to install the prosthesis;
- purulent inflammation in the shoulder area;
- diseases in which the patient cannot undergo rehabilitation after surgery;
- allergic reactions to implant materials.
The decision on the possibility of surgery is made individually after consultation and assessment of the general condition of the patient.
Rules of preparation for endoprosthetics of the shoulder joint
Before the operation, detailed preparation for endoprosthetics is carried out:
- general blood and urine tests;
- X-ray or CT scan to assess the condition of the shoulder joint;
- coordination of medications that the patient takes before surgery;
- consultation of an orthopedic traumatologist to determine the type of implant and how to install the prosthesis.
All examinations allow the doctor to accurately plan the course of the surgery and reduce the risks during anesthesia. After completing the preparatory phase, the patient is referred for a consultation to agree on the date of surgery and the recovery period.
How is the operation to replace the joint in the shoulder
Endoprosthetics of the shoulder joint is performed under general anesthesia or regional anesthesia. After processing the operating field, an incision is made to access the shoulder joint. Damaged areas of bone and cartilage tissue are removed, and an artificial implant is installed in their place. Installation of the prosthesis is carried out in the humerus and the articular cavity of the scapula under the control of special equipment. This accuracy makes it possible to correctly restore the anatomy of the joint.
Cement or cementless systems are used for fixation - the choice depends on the age of the patient, the condition of the bone tissue and the type of disease. The operation lasts an average of 1.5—2 hours, after which the patient goes to the postoperative department for observation.
Recovery and rehabilitation process after surgery
After surgery, the doctor monitors the patient's condition, conducts dressings and prescribes painkillers. The very next day, the first passive movements of the hand begin. Complete rehabilitation after endoprosthetics takes place in several stages:
- in the first 7—10 days — control of edema and gradual restoration of the volume of movements;
- after 2-3 weeks — performing special exercises under the supervision of a physiotherapist;
- after 6—8 weeks — gradual strengthening of muscles and return to daily activity.
The duration of recovery depends on the type of implant, the patient's age and compliance with the doctor's recommendations. Full mobility in the shoulder joint usually returns within 3—12 months, depending on the nature of the operation and the presence of concomitant diseases.
Return to daily activities occurs gradually and only after the permission of the doctor. You can usually drive a car in 4-6 weeks. Strength training and sports add caution, focusing on the type of prosthesis, the quality of muscle stabilization and the results of physiotherapy.
Regular exercise helps to avoid incorrect compensatory movements and accelerates the recovery of shoulder function within the natural course of rehabilitation.
Can there be complications when replacing the shoulder joint?
Like any surgical intervention, endoprosthetics can be accompanied by risks. Most often it is temporary pain or limited mobility after surgery. Complications related to infection or implant instability are less common. To prevent these conditions, strict sterility protocols are followed in the clinic, and the patient is under the constant supervision of an orthopedic doctor.
Timely diagnosis, proper preparation for surgery and competent rehabilitation minimize all possible risks and ensure the durability of the implant.
Why you should choose Mashtaler Clinic for treatment
- Experience of doctors. Replacement of the shoulder joint in Lviv is carried out by a team of orthopedists and traumatologists with more than 20 years of practice. Each doctor has experience with different types of implants and undergoes regular training according to international standards.
- Accuracy of interventions. Installation of the prosthesis is performed under the control of modern video systems, which allows you to accurately reproduce the anatomical position of the joint cavity and humerus.
- Modern equipment. The clinic uses proven implants made of biocompatible materials, which provide stability in the shoulder joint and reduce the risk of complications.
- Phased rehabilitation. The patient receives an individual recovery program after surgery — from initial passive movements to controlled exercises to restore muscle strength.
- Transparency of treatment. The clinic clearly explains each stage of preparation, treatment and recovery, so that the patient understands his condition and prognosis. We always explain in detail what the price of a shoulder joint replacement depends on, what benefits you get and what risks exist.
- International Partnerships.Our clinic cooperates with leading European specialists to solve complex clinical cases.
Mashtaler Ortho&Trauma specializes in complex cases of endoprosthetics, offering high precision surgery and long-term supervision. Patients go the full way from diagnosis to return to mobility.
Price for endoprosthetics of the shoulder joint in Lviv
The cost of surgery depends on the complexity of the surgery, the type of implant and the duration of rehabilitation. The exact price of shoulder joint endoprosthetics is determined after consulting a doctor and evaluating individual indications for surgery.
