Shoulder hemiarthroplasty, also called partial shoulder replacement is a surgical procedure during which the upper bone in the arm (humerus) is replaced with a prosthetic metal implant, whereas the other half of the shoulder joint (glenoid or socket) is left intact. This surgical procedure is indicated in severe, persistent conditions of shoulder osteoarthritis in which the only the humeral head or ball of the joint is damaged. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition in which the cartilage that allows smooth movement in the joints wears away causing the adjacent bone to rub against each other resulting in pain and stiffness. In such conditions, replacement of the damaged portion of the humerus will reduce the friction as bone ends can no longer come in contact and thus relieve pain.
Surgery remains as a sole treatment option when all possible conservative means of treatment such as rest, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy have been ineffective in resolving your symptoms. While the procedure may relieve your pain and other symptoms, there may also be associated risks and complications as with any major surgery. Potential risks and complications that may occur following shoulder hemiarthroplasty include infection, instability, fractures of the humerus or scapula, shoulder stiffness, damage to the blood vessels and nerves.
Click on the topics below to find out more from the orthopaedic connection website of American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
- The Shoulder
- Arthritis of the Shoulder
- Broken Collarbone
- Dislocated Shoulder
- Fracture of the shoulder blade (scapula)
- Frozen Shoulder
- Rotator Cuff Tears
- Separated Shoulder
- Shoulder Impingement (Bursitis, Tendinitis)
- Shoulder Joint Replacement
- Shoulder Joint Tear (Glenoid Labrum Tear)
- Thoracic outlet syndrome
- Shoulder Arthroscopy
