Surgery is sometimes needed to treat shoulder conditions that do not improve with rest, physical therapy, and other non-invasive treatments. Learn about some of the common procedures and why they are needed.
Dr. Wame Waggenspack, in Houston, Texas, has a wealth of experience performing both minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery as well as open surgery requiring a traditional incision (cut in the skin). Contact our office today to book an appointment!
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There are several types of surgical procedures to treat shoulder conditions. Each procedure is aimed at addressing a specific condition affecting the shoulder joint.
These surgeries are designed to alleviate shoulder pain, restore function, and improve overall shoulder mobility. From fractures and chronic pain to degenerative conditions like arthritis, these interventions play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with shoulder issues.
Here are some of the common shoulder surgery procedures that Dr. Waggenspack performs:
Arthroscopic shoulder surgeries are minimally invasive surgeries that allow your orthopedic surgeon to assess and treat different conditions affecting the shoulder joint.
Common arthroscopic procedures include:
Total shoulder replacement is performed using an open incision. Dr. Waggenspack will replace the shoulder joint with a prosthesis made of metal and polyethylene (plastic). It is used to treat a shoulder joint that is damaged by arthritis.
Reverse shoulder replacement is a special type of shoulder replacement where the ball and socket are reversed. This procedure is used when there is damage to the rotator cuff or severe bony deformity preventing the use of a conventional replacement.
A fracture repair surgical procedure is used if the broken pieces of the bone move out of place. Dr. Waggenspack will realign the broken pieces and secure them with metal hardware.
You may need shoulder surgery if your injury or the damage to your shoulder is too severe to heal properly with non-surgical treatment options, such as rest, ice, physical therapy, and medication. The goal of shoulder surgery is to treat the damage to the joint so you can get relief from pain and regain function in your shoulder.
Not every shoulder injury or condition requires surgery, and in fact, most patients with shoulder problems can be treated successfully non-surgically. Dr. Waggenspack can help you decide whether or not surgery is the right option for you, and will always default to non-surgical treatment if appropriate for your condition.
To determine if surgery is necessary, Dr. Waggenspack will perform a complete evaluation of your shoulder condition. He will likely perform the following diagnostic methods:
Based on this information, Dr. Waggenspack determines which treatment options are best. If Dr. Waggenspack believes you would benefit from surgery, he will explain the procedure in detail and tell you why it’s necessary.
Shoulder surgery carries the same risks as any other type of surgical procedure. The risks of shoulder surgery, though uncommon, can include the following:
There may also be a specific risk associated with the surgical procedure. Dr. Waggenspack will thoroughly explain all associated risks and the possible complications of the surgery before performing these procedures.
The timeline for recovery from shoulder surgery is variable and specific to each procedure. Dr Waggenspack will discuss the expectations and recovery timeline in detail at your preoperative appointment.
Arthroscopic surgery patients and some open shoulder surgery patients are often able to go home the same day following surgery. Most open shoulder surgery patients, including replacements, stay in the hospital overnight and go home the next day. It is very uncommon to require more than one overnight stay in the hospital.
You will do physical therapy after surgery, starting after your first postoperative visit. This is an essential part of your recovery, crucial to regain your function.
If you have a shoulder injury or problem and would like to know your treatment options, book an appointment with Dr. Wame Waggenspack in Houston, TX. He will examine you and recommend the best treatment approach for your condition.
Get on the road to recovery and contact our office today! We look forward to giving you the relief and peace of mind you deserve.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Wame Waggenspack
Need expert elbow surgery in Houston, TX? Dr Waggenspack Orthopedics treats elbow injuries and conditions with personalized surgical and non-surgical solutions to restore strength, motion, and function.
Need expert shoulder surgery in Houston, TX? Dr Waggenspack Orthopedics offers advanced arthroscopic and open shoulder procedures, including rotator cuff repair, shoulder replacement, and fracture repair to restore function and relieve pain.
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Struggling with shoulder arthritis pain or stiffness? Dr Waggenspack Orthopedics in Houston, TX offers expert evaluation and treatment options, including injections and shoulder replacement, to relieve pain and improve mobility.
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