Shoulder and Elbow Replacement in Ahmedabad
What Is Shoulder or Elbow Replacement?
Shoulder or elbow replacement is surgery that replaces a badly damaged joint in the arm with an artificial one. It is done to relieve pain and help you use your arm for daily tasks when arthritis, a fracture or a large rotator cuff tear has damaged the joint.
Shoulder Replacement
When it is needed
- Arthritis of the shoulder joint
- Serious fractures of the upper arm bone near the shoulder
- Loss of blood supply to the top of the arm bone
- Large, long-standing rotator cuff tears with joint damage, called cuff tear arthropathy
- Pain at night and loss of movement that do not improve with treatment
Types of shoulder replacement
- Total shoulder replacement. Both the ball and the socket are replaced. It suits patients with healthy rotator cuff muscles.
- Hemiarthroplasty. Only the ball is replaced, often after a fracture.
- Reverse shoulder replacement. The ball and socket are switched. It suits patients whose rotator cuff is torn and cannot lift the arm.
Training
In July 2017, Dr. Patel trained for a month in Seoul, South Korea, under Dr. Yang Su Kim, learning advanced shoulder replacement techniques.
Recovery after shoulder replacement
| Time | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1 to 2 | Arm in a sling, gentle finger and elbow movement |
| Week 1 to 6 | Sling, gentle movement guided by a physiotherapist |
| Week 6 to 12 | Slowly begin lifting and using the arm for light tasks |
| 3 to 6 months | Strength grows and pain reduces further |
| Up to 12 months | Best results are seen |
Driving is usually possible around 6 to 8 weeks, but this varies. Physiotherapy is very important for a good result.
Elbow Replacement
When it is needed
- Severe rheumatoid arthritis of the elbow
- Broken elbow bones that cannot be repaired, especially in older adults
- Arthritis after an old injury
Elbow replacement is less common than knee or hip replacement. It is done to relieve pain and allow daily activities like eating, dressing and personal care.
After surgery
You keep the arm protected for some weeks. After healing, most surgeons advise a lifelong limit on heavy lifting to protect the implant. Dr. Patel will give you a weight limit that suits you.
Risks of Shoulder and Elbow Replacement
- Infection
- Stiffness or limited movement
- Loosening or wear of the implant
- Dislocation of the joint
- Nerve or blood vessel injury, which is uncommon
- Risks linked to anaesthesia
Options Before Replacement
Physiotherapy, pain medicine, injections and keyhole surgery can help some shoulder and elbow problems. Dr. Patel will tell you if these can help you before advising replacement.
Why Choose Dr. Ruchir Patel
- Trained in shoulder replacement in Seoul, South Korea under Dr. Yang Su Kim
- Assisted in shoulder and elbow replacements during more than 1,000 joint replacements at Shah Hospital
- Clear advice on which type of replacement suits you
Shoulder and Elbow Replacement Cost
The cost depends on the type of replacement, the implant, the hospital stay and the tests you need. A written estimate is given after consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is shoulder replacement needed?
When shoulder pain and stiffness from arthritis, a fracture or a large rotator cuff tear limit daily life and other treatment has not helped.
What is reverse shoulder replacement?
It is a type of shoulder replacement where the ball and socket are switched so other shoulder muscles can lift the arm. It is used when the rotator cuff is badly torn.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients use a sling for about 4 to 6 weeks and continue to improve for up to a year.
How long does a shoulder replacement last?
Many last 10 to 15 years or more, depending on the patient and implant.
Can I lift weights after elbow replacement?
Heavy lifting is usually limited for life to protect the implant. Your surgeon will give you a safe weight limit.