Most shoulder replacement surgeries are successful, but potential complications can arise. These complications typically occur when the surgery is not performed properly, or an individual is not healthy enough for the procedure. A small percentage of patients will require a second or revision surgery. However, total shoulder replacements are very common and you need not worry after consulting the best shoulder surgeons in Adelaide.
What Shoulder Replacement Surgery Entails
Common surgical procedures involve improving the function of a person’s shoulder and reconstructing the damaged tissue. Examples of common shoulder replacement surgeries include rotator cuff repairs, arthroscopic discectomies, and the reconstruction of the joint. The most commonly performed shoulder replacement procedure is total shoulder replacement (TJS). It is also the most common shoulder replacement procedure in which one shoulder is replaced with one artificial device. A total shoulder replacement is a process that involves making a total joint replacement. The surgery typically involves making an incision into the shoulder to remove the acromion process of the shoulder.
Risks and Complications
If a surgical screw does not end up in the correct place, it can cause problems. Heart problems, such as a heart attack, can occur. When surgical screws are misplaced, a potential complication is a hematoma, which is blood trapped under the skin. A 2011 study in BMJ found that hematomas occurred in 13% of people undergoing shoulder surgery, while 25% developed blood clots. Tendon injuries are common during surgery and can lead to complications. In cases of a tendon injury, a surgeon may have to cut through the tendon to put the shoulder back together. The severity of this complication varies based on how damaged the tendon is.
Post-Surgery Care
Only one-third of surgery patients end up with health complications. A safe and pain-free recovery is necessary. Most patients have their first post-op appointment after three weeks, and most will have another appointment four weeks after surgery. Patients should ask their shoulder surgeons in Adelaide how they plan to monitor them post-surgery. For example, are they prescribing medication? Is someone going to be watching to make sure that they follow the prescribed recovery schedule? Some patients may even require blood tests, X-rays, or checkups every three weeks after surgery.
Conclusion
Implants are known to work in 85-95 percent of cases. The remaining 15 percent will have the procedure changed to a revision or a substitution. Applying the risk calculator is a good place to start, though it’s worth remembering that it does not take into account the inherent risks of surgery, such as anesthesia, infection, or injury. Removing a healthy shoulder muscle isn’t always recommended. However, a number of studies suggest that it’s often the best option. If you are considering a shoulder replacement, talk to your doctor about your options and risks.
