Doctors for Shoulder Replacement in Chennai

Surgical intervention for a damaged or diseased shoulder joint is known as shoulder replacement surgery. This medical procedure involves the use of an artificial joint to replace the affected area. The shoulder joint is an intricate structure, comprising various elements such as bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons that collaborate to provide an extensive range of motion. When any of these components get severely damaged, shoulder replacement surgery is recommended to restore the normal function of the shoulder joint.

There are several reasons why a patient may need shoulder replacement operation. These include joint arthritis, chronic pain in the shoulder joint, sports injuries, bursitis, tendonitis, and accidental damage. With advanced arthroscopic treatment available for shoulder replacement surgery in India, patients can expect excellent results and a speedy recovery. If you're experiencing shoulder pain or discomfort, it's best to consult an orthopedic surgeon who can evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for you.

Shoulder replacement surgery is a medical procedure utilized to substitute a damaged or diseased shoulder joint with an artificial one. The selection of the appropriate type of shoulder replacement operation is based on the patient's particular medical condition. Here are four primary categories of shoulder replacement surgery:

• Total Shoulder Replacement: This is the most frequent form of shoulder replacement surgery. During a total shoulder replacement, an artificial ball and socket joint replace the damaged or diseased joint. This procedure is typically recommended for patients with severe arthritis, rotator cuff tears, or those who have had a previous shoulder replacement surgery.
• Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement: This surgery is most often recommended for patients with severe shoulder damage. During a reverse shoulder replacement, the positions of the ball and socket joint are switched, allowing the deltoid muscle instead of the rotator cuff to control the shoulder's motion. This surgery is not recommended for patients with a healthy rotator cuff.
• Partial Shoulder Replacement: This type of surgery is recommended for patients with osteoarthritis or other degenerative conditions that affect only one part of the shoulder joint. In this type of surgery, only the ball section of the shoulder joint is replaced with an artificial component.
• Shoulder Resurfacing: This is a less invasive type of shoulder replacement operation that is recommended for patients with early-stage arthritis or a damaged joint surface. This procedure involves the placement of a cap over the existing ball section of the shoulder joint rather than completely replacing it. Shoulder resurfacing is typically performed on younger patients with less severe shoulder damage.

In case of persistent shoulder pain or discomfort, your doctor may recommend shoulder replacement surgery. Before the surgery, the orthopedic surgeon will conduct a thorough physical examination of the affected shoulder joint to assess the tenderness, range of motion, and swelling. Additionally, the doctor may ask about the symptoms, including the intensity of the pain while putting slight pressure with the fingertips on the affected area. To detect the root cause of the problem and to determine the best-suited technique for the shoulder joint, the orthopedic surgeon may recommend a few diagnostic tests:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI scan uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the soft tissues, bones, and joints. This test can help identify damage to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the shoulder joint. MRI is a non-invasive test and usually takes 30-60 minutes.
• X-ray: An X-ray is a simple diagnostic test that uses low doses of radiation to create images of the bones in the shoulder joint. This test can help detect fractures, arthritis, or other abnormalities in the bones. X-ray is a diagnostic test that does not involve any invasive procedures and typically only takes a few minutes to complete.
• Electromyography (EMG): Electromyography (EMG) is a medical examination that assesses the muscles and the nerves responsible for controlling them. During this test, small electrodes are positioned on the skin above the muscles under examination. The electrodes detect the electrical activity of the muscles, which the doctor then analyzes. EMG is a minimally invasive test and can provide valuable information about nerve and muscle function in the shoulder joint.

Shoulder replacement operation is an operation in which an artificial joint is used to replace a damaged shoulder joint. The surgery is conducted under general anesthesia and usually lasts between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the type of shoulder replacement surgery required.

Preparation in the Operation Theatre: Before the surgery, the patient will receive general anesthesia, and the surgeon will create an incision in the shoulder area to access the damaged joint. The surgeon will then remove the damaged parts of the joint and prepare the socket and humerus bone for the artificial implant.

• Exposure: To access the damaged joint, the surgeon will make an incision in the shoulder area during the procedure.
• Preparation: The surgeon will then remove the damaged parts of the joint and prepare the socket and humerus bone for the artificial implant.
• Implantation: The type of implant used will depend on the type of shoulder replacement surgery being performed. The surgeon will place the artificial implant into the socket and humerus bone.
• Closure: The surgeon will then close the incision with sutures or staples.
• Recovery and Discharge: After the surgery, the patient may have to stay in the hospital for 2-3 days, depending on the severity of the condition and if the patient is showing any irregular signs post-surgery. The surgeon will monitor the patient's progress and provide instructions on post-operative care, including exercises to help restore strength and mobility in the shoulder joint.

Shoulder replacement surgery is an effective treatment for patients suffering from chronic pain and limited mobility due to a damaged or degenerated shoulder joint. In Chennai, there are several benefits of undergoing shoulder replacement operation that patients can avail themselves of.

• Pain Relief: One of the main advantages of having shoulder replacement surgery is pain relief. The surgery replaces the damaged joint with an artificial one, which reduces the friction and pressure on the surrounding tissues and nerves, resulting in reduced pain.
• Improved Mobility: Shoulder replacement surgery restores the normal function of the shoulder joint, which results in improved mobility. After the surgery, patients can perform everyday activities without experiencing any pain or discomfort in the shoulder joint.
• Better Quality of Life: Shoulder replacement surgery can significantly enhance a patient's quality of life by decreasing pain, enhancing mobility, and enabling them to engage in everyday activities without any restrictions.
• Long-Lasting Results: Shoulder replacement surgery provides long-lasting results. The artificial joint is designed to last for several years, and with proper care, it can provide relief from pain and improve mobility for a long time.
• Experienced Surgeons: Chennai boasts several seasoned orthopedic surgeons who specialize in shoulder replacement surgery. These surgeons employ the latest techniques and technologies to achieve optimal results for their patients.

Like any other surgery, shoulder replacement surgery may also involve certain side effects that patients should be aware of. However, it is important to note that not all patients may experience these side effects, and some may experience them to a lesser extent. Some of the potential side effects of shoulder replacement surgery are:

• Pain and discomfort: Pain and discomfort are common after the surgery due to the incision made during the procedure. To alleviate discomfort following the surgery, the surgeon may prescribe pain medications.
• Infection: Complications that may arise after shoulder replacement surgery include infection. Patients may notice symptoms such as redness, chills, fever, or swelling at the surgical site.
• Blood clots: Following surgery, blood clots may develop in the legs' veins, causing discomfort, swelling, or redness in the leg. If left untreated, the blood clot may move to the lungs and result in pulmonary embolism, a potentially fatal illness.
• Damage to the surrounding nerves, blood vessels, or tissues: During the surgery, the surgeon may accidentally damage the surrounding nerves, blood vessels, or tissues, leading to weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arm.
• Dislocation or loosening of the implant: In some cases, the implant may become dislocated or loose, leading to pain and limited mobility in the arm.
• Limited range of motion: Despite the success of the surgery, the patient may experience a limited range of motion in the arm due to the scarring and stiffness that may develop after the surgery.
• Implant wear and tear: Over time, the implant may wear down, leading to pain and discomfort in the shoulder joint.
• Allergic reaction to the implant material: Rarely, some patients may develop an allergic reaction to the implant material used in the shoulder replacement surgery, leading to symptoms such as rash, hives, or difficulty breathing.

It can take several months to fully recover from shoulder replacement surgery. However, most patients start feeling a significant improvement in their shoulder joint within six weeks of the surgery. Here are some tips to help you recover after shoulder replacement surgery:

• Physical Therapy: Following shoulder replacement surgery, physical therapy is a crucial aspect of the healing process. The orthopedic surgeon will recommend a physical therapy plan customized for your needs. The exercises help to regain mobility, strengthen the muscles and reduce pain in the affected shoulder joint.
• Medications: In order to treat pain and avoid infection, your orthopedic surgeon may provide painkillers and antibiotics. It is essential to follow the prescription as advised by the surgeon.
• Rest: Rest is crucial for the recovery process. For many weeks following surgery, refrain from engaging in any vigorous exercise or using the afflicted arm for heavy lifting.
• Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice packs on the affected shoulder joint can help reduce swelling and pain. You might transition to heat therapy after a few days to enhance blood flow in the shoulder joint.
• Lifestyle Changes: Making a few lifestyle changes can speed up the recovery process. Eat a healthy and balanced diet, avoid smoking, and maintain a healthy weight.
• Follow-up Appointments: Attending follow-up sessions with your orthopedic physician is crucial to track your development and, as necessary, modify your treatment strategy.