During hemiarthroplasty, a fractured proximal
humerus of the shoulder is repaired and replaced with prosthesis.
Also
Known As:
- Total
shoulder surgery
- Shoulder
surgery
- Shoulder replacement
Conditions
Treated with Hemiarthroplasty:
Hemiarthroplasty is performed in order to replace an
injured proximal humerus.
Non-surgical alternatives to hemiarthroplasty
include bracing and casting. Plate fixation is a surgical alternative to the
procedure.
Anesthesia
with Hemiarthroplasty:
Hemiarthroplasty is performed under general
anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware
during the procedure.
Potential
Complications from Hemiarthroplasty:
Possible risks following hemiarthroplasty include
nerve damage, vascular damage, tendon damage, pain, scarring, infection and a
negative reaction to the anesthesia. It is also possible to experience loss of range
of motion and for the prosthesis to fail.
Prognosis
after Hemiarthroplasty:
The prognosis for a positive end result following
hemiarthroplasty is good. However, the patient likely will not return to
pre-injury function.
Recovery
from Hemiarthroplasty:
Total recovery from
hemiarthroplasty takes ten to 12 weeks.