Shoulder Replacement Surgery
1 – 2 Hours
General or Regional Anesthesia
Several Months
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Overview
Shoulder replacement surgery is a surgical procedure in which the damaged bone and cartilage in the shoulder joint are replaced with an artificial joint made of metal and plastic. It is performed in cases of advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, shoulder fractures, or rotator cuff tears that cause severe shoulder pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Shoulder replacement surgery aims to reduce pain, increase mobility, and improve quality of life.
Procedure Details
- Procedure: Shoulder Replacement Surgery (Shoulder Arthroplasty)
- Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia or regional anesthesia
- Location: Atlas University Hospital – Istanbul
- Possible Side Effects: Infection, bleeding, nerve damage, loosening or dislocation of the prosthesis, frozen shoulder (limited movement).
- Recovery Time: Hospital stay is usually 1-3 days. Full recovery may take several weeks to several months.
- Expected Outcomes: Reduced shoulder pain, increased mobility, easier performance of daily activities, improved quality of life.
Daily Plan
- Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul, transfer to the hospital, consultation, and tests.
- Day 2: Surgery, hospital stay.
- Day 3: Post-operative check-up, start physical therapy, discharge from the hospital and settle into the hotel.
- Day 4-9: Rest at the hotel, continue with physical therapy sessions (at a center affiliated with the hotel or at the hospital).
- Day 10: Doctor check-up, dressing change, flight suitability assessment.
- Day 14: Return to your country.
Post-Operative Care
- Use medications regularly as recommended by your doctor.
- Follow your physical therapy program and do your exercises regularly.
- Use the arm sling for the duration recommended by your doctor.
- Keep your arm elevated and apply ice to reduce swelling.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions and schedule a follow-up appointment with a local orthopedic surgeon after returning to your country.
FAQ
- Q: Is shoulder replacement surgery painful?
- A: Post-operative pain is expected, but it can be managed with pain medications.
- Q: How long will I need physical therapy after surgery?
- A: The duration of physical therapy varies from person to person, but it usually lasts a few weeks to a few months.
- Q: What are the risks of shoulder replacement surgery?
- A: There are risks such as infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and loosening or dislocation of the prosthesis. Your doctor will explain the risks in detail.
- Q: How long does a shoulder replacement last?
- A: The lifespan of a shoulder replacement is usually 10-15 years. However, this may vary depending on the patient’s activity level, age, and overall health.
- Q: Who is suitable for shoulder replacement surgery?
- A: It may be suitable for people with conditions that cause severe damage to the shoulder joint, such as advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, shoulder fractures, or rotator cuff tears, and who do not benefit from other treatment methods. Your doctor will evaluate your condition and determine if surgery is right for you.