Shoulder Replacement Surgery in Houston
Shoulder pain can occur when the protective cartilage in your joint wears away, leaving bone rubbing against bone. A severe fracture, a rotator cuff tear or other joint damage can also cause pain. Shoulder replacement surgery addresses the underlying structural problems that medication and therapy alone cannot fix. Dr. Barrett S. Brown evaluates your specific situation through comprehensive imaging and examination, helping you understand whether surgery is the best way to relieve pain and restore mobility. Call our office today to schedule a consultation and learn if you’re a good candidate for shoulder replacement.
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Different Approaches to Shoulder Replacement
The type of procedure you need depends on the condition of your rotator cuff and the extent of joint damage. A traditional total shoulder replacement is a good option if your rotator cuff remains intact and arthritis is your primary concern. This approach maintains your natural joint anatomy while replacing damaged surfaces with smooth artificial components.
For those with significant rotator cuff damage alongside arthritis, a reverse shoulder replacement reverses the ball-and-socket configuration, allowing your deltoid muscle to compensate for the damaged rotator cuff. Some situations call for partial replacement, where only the damaged portion of your joint requires artificial components. Dr. Brown determines which approach suits your anatomy and lifestyle goals, explaining the differences you can expect from each option. Dr. Brown can also explain whether minimally invasive surgery with smaller incisions is an option.
What the Surgery Involves
Your procedure takes place under general anesthesia in a hospital setting. Dr. Brown carefully removes the damaged portions of your shoulder joint and prepares the bone surfaces to receive the artificial components. The metal and plastic implants are precisely positioned to restore smooth, pain-free movement. The entire process typically requires a few hours.
Modern surgical techniques emphasize protecting healthy tissue whenever possible. Dr. Brown moves muscles aside rather than cutting through them where possible, which helps maintain strength and supports better recovery outcomes. Once the new joint components are securely in place, he closes the incision and your shoulder begins its healing journey.
During the first weeks after surgery, you’ll wear a supportive sling and take prescribed pain medication. You will work with a physical therapist, who will guide you through exercises that rebuild strength gradually. Dr. Brown monitors your progress through regular appointments, addressing any concerns and adjusting your recovery plan as needed.
Questions About Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
What Should I Expect from Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Dr. Brown performs shoulder replacement surgery under general anesthesia at our Houston clinic. During this procedure, he makes an incision over the affected shoulder, moving the muscles aside to expose the shoulder joint. The surgery can be performed as open surgery, requiring a large incision, or minimally invasive surgery, using smaller incisions.
The upper arm bone is separated from the shoulder socket. The damaged portion of the upper arm bone is removed and replaced with a metal ball attached to a stem.
Next, Dr. Brown prepares the shoulder socket. A plastic component is placed within the shoulder bone. Then, he securely positions the artificial components, sutures the joint capsule, and closes the wound.
Why Choose Dr. Brown?
Deciding whether shoulder replacement surgery is right for you requires consideration of your current limitations and future goals. Dr. Brown takes time during your consultation to understand what matters most to you and whether surgery aligns with your expectations. Drawing on over 23 years of experience and state-of-the-art technology available through his affiliation with Fondren Orthopedic Group, Dr. Brown has supported many patients like you.
Many patients who have met Dr. Brown appreciate his professionalism and compassion. Whatever your individual needs may be, he will work with you to explore your options and devise a solution that gives you the best opportunity for a positive outcome.
What Our Patients Are Saying
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Schedule Your Appointment with Houston’s Expert Shoulder Surgeon!
If you’re ready to explore shoulder replacement surgery, contact Dr. Brown’s office at (346) 247-2531 or reach out online and schedule your consultation to learn more about your treatment options.
