Shoulder replacement surgery is often necessary if the joint is severely damaged by injury or disease.
The Orthopedic joint replacement specialists at Marshfield Clinic diagnose and treat all types of joint problems requiring joint replacement.
During shoulder replacement surgery, all or part of your problem shoulder is replaced with an artificial joint, called a prosthesis.
The prosthesis replaces the rough, worn parts of your shoulder with smooth metal and plastic parts.
Before Surgery
Total joint replacement – bring your total joint replacement binder with you on the day of surgery.
Enlist a coach - your coach will provide emotional and physical support along with transportation on the day of discharge and for your follow-up appointments.
Pre-surgery exercises - start your pre-operative exercises. They are very important to do and can aid in a quicker recovery after surgery.
Dental needs - visit your dentist six months or less before surgery.
Report the following - report any infections or open cuts 24 – 48 hours before surgery day.
Medical leave papers - bring your medical leave papers to Orthopedics at least one month before your surgery date so they can be completed before your surgery.
Medications - stop the following medications 3 – 10 days before surgery unless told otherwise during your pre-operative physical exam:
- Aspirin
- Anti-inflammatory medications (ibuprofen, Aleve, Naprosyn)
- Fish oil
- Vitamin E
- Coumadin
- Plavix
Skin prep before surgery - shower or take bath with the CHG soap that was provided. Use this soap the evening before surgery and the day of surgery.
Prescription medication instructions - if you are instructed to take Coumadin, the evening before surgery, do so following your surgeon's instructions.
Eating and drinking restrictions:
- Nothing to eat or drink after midnight.
- The morning of surgery take your medications with only sips of water.
After Surgery
How to recognize and prevent complications.
Infection signs:
- Increased swelling and bright redness in the surgical area
- Change in color, amount, or odor of drainage
- Increased pain in surgical area
- Fever greater than 102°F - take your temperature
Symptoms of a blood clot
Blood clots can be in your leg or arm:
- Swelling in thigh, calf, ankle, arm, hand or shoulder that does not go down with elevation.
- Pain, heat, and tenderness in calf, back of knee, or groin area.
How to prevent a blood clot:
- Ankle pumps
- Walk
- Exercise hands or arms
- Take prescribed blood thinners
Pulmonary embolus (blood clot in lungs)
A blood clot in your lung is an emergency. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if a blood clot is suspected.
Symptoms of a pulmonary embolus:
- Sudden chest pain or chest discomfort
- Difficult and/or rapid breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Confusion
Prevent a pulmonary embolus (blood clot):
- Ankle pumps
- Walk
- Take prescribed blood thinners
