At Mid-America Orthopedics, we offer the complete line of joint replacement surgery. For upper extremity, this includes total shoulder replacement, humeral head resurfacing as well as reverse total shoulder replacement. From expert diagnosis and cutting-edge procedures to customized rehab therapy, Mid-America Orthopedics works hard to be a best practices organization focused on returning your quality of life. We’re a single-stop destination for a complete regimen of orthopedic care.
Mid-America Orthopedics has two surgeons who perform shoulder replacements: Dr. Strickland and Dr. Babb. Read on for information on shoulder replacements and what to expect when you visit Dr. Strickland or Dr. Babb.
TOTAL SHOULDER REPLACEMENT
A total shoulder replacement completely replaces the ball of the shoulder (humeral head) and the socket (glenoid) of the shoulder. It is performed for arthritis of the shoulder. Patients may have a pre-operative CT scan and with the use of 3-D technology, they will have a customized surgical plan. Dr. Strickland or Dr. Babb will remove the diseased humeral head and replace it with a short metal (cobalt chrome) stem and metal ball. The glenoid is carefully prepared and replaced with a new plastic (polyethylene) socket component. The procedure takes about 90 minutes and most patients stay in the hospital for one night; however, some total shoulder replacements can be performed as an outpatient basis depending on medical conditions and insurance.
You can expect to be in an abduction sling and pillow brace for six weeks following surgery. You will also work with a physical therapist on range of motion and strengthening exercises for about 3 months, which can be done in the Mid-America Orthopedics offices. Full use of the shoulder is not expected until at least 3 months following surgery. You can find full physical therapy protocols here for Dr. Strickland and Dr. Babb.
REVERSE TOTAL SHOULDER REPLACEMENT
Reverse total shoulder replacement is performed most typically for patients who suffer from arthritis of the shoulder due to a chronic rotator cuff tear. It can also be performed for irreparable rotator cuff tears and shoulder arthritis with significant bone loss. Patients may have a pre-operative CT scan and with the use of 3-D technology, they will have a customized surgical plan. Dr. Strickland or Dr. Babb will remove the diseased ball (humeral head) of the shoulder and replace it with a short metal (cobalt chrome) stem and metal tray. The socket (glenoid) of the shoulder is carefully prepared and replaced with a metal (cobalt chrome) socket and ball component. A plastic (polyethylene) liner is then impacted into the metal tray on the humerus side. The procedure takes about 75 minutes and most patients stay in the hospital for one night; however, some reverse total shoulder replacements can be performed as an outpatient basis depending on medical conditions and insurance.
You can expect to be in an abduction sling and pillow brace for six weeks following surgery. After 6 weeks in the brace, you will also work with a physical therapist on range of motion and strengthening exercises which can be done in the Mid-America Orthopedics offices. You can find full physical therapy protocols here for Dr. Strickland and Dr. Babb.
QUESTIONS?
For questions regarding shoulder replacements or to schedule an appointment, contact us or call 316-630-9300.