Shoulder replacement surgery has advanced significantly, offering patients better outcomes than ever. With over 53,000 procedures performed annually in the U.S., the demand for precise, effective solutions is growing.
Dr. Brian Kelly, a Sports Medicine expert in Pittsburgh, provides top care for shoulder pain and mobility issues. By using tools like ExactechGPS in shoulder replacements, Dr. Kelly delivers accurate, personalized treatments with long-lasting results. Ready to restore your shoulder function? Contact us today to book an appointment.
Keep reading to learn the 5 key benefits of ExactechGPS technology in shoulder surgery.
Exactech Overview
Exactech is an advanced surgical technology designed to improve precision and outcomes in orthopedic procedures, particularly shoulder replacements. By offering real-time visual guidance and detailed analytics, Exactech helps surgeons achieve optimal placements and alignments tailored to each patient’s anatomy.
This innovative system not only enhances accuracy but also ensures that the shoulder provides stability and wears more effectively over time. With its ability to support faster recovery and deliver long-lasting results, Exactech has become a trusted choice for modern shoulder surgeries.
Learn the 5 key benefits of ExactechGPS:
1. Improved Implant Placement
ExactechGPS technology offers enhanced accuracy compared to traditional shoulder replacement methods, ensuring better alignment and positioning of implants for long-term functionality. This is particularly critical for conditions like shoulder arthritis, arthritic joint surfaces, and severe shoulder fractures, where precise placement of the prosthetic ball and plastic socket can significantly relieve pain and improve outcomes.
By using real-time data and precision guidance, ExactechGPS helps orthopaedic surgeons provide highly personalized results for every patient, ensuring both the ball and socket joint fit properly. For patients considering total shoulder arthroplasty, reverse shoulder replacement, or partial shoulder replacement, this advanced system is a game-changer in shoulder joint replacement surgery.
2. Reduced Risk of Complications
ExactechGPS provides GPS-guided assistance during surgery, significantly reducing the risk of complications, including improper placement of the metal stem or humeral head. Improper implant alignment in procedures like reverse total shoulder replacement or standard total shoulder replacement can lead to worsening pain, limited motion, and potential revision surgery. This guidance ensures that the upper arm bone fits securely into the shoulder blade and that the ball and socket joint achieves optimal stability.
By lowering the chance of errors, it helps reduce pain and ensures better long-term shoulder motion, minimizing the need for follow-up surgeries. This precision is especially vital for patients with rotator cuff injuries, torn rotator cuff tendons, or damaged connective tissue. Cortisone injections may also be used post-surgery to help manage pain and inflammation, speeding up recovery and restoring pain-free motion.
3. Personalized Care for Each Patient
ExactechGPS adapts to each patient's unique anatomy, offering tailored solutions for shoulder conditions such as arthritic shoulder, rheumatoid arthritis, or inflammatory arthritis. By utilizing advanced tools like 3D imaging and alignment guides, surgeons can ensure the articular cartilage and glenoid bone are carefully addressed, even in cases where the rotator cuff muscle or joint cartilage has deteriorated.
Tools Optimized for Patient Needs
- Alignment Guides: Adjusted to match the glenohumeral joint and specific alignment of the humerus bone to ensure the shoulder joint provides stability.
- 3D Imaging: Provides a detailed view of the shoulder blade and joint replacement needs for both the ball and socket, helping surgeons recommend shoulder replacement surgery when necessary.
- Custom Fit Instruments: Tailored to manage challenging cases, such as severe pain or damaged connective tissue in the head and shoulder areas.
- Real-Time Feedback: Ensures the prosthetic ball and metal ball are accurately positioned during surgery, improving outcomes for a healthy shoulder.
These tools allow surgeons to deliver highly personalized care, ensuring a well-planned rehabilitation program and faster recovery. This is particularly important for patients undergoing reverse shoulder replacement or total joint replacement who wish to regain shoulder motion and pain-free functionality.
4. Faster Recovery and Better Outcomes
Patients undergoing advanced shoulder replacement surgeries, such as reverse total shoulder replacement or partial shoulder replacement, often experience faster recovery compared to traditional methods. The innovative techniques minimize damage to the soft tissues, like the rotator cuff tendon, joint cartilage, and shoulder joint, leading to quicker rehabilitation and reduced pain.
In the recovery room, patients may begin gentle physical therapy or nonsurgical treatments like anti-inflammatory medications and cortisone injections within the first few weeks to restore shoulder motion. A well-planned rehabilitation program ensures most patients can regain shoulder stability and return to daily activities with improved comfort and confidence. Ensuring proper blood supply to the affected areas also promotes faster healing and long-term success.
5. Proven Long-Term Success
Advanced shoulder arthroplasty techniques, including standard total shoulder replacement options and reverse shoulder replacement, have demonstrated high success rates and long-term durability. These procedures are particularly beneficial for patients with severe shoulder fractures, worsening pain, or worn-out joint cartilage. The use of durable materials like highly polished metal balls, plastic sockets, and press-fit metal stems ensures reliable performance.
Clinical studies confirm their ability to reduce pain and improve the quality of life for patients with arthritic shoulders, rheumatoid arthritis, or similar conditions. For those considering shoulder replacement surgery, these proven techniques provide peace of mind and the confidence to enjoy a healthier, pain-free shoulder.
Discover Pain-Free Living with ExactechGPS
Advanced shoulder replacement techniques provide lasting results, helping patients restore mobility, comfort, and confidence. Using tools like MRI for diagnosis and planning, Dr. Brian Kelly specializes in these innovative procedures to support your recovery.
If shoulder pain is impacting your quality of life, we invite you to schedule an appointment with our practice. Dr. Brian Kelly, a skilled orthopedic surgeon, and our dedicated team provide expert shoulder replacement services tailored to your needs. Contact us today to begin your journey toward a pain-free life!
