Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement

When conventional total shoulder replacement isn’t an option, reverse total shoulder replacement can provide relief from shoulder arthritis.

During a conventional shoulder replacement, a plastic “cup” is placed into the shoulder socket and a metal “ball” is attached to the top of the upper arm bone. With reverse total shoulder replacement, the metal ball and socket are switched. The plastic cup is attached to the upper end of the arm bone and the ball is attached to the socket.

If shoulder pain is keeping you from enjoying an active lifestyle, speak with an orthopaedic provider at UPMC. Our skilled surgeons perform reverse total shoulder replacement in Williamsport and Wellsboro, PA.

Are You a Candidate for Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement?

You might be eligible for reverse total shoulder replacement if you have large rotator cuff tears along with a complex form of shoulder arthritis called “cuff tear arthropathy.” Your doctor may recommend a reverse replacement procedure in order to minimize pain and increase range of motion that normally would be limited with conventional shoulder replacement surgery.

Reverse total shoulder replacement may be helpful if you have:

• Severe shoulder pain and difficulty moving your arm away from your side or up over your head
• A prior shoulder replacement that was not successful
• A completely torn rotator cuff that can’t be repaired
• Cuff tear arthropathy
• Tried other treatments, including medications, rest, cortisone injections and physical therapy without success

What to Expect

This procedure will be performed in a Susquehanna Health hospital setting and typically takes about two hours. Your surgeon will make an incision on the front or top of your shoulder, then remove any damaged bone fragments and place a new, artificial device to restore proper function to your shoulder.

Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement Recovery

Once your surgery is complete, you’ll likely need to stay in the hospital for two to three days, depending on your age and overall health. When you’re able to go back home, your arm will be in a sling to keep it stable as it heals. Your surgeon may give you special instructions for gentle exercises you can perform to increase endurance and range of motion.

Physical therapy will help strengthen and improve flexibility in your shoulder. You should be able to perform normal everyday activities like eating, dressing and grooming within a few weeks after your procedure.

UPMC Orthopaedics offers comprehensive shoulder care, including reverse shoulder replacement in Williamsport and Wellsboro, PA.