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What is a Partial Shoulder Replacement?

Conditions such as arthritis produce pain in the joints of the body. The shoulder is one joint that may be affected by this type of condition. A partial shoulder replacement may be considered as an alternative to a total shoulder replacement.

  1. Identification

    • A partial shoulder replacement consists of replacing only the ball of the shoulder joint. This removes the need for a plastic socket, requires the removal of less bone and has a smaller incision than a total shoulder replacement.

    Benefits

    • The benefits of this type of surgery is a less involved surgery, so the recovery time is shorter than with a traditional total shoulder replacement. This means less pain and a return to normal activities more quickly.

    Causes

    • A partial shoulder replacement may be necessary if the patient suffers from arthritis or has suffered a traumatic injury to the shoulder. Those who play sports such as tennis can place a great deal of wear and tear on the shoulder joint. Overuse injuries can cause osteoarthritis to develop over time.

    Potential

    • One procedure that is used during a partial shoulder replacement is a partial replacement with tissue regeneration. The surgeon resurfaces the joint of the shoulder, replacing the worn cartilage with new materials that promote healing within the joint.

    Effects

    • The recovery time with a partial shoulder replacement is much shorter than with a total shoulder replacement. The surgery should provide a pain-free range of motion, and most people return to their previous activity level within nine months.

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