Shoulder-Guidebook-V1

Planning Ahead Before Surgery

Reverse Shoulder Replacement A reverse shoulder replacement is indicated for selected shoulder problems that cannot be treated with conventional shoulder replacement; this procedure has been done in the United States since 2004 and longer in Europe. This procedure has different indications and risks. The primary indication id pain, in the absence of a functioning rotator cuff and subsequent weakness. Because of this weakness, the orientation of the ball and socket are reversed to allow improved strength. This procedure is becoming increasingly popular because it is the main alternative for problems that cannot be solved with a conventional shoulder replacement. What are the risks of reverse shoulder replacement? In addition to the risks for a conventional shoulder replacement listed previously, reverse shoulder replacement may have a higher risk of infection and dislocation (ball coming out of the socket). There is usually some loss of motion after reverse shoulder replacement compared to a conventional shoulder. This procedure is typically reserved for elderly or more sedentary patients.

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