Shoulder Surgery

What is shoulder surgery?

When your shoulder is badly damaged by disease or injury, or a condition affecting the shoulder joint, such as rotator cuff tears, labral damage, fractures, or arthritis, you may be a candidate for surgery. Depending on the issue, surgery may involve repairing torn tendons or ligaments, removing damaged tissue, stabilizing the joint, or addressing bone injuries. We perform surgery using minimally invasive arthroscopy, which uses small incisions and a camera, or open surgery for more complex cases.

Why might I need shoulder surgery?

Osteoarthritis, often know as a wear-and-tear joint disease, is the most common reason for shoulder replacement surgery. It causes the breakdown of shoulder cartilage and underlying bone. Other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or arthritis from shoulder injuries, can also wear down the joint. Severe fractures, rotator cuff tears, or cartilage damage may lead to lasting joint pain over time. Deciding to replace the painful shoulder with an artificial joint is a collaborative choice between you and your health care provider. We often try other treatments first, including physical therapy, steroid or lubricating injections, anti-inflammatory medications to reduce to pain and swelling, and supportive devices to improve function.

What are the risks of shoulder surgery?

As with most surgeries, shoulder replacement surgery carries risks. General anesthesia, used to put you into a deep sleep during the procedure, poses risks for some individuals. Other potential risks include:

Blood clots in your arm
Bleeding
Infection
Nerve or blood vessel damage

Long-term risks are uncommon, but can include:

Loosening of the prosthesis
Scarring that may restrict shoulder motion
Persistent pain

Additional risks may depend on your specific health condition. Discuss any concerns with your health care provider before the procedure to ensure you’re fully informed.

How do I get ready for shoulder surgery?

Your health care provider will take a complete medical history and perform a thorough physical exam. They may order X-rays, blood tests, or urine tests to assess your overall health before surgery. You may meet with a physical therapist to plan post-surgery rehabilitation, discuss equipment like slings or arm supports, and identify home modifications, such as grab bars in the bathroom or removing obstacles to ensure safety.

Though rare, infections can occur after shoulder surgery, so you may need to visit your dentist beforehand to complete any major dental work, such as extractions or periodontal treatment, to lower infection risk. Inform your health care provider about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, herbs, and supplements you’re taking, as some may impact healing or blood clotting and may need to be stopped before surgery.

You’ll be instructed not to eat or drink for several hours before the procedure. Expect a hospital stay of a few days, and you won’t be able to drive for some time after surgery.

You’ll likely need help at home with tasks like bathing, dressing, cooking, and cleaning for a short period, so arrange support in advance. Discuss all details with your health care provider to ensure you’re fully prepared for the procedure.

What happens during shoulder surgery?

Shoulder surgery is customized to address your specific condition, such as rotator cuff repair, labrum repair, fracture fixation, or replacement. You may receive general anesthesia to keep you asleep and pain-free, or a regional nerve block to numb the shoulder and arm, allowing you to stay awake without discomfort.

The surgeon accesses the shoulder through small incisions (often arthroscopically with a tiny camera) or an open incision, depending on the issue. We repair damaged tissues, such as torn tendons, ligaments, or cartilage, using sutures, anchors, or other devices, and any loose fragments or bone spurs. In some cases, we use specialized implants or grafts to stabilize the joint.

The goal is to restore function, reduce pain, and improve mobility, with the exact steps varying based on the underlying shoulder condition.

What happens after shoulder surgery?

After surgery, we will take you to the recovery room as the anesthesia wears off, with most patients going home the same day or after a brief hospital stay, depending on the procedure.

Your shoulder may be immobilized with a sling or brace to protect the repair and promote healing, which could last from a few days to several weeks. Pain and swelling are managed with medications, ice, and elevation as prescribed by your health care provider.

Physical therapy often begins right after surgery, starting with exercises to restore range of motion and progressing to strengthening as the shoulder heals.

The incision (cut) will have stitches or staples that will be removed after a few weeks. Make sure you know how to care for this wound and keep it dry while it heals.

Long-term outlook

You may not regain full range of motion in your shoulder, but you should be able to perform daily activities such as dressing, reaching for objects, and light lifting.
It’s normal to feel mild stiffness or discomfort in your shoulder, especially during overhead movements or after prolonged activity
If we used implants or hardware, you might notice occasional clicking or sensations in the shoulder.
Metal implants, if used, may set off metal detectors. Inform security personnel to facilitate screenings.
Regular follow-up visits with your surgeon are necessary to monitor healing and joint health.
Inform your dentist about your shoulder surgery, as you may need antibiotics before dental procedures to prevent infection, especially if implants were used.

Next steps

If you or a loved one is interested in taking the first step to living a healthier, pain-free lifestyle, please call (314) 996-8970 or request an appointment online.