Reverse shoulder arthroplasty reverses the normal ball-and-socket orientation of the shoulder joint, allowing the deltoid muscle to power shoulder movement when the rotator cuff is no longer functional.
Indicated for patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears combined with arthritis, failed prior shoulder replacements, or complex fractures in older patients.
Performed under anesthesia, typically taking 2 to 3 hours. The prosthetic ball is placed on the socket side and the cup on the humeral side. A sling is worn postoperatively and therapy begins within days.
Risks include infection, nerve injury, implant loosening, dislocation, and notching of the scapula. Your surgeon will review all risks and expected outcomes.
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