The orthopedic specialists at Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG) Orthopedic Surgery provide expert care in reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) and revision shoulder replacement. These advanced procedures are best suited for patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears, severe arthritis, or failed prior shoulder surgeries
Reverse shoulder arthroplasty and revision shoulder replacement surgery offer the following benefits:
- Restores shoulder function – Improves range of motion and overall stability
- Significant pain relief – Reduces or eliminates chronic shoulder discomfort
- Increases strength – Enhances arm movement for daily tasks and activities
- Shortened recovery time – Many patients resume basic activities within weeks
- Ideal for complex cases – A preferred option for severe shoulder conditions or failed prior surgeries
How does reverse shoulder arthroplasty work?
Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty (RSA), also known as reverse total shoulder replacement or reverse shoulder replacement, involves surgically replacing the damaged shoulder joint with an artificial joint where the ball and socket positions are reversed compared to a traditional shoulder replacement.
- In a standard shoulder replacement, the ball is on the upper arm bone (humerus), and the socket is on the shoulder blade (scapula).
- In reverse shoulder arthroplasty, the ball is attached to the scapula, and the socket is placed on the humerus.
The reversal shifts the shoulder’s mechanics, allowing the deltoid muscle to compensate for a damaged or non-functional rotator cuff, improving movement, strength, and stability.
When and why is RSA recommended?
Patients who struggle with chronic pain, instability or significant loss of motion despite conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections may benefit from RSA. This procedure is particularly effective for individuals whose rotator cuff is too damaged to support a standard shoulder replacement.
Who is a candidate for reverse shoulder arthroplasty?
RSA is often the recommended option for older, active patients with severe shoulder conditions, as it tends to result in better outcomes compared to traditional shoulder replacement. Thus, it is typically preferred by patients experiencing:
- Massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears that cause weakness and limited mobility
- Rotator cuff arthropathy, where chronic rotator cuff damage leads to arthritis
- Severe shoulder arthritis (osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis) causing pain and stiffness
- Complex shoulder fractures that cannot be repaired through traditional methods
- Failed previous shoulder replacements or surgeries, requiring revisional shoulder replacement surgery
What is revision shoulder arthroplasty?
Revision shoulder arthroplasty, also known as revision shoulder replacement, is a procedure performed when a previous shoulder replacement fails due to factors such as implant loosening, instability, infection, or mechanical wear. Revision shoulder surgery requires specialized expertise as these cases tend to be more complex than initial shoulder replacements. The results include restored function, stability, and alleviated pain in the affected shoulder.
Benefits of reverse shoulder replacement and revisions
Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty and revision procedures offer life-changing benefits for patients struggling with debilitating shoulder conditions. When conservative treatments are no longer effective, this advanced surgical option provides lasting relief and improved function.
- Improved Shoulder Function – Restores motion and enhances stability
- Pain Relief – Reduces or eliminates chronic shoulder pain
- Increased Strength – Allows better arm movement for daily activities
- Faster Recovery – Many patients resume basic activities within weeks
- Better Outcomes in Complex Cases – Ideal for patients with severe shoulder conditions or failed prior surgeries
Choose NGPG for specialized shoulder care
NGPG Orthopedic Surgeons are leading orthopedic specialists in reverse shoulder surgery and revisions, providing patients with confidence in receiving expert care and long-term results. To schedule a consultation to learn if reverse shoulder replacement or revision shoulder surgery is for you, visit NGPG Orthopedic Surgery to find a specialist near you.
When surgery is required to treat a shoulder condition, we perform procedures in surgical suites at Northeast Georgia Medical Center, which are equipped with state-of-the-art technologies and imaging capabilities. Whenever possible, we offer our patients access to minimally invasive surgery providing many benefits, including a quicker recovery, a lower risk of complications and less pain.