Shoulder Replacement

When it comes to shoulder problems, the Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Orthopaedic Institute is home to one of the most advanced programs in Pennsylvania. This level of expertise means you have a wide range of options. If the pain is interfering with your busy lifestyle and other treatments aren’t successful, shoulder replacement surgery can provide lasting relief.

What is shoulder replacement surgery?

Your shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint made up of three bones:

1. Humerus, which is the bone of your upper arm
2. Shoulder blade
3. Collarbone

Your shoulder blade cradles the ball-shaped head of the humerus, allowing you to move your shoulder in a wide range of motions. During shoulder replacement surgery, we remove the damaged parts of the joint and replace them with artificial joints made of metal and plastic.

Shoulder replacement surgery at AHN: Why choose us?

Shoulder replacement surgery is a complex procedure. Our experience from performing hundreds of joint replacement procedures each year gives you the best chance for pain-free living.

Our team of surgeons completed focused training (fellowships) in hand and upper extremity surgery, including care for complex shoulder problems. This level of training leads to safer, more accurate procedures. We position replacement devices in precisely the right spot for a new joint that feels more like your own. Get more information about our Hand and Upper Extremity Division.

Minimally invasive shoulder surgery

AHN Orthopaedic Institute surgeons were the first in Pennsylvania to use ExactechGPS® for more precision in shoulder replacement surgery. ExactechGPS provides surgeons with real-time guidance in total shoulder replacement surgery. This advanced platform combines surgeon expertise with a computer system to perform your shoulder surgery a goal of faster recovery.

Conditions we treat with shoulder replacement surgery

Conditions that may require knee replacement surgery include:

• Arthritis

• Complications from a bone infection (osteomyelitis)

• Bone cancer

• Bone diseases such as osteonecrosis, which causes permanent damage to bone tissue

• Some forms of orthopaedic trauma, including shattered bones

Shoulder replacement surgery: What to expect

The most common reason for shoulder replacement surgery is to relieve pain that does not respond to other treatments. Find out more about shoulder pain.

If you are considering shoulder replacement surgery, here’s what to expect:

1. Evaluation: Your care starts with a complete examination, including imaging tests to help us pinpoint the source of the pain. We also determine whether the joint damage is severe enough for surgery. Learn more about orthopaedic diagnosis.
2. Nonsurgical treatments: Our comprehensive approach to care includes trying nonsurgical treatments first. We may recommend physical therapy or injections to relieve pain. Find out more about orthopaedic and sports injury treatments.
3. Joint replacement surgery: If shoulder replacement surgery is right for you, we remove the joint and replace it with an artificial joint. We might replace the damaged parts of your shoulder. If the damage is severe, we may replace all parts of the shoulder.
4. Quick recovery: AHN physical therapists teach you how to use and care for your new joint. We are at your bedside hours after the procedure, helping you take strides toward resuming your favorite activities. Most patients go home the same day. Read more about orthopaedic physical therapy.

Contact us

Call (412) DOCTORS (412) 362-8677 or request an appointment to learn more about AHN Orthopaedic services.