Skip to content

Shoulder joint replacement

Introduction to shoulder joint replacement

Shoulder joint replacement is a surgical procedure in which the damaged shoulder joint is replaced with an artificial prosthesis. replaced by an artificial prosthesis is performed. This operation is mainly used for severe osteoarthritis, chronic pain or irreparable joint damage recommended after trauma.

In Vienna modern surgical techniques and high-quality prosthetic materials are available, which ensure long-term pain relief and optimum functionality of the shoulder. and optimal shoulder functionality.

When is a shoulder joint replacement necessary?

A shoulder joint replacement is an option if the patient suffers from the following problems:

  • Persistent pain that does not respond to conservative treatments (physiotherapy, medication).
  • Severe osteoarthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis).
  • Rotator cuff arthropathy, in which a torn rotator cuff severely impairs the joint.
  • Complex fractures of the shoulder joint that cannot be stabilized conservatively.
  • Restricted mobility and function of the shoulder, which severely impairs everyday life.

If non-surgical treatments do not bring sufficient improvementan orthopaedic consultation can clarify whether a shoulder joint replacement is the best solution.

Are you looking for a shoulder joint replacement?
Contact me

Different types of prostheses and their advantages

There are different types of prosthesiswhich are used depending on the clinical picture and individual needs of the patient.

Total shoulder joint replacement

In the total shoulder joint replacement both the humeral head (humeral head) as well as the joint socket (glenoid) replaced by artificial components. This method is particularly suitable for Patients with osteoarthritis and an intact rotator cuff.

Advantages

✔ Restoration of shoulder function and the range of motion
✔ Long-term durability thanks to modern prosthesis materials

Reverse shoulder joint replacement

In the reverse shoulder joint replacement the normal anatomy is changed: The ball is placed on the shoulder blade and the socket to the humeral head. This method is particularly suitable for Patients with severe rotator cuff injuries.

Advantages

✔ Stable shoulder functioneven in the absence of a rotator cuff
✔ Significant reduction in pain and improvement in mobility

Partial shoulder joint replacement

The hemiarthroplasty replaces only the humeral headwhile the joint socket remains intact. This method is often used for Fractures appliedwhere the joint socket remains intact.

Advantages

✔ Less invasive than a complete replacement
✔ Suitable for younger patients with limited joint damage

Surgical procedure and rehabilitation

Preoperative preparation

  • Medical examinations (X-ray, MRI) to assess the joint.
  • Discussion of prosthesis options and realistic surgical expectations.
  • Physiotherapy before the operation to strengthen the muscles.

Surgical intervention

  • General anesthesia or regional anesthesia
  • Removal of the damaged joint components and insertion of the prosthesis
  • Fixing the new joint components for stable movement
  • Operation duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Postoperative care and rehabilitation

  • Pain therapy with medication
  • Physiotherapy begins a few days after the operation to restore mobility
  • Full recovery takes approx. 3-6 months, depending on individual healing

Advantages of a shoulder prosthesis

✔ Pain reduction – Most patients report significant pain relief.
✔ Better mobility – A well-functioning prosthesis significantly improves shoulder function.
✔ Long-term durability – Modern materials ensure a service life of 15-20 years or longer.
✔ Improved quality of life – Patients can once again perform everyday activities without pain.

Are you looking for a shoulder joint replacement?
Contact me

Who is a suitable candidate?

Suitable candidates for a shoulder prosthesis are patients with:

  • Chronic shoulder pain and limited function despite conservative therapy.
  • Advanced osteoarthritis that leads to severe restriction of movement.
  • Severe rotator cuff damage that significantly impairs shoulder function.
  • Complex fractures that would not heal without surgery.

An orthopaedic consultation helps to determine the best option for each individual patient.

Success rates and case studies

Studies show that shoulder joint replacement has a high success rate has a high success rate:

  • Over 90 % of patients report significant pain relief.
  • Modern prostheses last 15-20 years or longer.
  • Most patients achieve a significant improvement in mobility and function.

Long-term studies confirm that a successful joint replacement significantly significantly improves quality of life

Frequently asked questions

Modern prostheses can last 15-20 years or longer depending on activity and state of health of the patient.

Most patients achieve a significant improvementbut the final result depends on rehabilitation and individual healing depends.

The first healing phase lasts 6-8 weeksbut full recovery can take up to 6 months can take up to 6 months.

Possible risks are infections, loosening or prosthesis wearbut these are minimized by modern surgical techniques.

I specialize in shoulder joint replacement and use the most modern prostheses and surgical methods methods.

Contact for further information

For further information or to make an appointmentplease visit our contact page or call me directly.

The following languages are spoken in my ordination:

German, English, French, Russian, Slovak, Czech

My ordination in 1190 Vienna
Facebook

Powered by DAM Webdesign