Reverse Shoulder Replacement in Newhall, Encino and Thousand Oaks, CA

What is Reverse Shoulder Replacement?

Conventional surgical methods such as total shoulder joint replacement are not very effective in the treatment of rotator cuff arthropathy. Reverse total shoulder replacement is an advanced surgical technique specifically designed for rotator cuff tear arthropathy, a condition where you suffer from both shoulder arthritis and a rotator cuff tear.

Differences between Conventional and Reverse Shoulder Replacement

Conventional shoulder replacement surgery involves replacing the ball of the humerus with a metal ball and the glenoid cavity of the shoulder blade (scapula) with a plastic socket. If this surgery is used to treat rotator cuff arthropathy, it may result in implant loosening due to the torn rotator cuff. Therefore, a specifically designed surgery was developed called reverse total shoulder replacement to be employed in such cases.

In reverse total shoulder replacement, the placement of the artificial components is essentially reversed. In other words, the humeral ball is placed in the glenoid cavity of the shoulder blade (scapula) and the plastic socket is placed on top of the arm bone. This design makes efficient use of the deltoid muscle, the large shoulder muscle, to compensate for the torn rotator cuff.

Ideal candidates for Reverse Shoulder Replacement

Reverse total shoulder replacement may be recommended for the following conditions:

• Completely torn rotator cuff that is difficult to repair
• Presence of rotator cuff tear arthropathy
• Previous unsuccessful shoulder replacement
• Severe shoulder pain and difficulty in performing overhead activities
• Continued pain despite other treatments such as rest, medications, cortisone injections and physical therapy

Reverse Shoulder Replacement Procedure

Reverse total shoulder replacement surgery is performed under general anesthesia.

• Dr. Daniel Acevedo makes an incision over the affected shoulder to expose the joint.
• The humerus is separated from the glenoid socket of the scapula.
• The arthritic parts of the humeral head and the socket are removed and prepared for the insertion of the artificial components.
• The artificial components include the metal ball that is screwed into the shoulder socket and the plastic cup that is cemented into the upper arm bone.
• The artificial components are fixed in place.
• The joint capsule is stitched together, the tissues approximated and the wound is closed with sutures.

Postoperative care for Reverse Shoulder Replacement

You can get out of bed on the same day of the surgery but will usually have to stay in the hospital for 1-2 days. General postoperative instructions include:

• Take all prescribed medications as instructed.
• Undergo a gentle range of motion exercises to increase your shoulder mobility.
• Physical therapy will be recommended to strengthen the shoulder and improve flexibility.
• Avoid overhead activities for at least 6 weeks.
• Don’t push yourself up out of a chair or bed using your shoulder muscles.
• Avoid lifting heavy objects.

Risks and Complications of Reverse Shoulder Replacement

The possible risks and complications associated with reverse total shoulder replacement surgery include:

• Infection
• Dislocation or instability of the implanted joint
• Fracture of the humerus or scapula
• Damage to nerves or blood vessels
• Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
• Wound irritation
• Arm length discrepancies
• Wearing out of the components

Why Choose Dr. Acevedo for Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement

Patients choose Daniel C. Acevedo for reverse total shoulder replacement because of his expertise in managing complex shoulder conditions where traditional treatments may not be effective.

Reasons to choose Dr. Acevedo include:

• Fellowship-trained specialist dedicated exclusively to shoulder and elbow surgery
• Extensive experience performing reverse shoulder replacement for complex cases
• Expertise in treating rotator cuff tear arthropathy and severe shoulder dysfunction
• Advanced surgical planning tailored to each patient’s anatomy and condition
• Focus on restoring shoulder stability and improving functional movement
• Use of modern implant systems and precise surgical techniques
• Comprehensive evaluation to determine when reverse replacement is the best option
• Personalized treatment and rehabilitation plans for optimal recovery
• Emphasis on pain relief, improved mobility, and long-term outcomes
• Goal-oriented care to help patients return to daily activities safely and confidently

Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement FAQs

What are the symptoms that may lead to reverse shoulder replacement?

Symptoms that may indicate the need for surgery include:

• Persistent shoulder pain
• Significant weakness or inability to lift the arm
• Loss of motion despite conservative care
• Difficulty performing daily activities

How is reverse shoulder replacement diagnosed?

Diagnosis starts with a physical exam and medical history, followed by imaging studies such as X‑rays or MRI to assess the extent of joint damage, rotator cuff integrity, and bone quality.

How long is the recovery from reverse shoulder replacement?

Recovery typically involves:

• A period of sling use or immobilization
• Gradual rehabilitation to restore motion
• Strengthening with physical therapy
  Many patients see significant pain relief within weeks, with continued improvement over several months.

What activities are allowed after surgery?

After recovery, most patients can perform daily activities such as reaching, dressing, and light lifting. High‑impact activities or heavy lifting are usually avoided to protect the implant.

How long do reverse shoulder implants last?

Reverse shoulder implants are designed for long‑term function, but longevity varies by activity level, bone quality, and overall health. Many patients experience durable pain relief and improved function for many years.

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