Revision shoulder replacement surgery is a procedure aimed at addressing a failed shoulder replacement. Learn about the reasons why you may need a revision, the symptoms indicating the need for such a procedure, and who qualifies for the procedure.
Dr. Wame Waggenspack is an expert orthopedic shoulder and elbow surgeon in Houston, Texas. Feel free to book a visit with Dr. Waggenspack to see how we can provide you with a personalized assessment and advanced surgical solutions tailored to your individual needs.
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Revision shoulder replacement is a procedure used to replace an existing prosthesis in the shoulder. Most shoulder replacements are successful, however not all patients get the desired results. And in some cases, the prosthesis fails. The procedure is also known as revision shoulder arthroplasty.
A revision shoulder joint replacement is done when the original shoulder replacement fails. Although rare, a shoulder replacement may fail because of implant loosening, infection, dislocation, or wear. Also, bone spurs or scar tissue can interfere with an existing prosthesis.
If your shoulder replacement starts to fail, you will experience symptoms similar to those you had before your replacement surgery. Symptoms indicating the need for a revision procedure include the following:
If you have had a previous shoulder replacement and are experiencing the symptoms above, you could be a candidate for revision shoulder replacement surgery. You must also be in good health to undergo surgery.
Before surgery, Dr. Waggenspack will review your medical history. He will also perform a physical examination to determine the cause of your symptoms and why you may need revision surgery. Dr. Waggenspack may also order imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans to help him see what is going on inside your shoulder.
All these diagnostic tests will help Dr. Waggenspack determine why the previous shoulder replacement failed. He will then be able to determine the best revision surgery.
During revision shoulder replacement, our expert shoulder surgeon will first repair any soft tissues and bone and replace the prior prosthesis. This may involve the use of a bone graft. He may also repair a damaged rotator cuff.
After repairing these problems, Dr. Waggenspack may remove and replace all or part of your shoulder prosthesis. If you have an infection, he typically removes the entire joint replacement and treats the infection before giving you a new shoulder prosthesis.
The standard procedure for revising shoulder replacement typically involves the following steps:
Most shoulder surgery patients can go home the same day as their surgery; however, sometimes after revision surgery, an overnight stay is possible. During the initial phase of recovery, you will need to keep your arm in a sling to keep the pressure off your shoulder joint.
Exercises will be introduced slowly. Initially, these will help you to maintain your range of motion. Later, you will include exercises to restore shoulder strength. It may take longer to recover from revision surgery than your original procedure.
Are you ready to take the next step toward regaining optimal shoulder function? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Wame Waggenspack today and embark on your journey towards renewed shoulder health and mobility.
Our office in Houston, TX, can provide you with all the information you need concerning shoulder replacement revision surgery. Contact us today!
Medically reviewed by Dr. Wame Waggenspack
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