Shoulder replacement surgery can provide tremendous benefits for people experiencing symptoms that decrease their quality of everyday life. For Lancaster, PA, residents, Dr. Michael Bercik, and our high-quality orthopedic team provide convenient access to advanced treatment methods and experienced shoulder replacement specialists.

Dr. Michael Bercik is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon whose expertise goes far beyond traditional orthopedic methods. To ensure he can provide his patients with the highest standard of care available, Dr. Bercik completed two international fellowships under some of the most celebrated shoulder surgeons in the world. The first of these fellowships was completed under Dr. Gilles Walsh at the Centre Orthopédique Santy in France. The second included training under Professor Simon Bell at the Melbourne Shoulder and Elbow Centre and Monash University. These international experiences gave Dr. Bercik the tools he needed to think outside the box and develop innovative solutions that help his patients achieve outstanding results.

What is Shoulder Replacement Surgery and Why is it Done

When the structures in the shoulder become irreparably damaged, a shoulder joint replacement can be a great option to alleviate pain and restore movement. Typically, shoulder replacement surgery is performed by replacing one or more parts of the ball-and-socket joint in the shoulder with artificial structures made of biocompatible materials.

Depending on your anatomy and the condition of your shoulder, your surgeon will recommend one of various implant shapes and sizes. The goal is for this new structure to seamlessly fit in with the other structures in your shoulder. Ideally, it should be unnoticeable by you following recovery.

Common conditions that damage the shoulder and potentially lead to shoulder replacement surgery include:

• Osteoarthritis
• Inflammatory disorders (ex: rheumatoid arthritis)
• Injury to the rotator cuff
• Shoulder bone fractures
• Osteonecrosis

Shoulder Replacement Procedure Types

When you have shoulder replacement surgery, your orthopedic shoulder specialist will determine what type of shoulder replacement surgery is best suited for your needs. Available options include:

Anatomical Total Shoulder Replacement: The ball and socket joint is replaced with implants that mimic the natural shape.

Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement: The ball and socket joint is replaced with implants that are reverse of the natural shape.

Partial Shoulder Replacement: Only the “ball” of the ball and socket joint is replaced with an artificial structure.

What are the Risks of Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Shoulder replacement surgery is generally a safe procedure under the hands of an experienced surgeon, but there is a slight chance of the following risks:

• Dislocation
• Fracture
• Infection
• Blood clot
• Loose implant
• Rotator cuff failure
• Nerve damage

There is also a chance of continued symptoms or that the full range of motion will not be restored within the joint. When this is the case, your orthopedic surgeon will guide you on the recommended next steps.

Overall, shoulder replacement surgery can provide extensive benefits to those who experience severe symptoms of pain and lack of mobility. However, suppose you are considering this procedure. In that case, it is essential to speak with your orthopedic shoulder specialist to go over the type of procedure best suited for you, potential risks, and what you can expect from recovery.

Let’s Begin!

Shoulder replacement surgery can benefit people of all ages who meet the criteria for the procedure. Residents of Lancaster should set up their first appointment with Dr. Bercik at Lancaster Orthopedic Group to review their condition and develop a treatment plan to help them meet their goals. Schedule an appointment by clicking the  “Schedule An Appointment” link in the top right of the website or by calling (866) 564-1000.