Navigated shoulder replacement: A breakthrough in arthritis treatment

Shoulder arthritis, a common ailment affecting millions worldwide, often leads to debilitating pain and restricted mobility. For individuals facing advanced stages of this condition, shoulder replacement surgery emerges as a beacon of hope. However, not all cases are straightforward, and sometimes, the complexity of anatomy due to arthritis poses challenges for surgeons. This is where navigated shoulder replacement comes into play, revolutionising the landscape of shoulder surgeries. In his latest online article, Mr Andrew Chambler gives us his insights.

What is a navigated shoulder replacement?

Navigated shoulder replacement employs advanced technology to enhance surgical precision. It begins with a meticulous planning phase, where the position for the shoulder replacement is meticulously charted using a CT scan. This data is then uploaded to a computer system, which serves as a guide for the surgeon during the operation. By utilising real-time feedback and visualisation, the surgeon can accurately insert the replacement in the predetermined position, ensuring optimal alignment and functionality.

When is it recommended?

While navigated shoulder replacement can be utilised for any shoulder replacement procedure, it is often reserved for complex cases where the anatomy is distorted due to arthritis. These complex scenarios demand heightened accuracy to achieve successful outcomes, making navigated surgery a preferred choice for such patients.

What are the associated risks?

One might naturally wonder if the incorporation of advanced technology introduces additional risks. However, studies have shown that the risks associated with navigated shoulder replacement are no greater than those of traditional, non-navigated procedures. The primary focus remains on improving surgical outcomes while maintaining safety standards.

How many navigated shoulder replacements will patients typically require?

One of the significant advantages of navigated shoulder replacement lies in its potential to prolong the lifespan of the replacement. With precise positioning, there is an increased likelihood of longevity, reducing the necessity for revision surgeries. Consequently, patients undergoing navigated procedures may require fewer replacements throughout their lifetime compared to traditional surgeries.

What is recovery time like?

Recovery from navigated shoulder replacement mirrors that of conventional replacements. Typically, patients spend around three weeks in a sling post-surgery to allow for initial healing. Subsequently, a structured rehabilitation programme is initiated to gradually regain shoulder function over the following months. While individual recovery experiences may vary, the overarching timeline aligns with that of standard shoulder replacement procedures.

Mr Andrew Chambler is an esteemed specialist shoulder and elbow orthopaedic surgeon. You can schedule an appointment with Mr Chambler on his Top Doctors profile.