Shoulder Resurfacing Surgery
Shoulder resurfacing is an alternative to a total shoulder replacement for patients who are young and have active lifestyles.
Rather than cutting and replacing the two bones (humerus and scapula) in the joint, the damaged top of the arm bone (the humeral head) is replaced with a hemispheric metallic head.
This gives a new surface to the ball of the joint while allowing much of the natural bone to remain intact. The resurfacing prosthesis is affixed to the bone after the diseased or injured portion is removed.
The prosthesis is shaped like the ball of the upper arm, which fits into the shoulder socket forming the shoulder joint. The metal ball of the upper arm prosthesis is connected to a metal stem. The metal stem is inserted down the center of the upper arm or humerus, and is cemented in to secure the replacement metal head in place. The humeral head replacement fits into the reshaped socket, creating greater shoulder joint stability and, upon recovery, restoring pain-free, full range of motion to the shoulder joint and arm.
Shoulder resurfacing may offer more bone retention, and if future revision surgery is necessary, the surgery is less involved making the recuperation much faster for the patient. The injured or diseased shoulder joint must not be too advanced for this procedure, patient selection is critical to optimal success.
Shoulder Resurfacing Surgery FAQ
Who is a candidate for shoulder resurfacing?
Shoulder resurfacing is a more conservative alternative to total shoulder replacement, making it ideal for patients who need **pain relief and improved mobility** but do not yet require a full replacement.
It is commonly recommended for individuals with:
- **Osteoarthritis**
- **Rheumatoid arthritis**
- **Avascular necrosis**
- **Rotator cuff disease or injury**
- **Post-traumatic arthritis**
What are the benefits of shoulder resurfacing?
Shoulder resurfacing is often considered an alternative to total shoulder replacement. If your surgeon determines this is the best option for you, the benefits may include:
- **Preservation of normal bone structure**
- **Less-invasive surgery** with reduced trauma
- **Lower risk of fat embolism** from surgical trauma
- **Compatible with bone deformities** that prevent traditional replacements
- **No risk of fracture at the tip of the prosthesis**
- **Quicker recovery and less post-operative pain**
- **Easier revision surgery if needed in the future**
What should patients expect after shoulder resurfacing?
Patients typically **stay in the hospital for one to two days** following the procedure. **On the second day**, bandages are removed, and light exercises begin to aid recovery.
Key post-surgical expectations include:
- **Wearing a sling for up to six weeks**
- **Performing home exercises** to restore joint motion
- **Returning to driving within 2 to 6 weeks** (depending on recovery)
- **Resuming golf and other low-impact activities after 3 months**
- **Avoiding high-contact sports** to prevent complications