Reverse Shoulder Prosthesis

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Reverse Shoulder Prosthesis

The shoulder joint is one of the most mobile joints in the human body and is critically important for everyday activities. However, age-related degenerative conditions, trauma and joint diseases can seriously impair shoulder function. While conventional shoulder prostheses may be insufficient in some cases, a reverse shoulder prosthesis offers a more effective solution, particularly in cases of muscle tears and advanced joint disorders.

Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz, who has carried out significant work in orthopaedics and traumatology in Turkey, is a specialist with extensive experience in reverse shoulder prosthesis. This article explains what a reverse shoulder prosthesis is, who it is suitable for and Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz's approach to this treatment.

What Is a Reverse Shoulder Prosthesis?

A reverse shoulder prosthesis is a surgical method used for patients with advanced damage to the shoulder joint, especially those whose rotator cuff muscles (the muscle group that moves the shoulder) have lost their function. By changing the anatomical arrangement of the shoulder, this prosthesis allows the deltoid muscle to use its force more efficiently.

Unlike conventional shoulder prostheses, in a reverse prosthesis the joint surfaces are reversed and reconstructed. In other words, instead of the ball of the shoulder (the humeral head), a rounded head is mounted on the shoulder blade (scapula). On the humerus side, a special socket component is added to restore joint function.

Who Is a Reverse Shoulder Prosthesis Suitable For?

A reverse shoulder prosthesis is generally used in the following situations:

• Massive Rotator Cuff Tears: In patients whose rotator cuff muscles are severely damaged, a reverse prosthesis is often the most effective solution.
• Shoulder Arthrosis (Joint Wear): A reverse prosthesis may be used in advanced joint wear and osteoarthritis.
• Shoulder Fractures: It is used when joint integrity is disrupted after serious shoulder fractures, particularly in older people.
• Revision Surgery: A reverse prosthesis is preferred when a previously implanted shoulder prosthesis has failed.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis and Inflammatory Joint Diseases: For patients whose joint surfaces have been destroyed by chronic inflammation, a reverse prosthesis offers a long-term solution.

Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz's Approach to Reverse Shoulder Prosthesis

As an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in shoulder surgery, Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz performs reverse shoulder prosthesis operations with great care. The doctor creates an individual treatment plan for each patient and uses the most suitable surgical techniques to support a healthy recovery.

Treatment Steps Followed by Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz

• Detailed Patient Assessment: The patient's shoulder joint is examined in detail and a diagnosis is made using imaging methods such as X-ray and MRI.
• Individual Treatment Planning: A prosthesis model suited to the patient's age, lifestyle and muscle structure is selected.
• Minimally Invasive Surgical Approach: Minimally invasive techniques are used wherever possible to speed up the patient's recovery.
• Post-operative Rehabilitation: A physiotherapy programme is planned and followed under the doctor's supervision so that the patient can make the best use of the prosthesis.

How Is Reverse Shoulder Prosthesis Surgery Performed?

Reverse shoulder prosthesis surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes 1.5-2 hours. The following steps are followed during the procedure:

• The shoulder joint is opened and the damaged tissue is removed.
• A special metal head is placed on the shoulder socket (glenoid).
• A prosthetic socket is fitted to the humerus so that it articulates with the head on the glenoid.
• The joint is stabilised and the soft tissues are repaired.
• The surgical site is closed and the patient is woken up.

After surgery, the patient usually stays in hospital for a few days and then begins rehabilitation.

Recovery After Reverse Shoulder Prosthesis Surgery

• The shoulder is kept in a fixed position for the first few weeks.
• A physiotherapy programme is started after 4-6 weeks.
• The patient can return to daily activities within 3-6 months.
• It may usually take around 1 year for the prosthesis to reach full function.

Following the exercise programme recommended by the doctor regularly will help speed up recovery.

Advantages of a Reverse Shoulder Prosthesis

• Pain-free Movement: It makes it possible to move the shoulder without pain.
• Improved Muscle Function: It allows the shoulder to function through the deltoid muscle even when the rotator cuff is not working.
• Longer-lasting Prosthesis: Thanks to modern technology, reverse prostheses can remain durable for many years.
• Faster Recovery: Minimally invasive surgical techniques help patients return to normal life in a shorter time.

Reverse shoulder prosthesis is one of the most effective solutions for patients with advanced shoulder joint damage. Operations performed by Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz aim to help patients achieve a pain-free and comfortable life. If you are experiencing serious problems with your shoulder joint, it is advisable to consult a specialist orthopaedic surgeon to determine the most suitable treatment.

With Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz's patient-centred approach and surgical techniques, reverse shoulder prosthesis operations are carried out with the aim of achieving successful outcomes. Taking the right step towards healthy, strong shoulders is in your hands.