Did you know that approximately 53,000 people undergo shoulder replacement surgery each year in the United States? Precision is critical in these procedures, as even the slightest misalignment can affect recovery and long-term success. That’s where cutting-edge technology like ExactechGPS makes a difference.
Dr. Brian Kelly, a highly respected expert in Elbow, Knee, Shoulder, and Sports Medicine, serves patients in the Pittsburgh area with exceptional orthopedic care. By combining advanced technology with personalized treatment, Dr. Kelly aims to deliver superior outcomes for every patient. If you’re experiencing shoulder pain or considering a replacement procedure, schedule an appointment today to explore your options for precision-driven surgery.
Keep reading to learn how innovative tools like ExactechGPS are transforming modern shoulder surgeries and improving patient results.
Types of Shoulder Replacement
Partial Shoulder Replacement
Partial shoulder replacement, also called shoulder arthroplasty, replaces only the damaged ball (humeral head) of the shoulder joint while leaving the socket intact. This option is ideal for cases where shoulder wear is less severe. Patients who feel pain from arthritis or minor joint damage may find relief through this orthopaedic surgery. Pre-surgical techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging or cortisone injections, can help evaluate the joint condition before recommending shoulder replacement surgery.
Total Shoulder Replacement
Total shoulder replacement options involve replacing both the ball (humeral head) and the socket (glenoid). This procedure is often recommended for patients with severe arthritis or extensive joint damage. In the recovery room after surgery, patients benefit from nerve blocks and anesthesia to manage pain. Blood thinners may also be prescribed to prevent post-surgical complications. This comprehensive solution provides long-term relief for those suffering from significant shoulder wear.
Reverse Shoulder Replacement
Reverse shoulder replacement reverses the ball and socket placement, offering a unique approach for patients with damaged rotator cuffs. This option improves stability and mobility, often recommended by orthopaedic surgeons when traditional total shoulder replacement options are not viable. Magnetic resonance imaging is commonly used to assess the joint before surgery. Post-surgery, pain management techniques like nerve blocks help patients recover comfortably in the recovery room.
The Role of Accuracy in Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Precision in implant placement is crucial for achieving optimal patient outcomes in total shoulder replacement surgery. Proper alignment ensures the upper arm bone fits correctly into the ball and socket joint, reducing post-surgical pain and improving shoulder motion. Accurate positioning also helps address severe pain caused by shoulder arthritis, torn rotator cuffs, or severe shoulder fractures, while contributing to the longevity of the implant.
Advanced tools like ExactechGPS allow orthopaedic surgeons to align the prosthetic ball and shallow socket perfectly, minimizing stress on surrounding tissues like the rotator cuff tendon and shoulder blade. This level of accuracy enhances recovery, helping patients regain mobility faster and enjoy durable, long-lasting results.
How ExactechGPS Improves Shoulder Joint Replacement
ExactechGPS combines advanced computer-assisted technology with real-time visual guidance to assist orthopaedic surgeons in achieving optimal implant positioning during total shoulder arthroplasty. The system provides detailed, dynamic feedback, ensuring precision and reducing variability in how the surgeon replaces the shoulder bone components. For conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, shoulder arthritis, and severe shoulder fractures, this improves the placement of the metal ball and glenoid bone, helping to reduce pain and enhance shoulder motion. ExactechGPS also reduces the risk of complications in reverse total shoulder replacement and total joint replacement surgeries.
Why Choose Dr. Brian Kelly for Shoulder Surgery
Dr. Brian Kelly combines extensive experience and expertise in precision-driven procedures like total shoulder replacement, reverse shoulder replacement, and partial shoulder replacement. Using advanced tools like ExactechGPS, he ensures that the upper arm bone fits perfectly into the ball and socket joint during surgery, maximizing recovery and minimizing discomfort. Dr. Kelly works closely with each patient to address their unique shoulder conditions, such as arthritic shoulders, torn rotator cuffs, or severe pain.
Through personalized care, patients benefit from nonsurgical treatments when possible, physical therapy with a skilled physical therapist, and expert surgical interventions when necessary. Whether you're dealing with a torn rotator cuff, previous shoulder replacement issues, or severe shoulder fractures, Dr. Kelly's approach focuses on reducing pain, restoring shoulder motion, and improving overall quality of life.
Begin Your Journey to Recovery With Dr. Brian Kelly
Harnessing cutting-edge technology like ExactechGPS and backed by years of specialized experience, Dr. Brian Kelly is dedicated to providing exceptional shoulder surgery outcomes tailored to your needs.
Don’t wait to regain your mobility and quality of life. Contact our practice today to schedule an appointment and explore how our shoulder surgery services can help you achieve lasting relief and recovery.
