Partial Shoulder Replacement
Stemmed hemiarthroplasty is a form of partial shoulder replacement. In some cases of shoulder damage, a surgeon may only need to replace part of the shoulder joint with an implant. In this situation, a stemmed hemiarthroplasty can be performed if the arm bone has been fractured or otherwise damaged but the shoulder socket remains intact.
If you’re dealing with a shoulder injury or condition and are exploring surgical options, take a moment to read the following information. The BEST Health System team is dedicated to patient education as an important part of the care process. Please reach out to our team if you have any questions or would like to learn more.
Stemmed Hemiarthroplasty Expectations
If a patient is deemed to be a good surgical candidate, meeting health and diagnostic requirements, surgeons can recommend a stemmed hemiarthroplasty. This procedure can be performed at a hospital using traditional techniques, or on an outpatient basis thanks to the development of minimally invasive techniques.
A stemmed hemiarthroplasty procedure involves the following steps:
- The surgeon will access the shoulder through an incision and techniques designed to limit soft tissue damage
- The top of the humerus will be removed using microsurgical devices and direct visualization equipment
- The humeral ball will be replaced with a precisely fitted implant and stem that is attached to the bone
- Any necessary soft tissue will be carefully reattached and the incision closed
Recovery time for partial shoulder replacement surgeries varies from patient to patient. The surgical team will provide detailed post-operative care and recovery instructions. Most patients will wear a sling for a month and will be unable to drive during this time. Physical therapy and rehabilitation will be an essential part of the recovery process to help regain function and relearn basic activities.
Conditions Treated by Hemiarthroplasty
A stemmed hemiarthroplasty will generally be performed to treat patients dealing with the following injuries or conditions:
- Severe fractures of the upper arm bone, or humerus, often in three or more places
- Severe arthritis of the shoulder where damage is extensive to the upper arm joint but the shoulder socket remains relatively undamaged
- Large rotator cuff tears where there is a higher risk of shoulder socket implant failure
Surgery for severe fractures is usually recommended at the time of diagnosis, while with shoulder arthritis and rotator cuff tears, conservative treatments will be fully explored first. The goal of a hemiarthroplasty is to relieve pain and restore as much function as possible in the shoulder and arm.
Stemmed Hemiarthroplasty Cost
For patients undergoing stemmed hemiarthroplasty, the cost is generally determined by several factors. This includes the specific type of procedure, whether it is outpatient or hospital-based, the type of implant, and the insurance carrier. Medicare does cover medically necessary stemmed hemiarthroplasty when ordered by a physician. At BEST Health System, we accept Medicare, most private health insurances, as well as workers’ compensation and personal injury cases. A representative can answer any of your questions about the cost of our treatments.
Get In Touch with BEST Health System Today
To learn more about our treatments for shoulder pain and immobility, including conservative and surgical options, contact BEST Health System today!
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