Living with shoulder pain can make everyday activities feel like monumental tasks. For those in the San Francisco Bay Area who have already undergone shoulder replacement surgery, the return of pain and instability can be especially disheartening. At California Pacific Orthopaedics, we understand your frustration and are here to help. Our team of board-certified orthopedic surgeons specializes in complex revision shoulder reconstruction, offering a renewed sense of hope and a path back to an active, pain-free life.
This procedure, also known as a revision shoulder arthroplasty, is a highly specialized surgery designed to fix a failed shoulder replacement. If your initial shoulder replacement hasn’t provided the lasting relief you expected, you may be a candidate for this advanced procedure.
Why is Complex Revision Shoulder Reconstruction Performed?
A primary shoulder replacement is a successful procedure for many, but like any artificial joint, it can wear out or fail over time. When this happens, a revision surgery is necessary to alleviate pain, restore function, and improve your overall quality of life. Our San Francisco-based orthopedic specialists may recommend this procedure for several reasons:
- Loosening of the Implant: The artificial joint, or prosthesis, may become loose from the bone, causing pain and instability. This is one of the most common reasons for revision surgery.
- Instability and Dislocation: The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint, and if the components of the implant are not perfectly aligned or if the surrounding tissues are weak, the shoulder can dislocate.
- Infection: Though rare, an infection can develop around the implant, leading to pain, swelling, and the need for a revision.
- Fracture: A fall or other trauma can cause the bone around the implant to break, necessitating a revision.
- Wear and Tear: Over time, the plastic components of the implant can wear down, leading to pain and decreased function.
- Rotator Cuff Failure: In some cases, the rotator cuff muscles, which are crucial for shoulder movement, can tear after a shoulder replacement, leading to the failure of the implant or pain and decreased function, necessitating a revision shoulder arthroplasty
What to Expect Before, During, and After Your Procedure
Undergoing any surgery can be a daunting experience, but at California Pacific Orthopaedics, we are committed to providing you with the information and support you need every step of the way. Here’s what you can expect:
Before the Procedure
Before your surgery, you will have a comprehensive evaluation with one of our top orthopedic surgeons in San Francisco. This will include:
- A thorough medical history and physical examination: Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms, your previous shoulder surgery, and your overall health.
- Advanced imaging studies: X-rays, CT scans, and/or MRIs will be used to get a detailed look at your shoulder joint and the existing implant.
- Lab tests: Blood tests may be ordered to check for infection.
Once your surgeon has all the necessary information, they will discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with you and answer any questions you may have. You will also receive instructions on how to prepare for your surgery, including which medications to stop taking and when to stop eating and drinking.
During the Procedure
Complex revision shoulder reconstruction is a more intricate and lengthy procedure than a primary shoulder replacement. It is performed under a combination of regional anesthesia (a nerve block to numb the shoulder and arm) and general anesthesia, so you will be asleep and comfortable throughout the surgery. The basic steps of the procedure are as follows:
- Incision: Your surgeon will make an incision on the front of your shoulder, often using the same incision from your previous surgery.
- Removal of the old implant: The old, failed implant will be carefully removed.
- Preparation of the bone: The bone surfaces will be prepared to receive the new implant. In some cases, a bone graft may be necessary to rebuild bone that has been lost.
- Implantation of the new prosthesis: The new, specialized revision implant will be placed.
- Closure: The incision will be closed with stitches or staples.
After the Procedure
Your recovery from complex revision shoulder reconstruction will be a gradual process, but our team will be there to support you every step of the way. Here’s what you can expect:
- Hospital stay: Many of our patients stay overnight in the hospital while others go home the same day due to the long acting nerve block that provides temporary pain relief.
- Pain management: You will be given medication to help control your pain.
- Immobilization: You will need to wear a sling for several weeks to protect your shoulder as it heals.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy is a crucial part of your recovery. You will work with a physical therapist to regain your strength, range of motion, and function.
- Follow-up appointments: You will have regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress.
Your Partner in Health in the San Francisco Bay Area
At California Pacific Orthopaedics, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the highest quality of care. Our team of experienced orthopedic surgeons has the expertise and skill to perform even the most complex revision shoulder reconstructions. If you are living with a failed shoulder replacement, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists. We are here to help you get back to the life you love, free from shoulder pain.
