While shoulder replacements have been performed for many years and enjoyed amazing success, the technology has taken some amazing steps forward in recent years. The components have been redesigned to more accurately replicate the natural shoulder anatomy and can be modified during surgery to perfectly match the patient’s specific anatomy (see images).
Further, there have been advances in instrumentation to help the surgeon place the components in the perfect position. Using a special radiologic study know as a CAT scan and specialized design software, patient specific guides are created to help the surgeon perform the surgery.
Using the CAT scan data, 3-D reproductions are created of the patients shoulder. Then, using this specialized computer software and 3-D printers, a guide is created that perfectly matches the patients shoulder joint.
This guide allows the surgeon to place the “crucial guide pin” in the perfect position (see images).
This is exciting new technology and should improve the outcomes of shoulder replacement.
When shoulder pain is severe, it can interfere with everyday activities and prevent you from getting sleep. If you’ve reached the point where the pain is interrupting your life, you should consider operative management. In this situation, shoulder replacement could be an excellent treatment option.
To see if you are a candidate for this new technological advancement for shoulder replacements, call my office at (719) 822-6277 for an evaluation.
