Contact number: 020 7806 4010
Contact number: 020 7078 3831
Everything You Need to Know
Shoulder replacement is a type of joint replacement surgery aimed at restoring pain-free movement and function for those with severe shoulder conditions. This surgery is particularly beneficial for those who have not found relief through non-surgical treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes.
Key benefits of shoulder replacement include:
- Pain Relief: Significant reduction or elimination of shoulder pain.
- Improved Mobility: Enhanced range of motion and shoulder function.
- Quality of Life: Improved ability to perform daily activities and enjoy a better overall quality of life.
Before the Surgery
Consultation for Rotator Cuff Tendons
The first step is a thorough consultation with one of our expert orthopaedic surgeons. During this session, your medical history, symptoms, and previous treatments will be reviewed to determine if shoulder replacement is the right option for you.
Health Assessment
A comprehensive health assessment will be conducted to ensure you are fit for surgery. This assessment will also evaluate the condition of the rotator cuff tendons, which are crucial for shoulder stability and function. This includes blood tests, imaging studies (such as X-rays or MRI scans), and a review of any medications you are currently taking.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
To ensure a smooth procedure and optimal recovery, you will receive detailed pre-procedure instructions. These may include:
- Medication Adjustments: Guidance on which medications to stop or continue.
- Fasting: Instructions to refrain from eating or drinking after midnight on the day of your surgery.
- Lifestyle Advice: Recommendations such as stopping smoking and maintaining a healthy diet.
During the Surgery
Our state-of-the-art facilities and experienced surgical team are dedicated to ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the procedure.
Anaesthesia
You will receive anaesthesia to ensure you are comfortable during the surgery. Options include general anaesthesia, which puts you to sleep, or regional anaesthesia, which numbs the shoulder area while allowing you to stay awake during the procedure.
Surgical Process
The surgeon will make an incision over the shoulder to access the joint. The damaged parts of the shoulder joint, including the upper part of the arm bone, will be removed and replaced with artificial components such as a metal ball. The arm bone, or humerus, fits into the shoulder joint and plays a crucial role in its movement; during surgery, the damaged humeral head is replaced to restore function. These components mimic the natural shape and movement of the shoulder joint.
Monitoring and Recovery
Post-surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area. Our care team will manage your pain and monitor your initial recovery to ensure everything is proceeding as expected.
After Surgery
Immediate Post-Op Care
Managing post-operative effects such as swelling, bruising, and discomfort is crucial. Our team will provide you with pain management strategies and detailed care instructions. Physical therapy will focus on strengthening the rotator cuff muscles to support the shoulder joint and improve recovery. Physical therapy is often recommended to help regain strength and flexibility in the shoulder.
Follow-Up Care and Physical Therapy for Shoulder Replacement
Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your recovery and assess the success of the surgery. These visits are essential to address any concerns and ensure optimal recovery.
Medically reviewed by Mr Abbas Rashid - BSc(Hons) MBBS FRCS(Tr&Orth) on 26/04/2024
Hospital Fee Guaranteed
from £11,495*
The price shown includes all costs associated with your treatment, from admission to discharge. Doesn’t include surgeon or anaesthetist fee. Our hospital fee is guaranteed at the price quoted and valid for one month from the date issued, subject to pre-assessment.
| £11,495 |
| £14,245 |
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.
Appointment
Your journey begins with a detailed consultation to discuss your goals and determine your suitability for shoulder replacement.
Treatment Plan
A tailored treatment plan will be developed based on your consultation, outlining the specifics of your procedure and recovery plan. Depending on the extent of the shoulder damage, the treatment plan may include options such as partial shoulder replacement.
Pre-Procedure Assessment
A thorough pre-procedure assessment ensures you are fit for surgery, involving necessary tests to uphold the highest standards of care and safety.
The Procedure
Performed by our skilled medical team, the surgery will focus on achieving the best possible outcomes for your shoulder replacement. The procedure may involve techniques such as reverse shoulder replacement, especially in cases where the rotator cuff is damaged.
Aftercare and Recovery
Post-procedure, you will receive detailed aftercare instructions and have follow-up appointments to support your recovery and ensure the best results.
Top Tips
- Follow All Instructions: Adhere strictly to the aftercare guidelines provided by your clinician to avoid complications. Patients with a torn rotator cuff should follow their clinician’s recovery guidelines closely to ensure proper healing and avoid complications.
- Rest and Recuperation: Allow your body ample time to heal, avoiding strenuous activities that could impact the results.
- Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthily: Maintain a balanced diet and drink plenty of fluids to support your recovery and overall well-being.