Are You a Candidate for Total Shoulder Replacement? Here's All You Need to Know

A majority of orthopaedic patients complain about shoulder injuries or deformities. The non-surgical treatment is effective if your shoulder arthritis or other related problems are at an initial stage. When the first course of treatment fails to provide any relief to the patient, the doctor might recommend total shoulder replacement. There are, however, a few criteria based on which it is determined if a patient needs to undergo the surgery. If you face severe shoulder-related problems and are planning to undergo a total or partial shoulder replacement surgery, read this post to learn about four factors that determine if you are right candidate to go under the knife.

1. Age and Weight

Patients aged around 85 whose general health condition is not good can undergo shoulder replacement surgery. Similarly, there is no weight limit for people who can have the surgery. Obesity and higher age, however, increase the chances of post-surgical complications such as infection. 

2. Nicotine Use

Patients who consume tobacco products or smoke have higher complication rates after the surgery. Though, they can lower the post-surgical risks by cutting back on use of tobacco or quitting prior to surgery. The total shoulder replacement surgery involves cutting and repairing of the rotator cuff tendon, and nicotine could inhibit healing after the rotator cuff repair.

3. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis might make bones brittle and less capable to provide proper support to the body. Moderate osteoporosis, on the other hand, can simply affect that how a doctor plans for the surgery. For instance -

• The surgeon might decide to use bone cement to fix the new socket to natural bone, instead of opting for cementing fixation method
• The surgeon may ask a patient to improve bone density pre and post surgery to increase the lifespan of shoulder replacement

4. Infections

Infection could be a serious complication, so a patient might need to consider non-surgical treatment options or postpone surgery, in case of:

• Predisposition to infection
• Systemic infection
• Skin problems that increase the chances of infection

5. Wrapping Up

The above-mentioned factors could help you in determining if you are eligible for total shoulder replacement surgery or not. If yes, there are reputable orthopedic centers in Plano who have a team of experienced doctors to perform shoulder joint replacement surgery. So, wait no more, consult an orthopedician today and take a step towards a less painful and more active lifestyle.