Surgical treatment of shoulder arthrosis | Shoulder arthrosis (omarthrosis)

Surgical treatment of shoulder arthrosis

First of all, there is the possibility of a joint-preserving operation for the treatment of shoulder arthrosis. Tendons of the rotator cuff, muscles that secure the shoulder joint and whose tendons run through the joint, can be reconstructed. Bony protrusions can be abraded to allow more space in the joint.

In case of advanced wear and tear, a complete joint replacement can be performed. There are various options with different advantages and disadvantages. A distinction is made between joint prostheses, where only one joint partner is replaced, and joint replacement, which completely replaces the joint.

A distinction is made here between shoulder prostheses in which the joint partners act together as originally, and inverse shoulder prostheses. With inverse shoulder prostheses, the head of the shoulder on the upper arm becomes the socket, while the socket on the shoulder blade becomes the joint head. The different types of prosthesis have advantages and disadvantages which should be individually adapted to the patient and his or her needs.

How long does the surgical procedure take?

It is difficult to make a general statement about the duration of the procedure.A simple arthroscopy is faster than a joint replacement. An arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure in which special devices for diagnosis and treatment can be used through small incisions. An operation in which the shoulder joint is replaced by artificial joint parts can take several hours.

The length of follow-up treatment also depends on the intervention. After arthroscopy, gentle mobilization is possible after a few days of rest. After the use of a shoulder prosthesis, long-term relief may be indicated.

How long do you have to stay in hospital after the surgery?

The stay in hospital after the surgery depends on the type of surgery. Some arthroscopic procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis, so that the patient can go home immediately after the procedure. After a major operation, a hospital stay of normally up to 12 days is planned. In the event of complications, this may of course be extended. During the stay in hospital, physiotherapeutic follow-up treatment begins, which is then continued on an outpatient basis.