Shoulder hemiarthroplasty, also known as a partial shoulder replacement, is a procedure that involves replacing the humerus with an artificial implant while the other half of the shoulder, the glenoid, is left intact. It is not the most common procedure, as it’s more standard to perform a total shoulder replacement, but for the right patient a hemiarthroplasty can be the perfect solution to their shoulder pain. Below, we take a closer look at when a shoulder hemiarthroplasty may be indicated and how the procedure is completed.
When Is A Shoulder Hemiarthroplasty Appropriate?
A shoulder hemiarthroplasty is generally appropriate for two types of patients – those who are suffering from shoulder osteoarthritis and those who have suffered a significant shoulder fracture. Even in cases where osteoarthritis is present, a shoulder hemiarthroplasty may not be the best course of action. A partial shoulder replacement will only be appropriate for patients who are still suffering from severe pain and discomfort despite pursuing non-operative treatments like physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications. And even if they meet this classification, their arthritis must only affect the humeral head and not the glenoid bone, otherwise a total shoulder replacement will likely be indicated.
Partial shoulder replacement may also be ordered for patients who suffer extreme trauma to the shoulder that results in a complex fracture. Patients with three- or four-part humeral fractures may find best long-term recovery results with the assistance of a shoulder hemiarthroplasty operation.
The Types Of Shoulder Hemiarthroplasty
Partial shoulder replacement operations can generally be performed in one of two ways. Here’s a closer look at each.
- Stemmed Hemiarthroplasty – In a stemmed hemiarthroplasty, the surgeon replaces the head of the humerus with a metal ball and stem. This is pursued when the humeral head is severely arthritic or fractured, but the socket itself is healthy. This type of hemiarthroplasty is also considered if the patient shows signs of a significant rotator cuff tear, which could compromise the integrity of a total shoulder replacement.
- Resurfacing Hemiarthroplasty – During a resurfacing hemiarthroplasty, the surgeon replaces the joint surface of the humeral head with a cap-like prosthesis and no stem. This type of procedure helps to preserve healthy bone and avoid the potential for component wear and loosening that can occur over time with a total shoulder replacement.
Both of these procedures have high rates of success, but it also takes plenty of work on behalf of the patient. Most patients wear a sling for 3-4 weeks to help protect the shoulder joint, but it’s not long after surgery that a patient will begin some gentle physical therapy exercises. Early physical therapy intervention is key for making the strongest recovery after partial shoulder replacement, and your doctor and physical therapist can adjust your schedule based on how well you’re progressing. In all, total rehabilitation time can take several months, but you’ll have follow-up appointments and physical therapy to ensure everything progresses as expected.
So if you are dealing with severe shoulder discomfort or are limited by range of motion restriction, reach out to Dr. Holloway to see what he can do for you. Whether it’s a conservative care routine or a partial or total shoulder replacement, he’ll be with you every step of the way until your shoulder is better. For more information or to set up an appointment, give his office a call today at (865) 410-7887.
