Resurfacing Shoulder Hemiarthroplasty
Resurfacing hemiarthroplasty is a specific type of partial shoulder joint replacement surgery. Some cases of shoulder damage that require surgery are limited enough where the top of the arm only needs a cap-like prosthesis instead of a full replacement. A resurfacing hemiarthroplasty can help restore function to the joint if the shoulder socket is relatively intact.
People diagnosed with a shoulder issue that is causing debilitating symptoms to need information when looking into surgical options, take a few moments to read the following information. BEST Health System is committed to patient education as a key element of patient-centric care. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team with questions or to learn more about treatment options.
Patients Who May Need Resurfacing Hemiarthroplasty
Resurfacing hemiarthroplasty typically treats patients dealing with shoulder injuries or conditions:
- Mild to moderate arthritis of the shoulder where the upper arm has damage but the shoulder socket remains relatively intact
- Rotator cuff injuries where there is a higher risk of shoulder socket implant failure, particularly in young and active patients
With shoulder arthritis and rotator cuff tears, conservative care is almost always the initial form of treatment. Surgery will usually not be recommended until doctors and patients determine nonsurgical treatments have been exhausted. When recommended, resurfacing hemiarthroplasty can relieve pain and restore function in the shoulder and arm.
Resurfacing Hemiarthroplasty Procedure Overview
Approaches to resurfacing hemiarthroplasty vary. Surgeons can perform this procedure in a hospital setting using traditional techniques or in an outpatient center using a minimally invasive approach.
For both types, resurfacing hemiarthroplasty typically consist of these steps:
- The surgeons enter the shoulder through an incision
- The top of the humerus is resurfaced and fitted with a prosthetic placed over the ball of the upper arm bone, or humerus
- Any necessary soft tissue will be carefully reattached and the incision closed
Recovery time for partial shoulder replacement surgeries varies from patient to patient and by type. Your post-surgical staff will provide detailed instructions for incision care and rehabilitation. Patients should expect to wear a sling for about a month and will be unable to drive during this time. Physical therapy and rehabilitation are critical to the recovery process, helping to restore function and increase strength and range of motion in the shoulder.
Resurfacing Hemiarthroplasty Cost
Resurfacing hemiarthroplasty cost is generally determined by a number of factors. This includes the specific type of procedure, the type of procedure, the type of implant, and the insurance carrier. Medicare does cover resurfacing hemiarthroplasty when deemed medically necessary by a physician. At BEST Health System, we accept Medicare, most private health insurances, worker’s compensation, and personal injury cases. A member of our team will be able to answer your questions about the cost of conservative and surgical treatments.
BEST Health System Can Help You Start Your Journey to Relief
For information about treatments for shoulder injuries that help you get back to the people and activities you love, get in touch with BEST Health System today. Our skilled physicians have decades of combined experience in helping patients find the lasting relief they deserve.
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