The shoulder is one of the most complex joints in the body and is vulnerable to any number of injuries and conditions, from arthritis and dislocation to degenerative disease and tendon tears. Depending on your condition, your orthopedist may recommend more conservative treatments, like rest and physical therapy to help heal the area; if the damage is extensive or can’t be repaired by rest, time and therapy, he may recommend surgery. A few of the more common types of shoulder surgery are detailed below.
Arthroscopic SLAP Labral Repair
The labrum is a piece of cartilage that fits around the edges of the socket of the humeral head. The most common injury to the labrum is the SLAP – superior labral from anterior to posterior — tear. The SLAP tear covers a specific area, most often where both the front and back of the labrum attach to the bicep tendon. With tears that are caused by dislocation, the labrum will be reattached to the rim of the socket; larger tears may have to be smoothed out or trimmed before repair. In the most severe cases, the tear may require reattachment to the top of the socket.
Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
Surgery for damage to the rotator cuff is the most commonly performed of all shoulder procedures. Depending on the type of injury or damage, your orthopedist may remove the damaged tissue or bone spurs, suture the tendon to allow it to heal, and/or reattach the tendon to the bone using anchors or sutures.
Biceps Tendon Surgery
The bicep muscle is located on the front edge of the upper arm. A damaged or torn bicep is not only painful, it may set you out for the season. This surgery can be performed as a one-off or as part of rotator cuff repair if present then.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Your orthopedist may recommend shoulder replacement surgery – also known as shoulder arthroplasty — when the cartilage in your shoulder has worn to the point that the bones start to rub against each other, causing pain, swelling and inflammation. This procedure involves the removal of the damaged parts of the shoulder and replacing them with artificial joints and often is relied on as a last resort, after other viable options have been unsuccessful at alleviating the pain or increasing range of motion.
Reverse Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Reverse shoulder replacement is similar to shoulder replacement surgery, except the components of the artificial joint are placed in reverse. This procedure may be used for those who have experienced unsuccessful traditional shoulder replacement and can provide a mechanical advantage in that the reversal allows for greater stability when both the labrum and rotator cuff are severely damaged.
Total Shoulder Joint Replacement
Total shoulder replacement is recommended for those with severe deterioration, most commonly as a result of osteoarthritis. With total shoulder replacement, your surgeon will make an incision on the front of your shoulder joint, then replace the damaged head of the humerus and glenoid socket with prosthetic parts. Once recovered and after physical therapy, you should be able to regain full strength and range of motion.
Hand to Shoulder Care in Maryland
If you or someone you love is suffering from shoulder pain, why not get the best care in Maryland? With seven locations across Maryland, Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder is ready to work with you. Call us today at (410) 296-6232 or request an appointment online and shoulder pain no more.
