Every year, more than 100,000 Americans have shoulder replacement surgery. Dr. Benjamin Szerlip is skilled in advanced shoulder replacement techniques, including both minimally-invasive approaches and traditional surgeries, so patients in Austin, Texas, can have the most appropriate care for their needs.
If you live with chronic shoulder pain, call or request an consultation online today.
“Dr. Szerlip did my shoulder surgery. He was very professional and caring and made me feel totally at ease. Each visit was informative and he showed the utmost interest in how I was doing and how the therapy was going. I have the most confidence in Dr. Szerlip and his ability to do exactly what is needed to get me back in the best health possible with my shoulder. I would recommend him to anyone needing shoulder surgery. The next time I need surgery it will definitely be with him.” — Peggy A.
Dr. Szerlip may recommend shoulder replacement surgery if you have painful, limited function that gets in the way of your ability to perform everyday tasks comfortably or wakes you up at night.
For example, your surgeon may suggest shoulder replacement surgery if you aren’t getting the pain relief you need from medication, injections or physical therapy. The surgeons may also propose shoulder replacement if you have suffered from shoulder fractures, or when the muscles that aid the shoulder’s movement (the rotator cuff) are torn or severely damaged.
Dr. Szerlip evaluates your condition and determines if a shoulder replacement is right for you. In addition to a physical exam, your surgeon may order an X-ray, MRI, or a CT scan to diagnose arthritis or another chronic problem and determine the best type of shoulder replacement surgery to meet your needs.
The two predominant options for shoulder replacement are:
In both procedures, the entirety of the shoulder joint is replaced, encompassing the damaged components of both the ball and socket. Differentiating factors between the two include the placement of implants and the muscle groups utilized for movement post-surgery.
During a shoulder replacement, your surgeon replaces the ball (humeral head) of the shoulder joint with a smooth, rounded metal head. They also replace the socket (glenoid) with a smooth, round plastic cup that fits the rounded metal head.
Total shoulder replacement recreates the natural ball and socket anatomy of your shoulder joint. Dr. Szerlip may recommend shoulder replacement if you have arthritis of the shoulder joint and a healthy, intact rotator cuff.
If you’re concerned about chronic shoulder pain or have been advised that you need shoulder replacement, call Dr. Benjamin Szerlip or schedule a consultation online today to learn about your surgical options.
