Procedure Description

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Total shoulder replacement, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in the shoulder joint. This procedure is commonly recommended for patients suffering from severe arthritis, traumatic injuries, or conditions that severely limit mobility and cause chronic pain. The procedure involves replacing the damaged parts of the shoulder with artificial components, known as prosthetics, to improve movement and alleviate discomfort.

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The shoulder joint, being one of the most flexible joints in the body, consists of the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone). The humeral head, which is the ball of the joint, moves within the glenoid, a socket in the scapula, allowing for a wide range of motion. When this joint becomes damaged due to arthritis or injury, the smooth cartilage that covers the bones wears down, causing pain and stiffness. During a total shoulder replacement, the damaged humeral head is replaced with a metal ball, and the glenoid is resurfaced with a plastic component to restore smooth movement.

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There are two primary types of total shoulder replacement surgeries: anatomic and reverse. In an anatomic shoulder replacement, the ball-and-socket anatomy of the joint is restored with artificial parts that mimic the natural anatomy. In a reverse total shoulder replacement, the ball and socket positions are reversed, with the ball being placed on the shoulder blade and the socket on the arm bone. This type of surgery is typically recommended for patients with rotator cuff tears, where traditional repair methods are not effective.

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Procedure Duration

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Total shoulder replacement surgery typically takes around two to three hours, depending on the complexity of the case and the specific type of replacement being performed. However, the entire process of undergoing the procedure, from pre-operative preparation to post-operative recovery, involves several stages.

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Pre-operative phase: Before the surgery, patients undergo thorough medical evaluations, including imaging studies such as X-rays or MRIs to assess the damage. The surgeon will review the patient's medical history and medications to ensure that they are fit for the procedure. Pre-surgical preparation might also involve physical therapy exercises to strengthen the shoulder muscles.

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Surgical phase: The actual surgery starts with the administration of general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision, usually around the front of the shoulder, to access the joint. The damaged portions of the humeral head and glenoid are removed, and the prosthetic components are inserted. The surgeon then carefully tests the joint to ensure proper movement before closing the incision with sutures.

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Recovery phase: After the surgery, patients are typically required to stay in the hospital for one to three days for monitoring. Initial recovery involves wearing a sling to keep the shoulder immobilized and to support the healing process. Physical therapy usually begins shortly after surgery to promote movement, prevent stiffness, and gradually restore function. Full recovery can take several months, with most patients returning to their daily activities within three to six months, depending on their progress.

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Benefits

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• Pain relief: The procedure significantly reduces or eliminates shoulder pain caused by arthritis or injury.

• Improved mobility: Restores the range of motion and function of the shoulder joint, allowing patients to perform daily tasks.

• Increased strength: Patients often regain strength in the shoulder and arm as they recover.

• Long-lasting results: Modern prosthetics are durable, providing long-term relief and functional improvement.

• Enhanced quality of life: Patients can return to activities they enjoy without being limited by shoulder pain or dysfunction.

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Potential Destinations

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When considering total shoulder replacement surgery abroad, several destinations stand out for their advanced medical facilities and high standards of care. Here are five destinations known for this procedure:

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• Thailand
  Thailand is renowned for its medical tourism industry, offering state-of-the-art orthopedic facilities and skilled surgeons. The country combines affordability with high-quality healthcare, making it a top destination for total shoulder replacement surgery.

• Turkey
  Turkey has rapidly gained a reputation for advanced orthopedic surgeries, including shoulder replacements. With modern hospitals and highly trained surgeons, patients can expect excellent care at competitive prices.

• India
  India offers a blend of world-class medical expertise and affordability, particularly in major cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore. Many hospitals in India are equipped with the latest technology for joint replacement procedures.

• Mexico
  For patients traveling from North America, Mexico offers proximity and cost-effective shoulder replacement options. With top-tier medical facilities and experienced surgeons, it has become a popular destination for orthopedic care.

• Spain
  Spain is known for its high healthcare standards and modern facilities, particularly in major cities like Barcelona and Madrid. The country's healthcare system offers patients the latest advancements in joint replacement surgery, including shoulder arthroplasty.

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Risks & Considerations

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• Infection: Like any surgery, there is a risk of infection at the incision site or within the joint, though this is rare with proper care.

• Prosthetic wear: Over time, the artificial components may wear down, requiring revision surgery.

• Nerve damage: The proximity of nerves around the shoulder joint presents a risk of nerve injury during surgery, though this is uncommon.

• Blood clots: There is a risk of developing blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) after surgery, which can be mitigated with medication and early mobilization.

• Stiffness or instability: In some cases, patients may experience stiffness or instability in the shoulder joint, which may require additional physical therapy or treatment.

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How to Choose the Right Doctor and Hospital

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Choosing the right doctor and hospital for total shoulder replacement is critical for ensuring a successful outcome. Patients should consider several factors when making this decision:

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First, look for a surgeon with extensive experience in shoulder replacement surgeries. This is especially important if the procedure involves complex cases like reverse shoulder arthroplasty. The surgeon’s expertise can be verified through credentials, certifications, and their history of performing the surgery.

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Second, consider the hospital’s reputation for orthopedic care. Hospitals with dedicated orthopedic departments and access to the latest technology tend to have higher success rates for joint replacement surgeries. It's also important to ensure that the hospital offers comprehensive pre-operative and post-operative care, including physical therapy services.

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To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote

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Patients are advised to seek hospitals that are accredited by Global Healthcare and only work with medical tourism facilitators who are certified by Global Healthcare Accreditation or who have undergone certification from the Certified Medical Travel Professionals (CMTP). This ensures that the highest standards in the industry are met. GHA accredits the top hospitals in the world. These are the best hospitals in the world for quality and providing the best patient experience. Click the link to check out hospitals accredited by the Global Healthcare Accreditation: https://www.globalhealthcareaccreditation.com