Shoulder Prosthesis

Are you suffering from persistent shoulder pain that limits your mobility and interferes with your daily activities? It is very possible that you’re dealing with shoulder osteoarthritis. You’re not alone. Every day, many people in Quebec and across Canada turn to nationally and internationally recognized solutions to relieve their pain. A shoulder replacement or prosthesis, a specialized intervention, might well be the solution you’re looking for.

Dr. Beauchamp, an orthopaedic surgeon, offers advanced expertise in the placement of a shoulder prosthesis. This innovative solution not only significantly reduces pain, but also helps you regain an optimal range of motion. A wise choice for lasting comfort and improved quality of life!

What is a total shoulder prosthesis?

Much like hip and knee replacements, a shoulder prosthesis is a medical device designed to replace the damaged bony components of the joint. Made of biocompatible materials such as titanium and polyethylene, it is designed to faithfully reproduce the joint’s natural biomechanics and restore a functional shoulder.

Description of a shoulder prosthesis

A shoulder prosthesis consists of two main components: a metal rod inserted into the humerus and a cup attached to the shoulder blade. These artificial elements work in synergy to restore joint function, allowing for smooth, painless movements.

The different types of shoulder prostheses

1-Anatomical prosthesis

The anatomical prosthesis faithfully imitates the shoulder’s natural structure. It is particularly suitable for patients whose rotator cuff, that is, the shoulder tendons, is intact.

Anatomical prostheses replace the humeral head with a metal sphere, while the glenoid on the shoulder blade is covered with a polyethylene surface, helping restore a stable and functional joint.

Unfortunately, the shoulder is prone to various injuries. According to the Government of Canada, the shoulders or arms are the body parts most frequently injured in falls among older adults, accounting for about 15% of injuries.

Rotator cuff tendon tears, often due to wear-and-tear or trauma, can severely compromise shoulder function and, in some cases, repair is no longer possible.

When conservative treatments are not enough to relieve symptoms and a rotator cuff repair is not feasible, a shoulder prosthesis becomes a durable option, with or without associated osteoarthritis.

2-Reverse shoulder prosthesis

The reverse shoulder prosthesis is a major advance for patients with massive or irreparable rotator cuff tears. Although it has been available in North America for only a few years, it has demonstrated its effectiveness in Europe for several decades.

By reversing the natural configuration of the shoulder, it places the sphere on the shoulder blade and the cup on the humerus. This ingenious design allows the deltoid muscle to compensate for the deficient rotator cuff function, restoring mobility and stability to the joint. This new revolutionary surgical technique is quickly growing in popularity in both America and Europe!

When to consider a shoulder joint replacement?

Shoulders are unfortunately prone to various injuries. Indeed, according to the Government of Canada, shoulders or arms are the most frequently injured body parts during falls among older adults, representing 15% of injuries.

Rotator cuff tendon tears, often due to wear or trauma, can seriously compromise shoulder function and sometimes, unfortunately, repair is no longer possible.

When conservative medical treatments fail to relieve symptoms, a shoulder prosthesis may offer a lasting solution.

In such cases, joint replacement surgery becomes a serious option to restore function and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Why choose the services of Dr. Beauchamp for your shoulder prosthesis?

For your shoulder prosthesis, choosing the Beauchamp Clinic means opting for specialized care in a modern medical environment, with state-of-the-art equipment and high-quality standards.

Unparalleled expertise in orthopaedic surgery and shoulder prostheses

With extensive experience of over 30 years in orthopedic surgery, Dr. Beauchamp and his team stand out for their specialization in shoulder prostheses. Dr. Beauchamp has surrounded himself with orthopedic colleagues selected for their excellence in shoulder care, thus forming Dr. Beauchamp’s dedicated team. Recognized for their know-how and precise approach, they ensure care that will meet your specific needs.

Personalized care and a detailed assessment

For Dr. Beauchamp and his team, each patient deserves special, customized attention! This is why Dr. Beauchamp and his colleagues conduct a comprehensive assessment of your condition before proposing an appropriate solution. This level of personalized care, rare in the medical field, is essential to ensure an optimal, effective recovery. They will also support you throughout your rehabilitation and will oversee your physiotherapy until you achieve your maximum recovery.

Schedule your consultation today

If shoulder pain is limiting your movements or affecting your quality of life, don’t wait any longer for a consultation. Make an appointment now with the clinic Dr. Beauchamp to discuss the shoulder prosthesis options.

Don’t let shoulder pain limit your daily activities or disrupt your sleep. Thanks to the expertise of Dr. Beauchamp and his team in shoulder prostheses, you can regain your freedom of movement and quality of life, and resume your activities with peace of mind.

What results can be expected from a shoulder prosthesis?

Reduced pain

One of the major benefits of prosthetic surgery is pain relief. Many patients report a drastic decrease or even a complete disappearance of the pain that previously disabled them. This freedom from pain often allows for a return to moderate physical activity and an overall improvement in quality of life.

Improved mobility

A shoulder prosthesis aims to restore a functional range of motion. Most patients experience a significant improvement in their ability to perform daily activities such as combing their hair, getting dressed, or reaching overhead objects. This recovery of mobility significantly helps preserve independence and self-confidence.

How does rehabilitation work after a shoulder replacement?

Importance of rehabilitation for recovery

Rehabilitation is key to an optimal recovery after shoulder surgery. It begins in the first few weeks after the operation and can last for several months. A well-designed rehabilitation program aims to restore mobility, strengthen the surrounding muscles, and ensure the quality anchoring of the prosthesis.

Recommended rehabilitation exercises

The rehabilitation exercises are progressive and tailored to each patient. They may include:

• Passive movements guided by a physical therapist
• Gentle stretching exercises
• Progressive muscle strengthening
• Proprioception exercises to improve shoulder stability

Management of mechanical constraints and return to athletic activities

The management of mechanical constraints is crucial for the longevity of the prosthesis. Patients must avoid heavy lifting and sudden movements for several months. The return to athletic activities must be gradual and adapted. Low-impact sports such as swimming, golf, or cycling are generally recommended, while contact sports (e.g., boxing, hockey) or those requiring repetitive overhead movements may be discouraged.

Book your shoulder prosthesis consultation today!

Don’t let shoulder pain limit your daily life or ruin your sleep. If you suffer from chronic pain or reduced mobility, it’s time to consider a lasting solution. An anatomical or reverse shoulder prosthesis might be the key to returning to an active, pain-free life.

Make an appointment today with a specialist to discuss your options. Every day without pain is a day gained – take the first step toward your recovery now!

Frequently asked questions about shoulder replacement

At what age should a shoulder prosthesis be considered?

The decision to undergo shoulder joint replacement is generally related to the deterioration of the joint rather than the age of the patient.

However, it is more commonly considered in individuals over the age of 55, as joint wear often appears in advanced years. Specialists assess the extent of the symptoms and the patient’s quality of life before recommending this surgical procedure.

What is the lifespan of a shoulder prosthesis?

Typically, a shoulder prosthesis can last between 10 and 20 years. The longevity of the implant is influenced by several factors, including the patient’s activity level, their age during the operation, and the surgical techniques used.

Intense and regular use can certainly accelerate the wear of the prosthesis, potentially requiring revision surgery. Careful planning of physical activities is thAt the Dr. Beauchamp Clinic, we believe every patient is unique, which is why we offer a personalized assessment where each person can ask all of their questions.

Can you return to sports after a shoulder replacement?

Each situation is different. Many patients can resume cardio activities such as running, cycling, or gym training, as well as low- to moderate-impact activities like cycling or golf. Impact sports such as boxing or collision sports like football or rugby are generally discouraged.

Can shoulder replacement surgery be done as outpatient same-day surgery?

Yes. Most patients who undergo shoulder replacement can leave the surgical center just a few hours after the procedure and return home with a simple prescription for oral pain medication. This approach is generally well tolerated by patients.

Is general anesthesia required for a shoulder replacement?

At the Dr. Beauchamp Clinic, each patient is evaluated by an experienced anesthesiologist who specializes in peripheral nerve blocks. Sometimes this type of block is sufficient to perform the entire surgery; in other cases, general anesthesia is necessary. The anesthesiologist determines the best option for maximum safety.

How much does a private total shoulder replacement cost?

The exact cost of a total shoulder replacement is determined by the complexity of the procedure and the type of implants required. In Canada, it is typically between $23,000 and $30,000 assessment and follow-up included.

Note: In Canada, no taxes apply to this type of treatment. Therefore, it is part of the support for patients with a total shoulder prosthesis.