Duration of the operation | Inverse shoulder prosthesis

Duration of the operation

The duration of the operation when using an inverse shoulder prosthesis is not always the same. It depends, among other things, on the extent of the damage to the shoulder joint and the patient’s anatomy. On average, one to two hours of surgery should be expected. The form of anaesthesia suitable for this time is general anaesthesia, but partial anaesthesia (regional anaesthesia, in which only the shoulder and arm are anaesthetized) is also possible and safe.

ComplicationsRisks

When using an inverse shoulder prosthesis, the same risks apply as for shoulder prostheses in general: During the operation: After the operation: Other general but rare risks: In addition, the inverse shoulder prosthesis, like any other artificial joint, can become loose after a few years. In addition, the shoulder prosthesis, like the previous natural joint, can also dislocate. The prosthesis can break out as a result of falling onto the shoulder, especially in older patients.

  • Vascular and nerve injuries
  • Low risk of injury to surrounding structures in the surgical field (e.g. bone fractures)
  • Post-bleeding and wound healing disorders
  • Slipping of the prosthesis (luxation)
  • Loosening of the prosthesis
  • Infection
  • Thrombosis
  • Embolism
  • Nerve damage

How long does a shoulder prosthesis last?

The service life of a shoulder prosthesis cannot be given in general terms, as it depends on the prosthesis model and prosthesis material on the one hand, and on the degree of damage to the shoulder joint itself on the other. On average, however, it can be assumed that the prosthesis material will last 10 years or more. This also means that the use of a prosthesis – if medically justifiable – should be delayed as long as possible to avoid having to change the material again or even several times in repeated surgical procedures.

Advantages

The advantages of an inverse shoulder prosthesis are

  • The very good therapy option for severely diseased shoulder joints.
  • Both a worn shoulder joint (arthrosis) and a non-functional rotator cuff can be treated in one operation
  • Existing pain can often be well contained by the operation
  • Forward guidance of the arm is usually well restored
  • In addition, in the case of a massive comminuted fracture of the humeral head, no initial screwing, plating or nailing is necessary