Shoulder Replacement Specialist

Maryland Orthopedic Specialists

Orthopedic Surgeons located in Bethesda, MD, Rockville, MD, & Germantown, MD

Your shoulder is one of the largest joints in your body, but it’s still vulnerable to fractures, arthritis, and injury. At The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division, Christopher S. Raffo, MD performs shoulder replacement surgery to help you recover from joint instability, pain, and immobility. To get back to your game or end chronic suffering, make an appointment at one of the practice’s locations in Bethesda, Rockville, or Germantown, Maryland.

Shoulder Replacement Q & A

What is shoulder replacement?

While less common than knee or hip replacements, shoulder replacement surgery can successfully alleviate shoulder pain and help you recover from an injury.

The actual procedure involves removing the damaged part(s) of your shoulder and replacing them with artificial components that enable the shoulder to move. In some cases, Dr. Raffo replaces only the ball part of the shoulder socket; in other cases, the entire ball-and-socket joint is replaced.

What causes the need for shoulder replacement?

Several conditions can cause shoulder instability, creating the need for shoulder replacement, including:

Arthritis: such as glenohumeral, osteoarthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis
Rotator cuff injuries: can result in rotator cuff arthropathy, which affects the shoulder joint
Fractures: breaks in the upper arm bone can lead to loss of blood supply
Avascular necrosis: when the blood supply to the bone is compromised due to steroid use, sickle cell disease, or other factors

In some cases, you might also need a shoulder replacement if you’ve had a previous shoulder replacement surgery that failed. This is called a revision surgery.

Am I a candidate for shoulder replacement?

You may be a candidate for shoulder replacement if you have:

Severe shoulder pain that prevents you from performing everyday activities or participating in sports
Pain while resting or sleeping
Limited motion or weakness
Failure with other treatment methods

If you’re not sure whether shoulder replacement is right for you, request a consultation with Dr. Raffo today.

What can I expect after shoulder replacement?

After shoulder replacement, Dr. Raffo helps you manage your pain and discomfort with the goal of getting you into physical therapy as soon as possible. He may recommend that you wear a sling to support your arm for up to four weeks after the procedure.

With rehabilitation exercises, both in the office and at home, you can make a full recovery and get back to the activities you love.

To request a consultation about shoulder replacement, call the office or book an appointment online.

What we offer