What is Total Shoulder Resurfacing for Osteoarthritis in Active Individuals?
Total shoulder resurfacing is a surgical procedure in which only the diseased or damaged part of your joint is replaced rather than the complete joint as in shoulder replacement.
Total shoulder resurfacing for osteoarthritis in active individuals is a minimally invasive surgical technique that utilizes the Anika Ovomotion procedure for active patients with shoulder osteoarthritis. The Ovomotion device, developed by Anika Therapeutics, is designed to restore the shoulder joint while preserving as much of the native anatomy as possible. This is especially beneficial for people engaged in physical activities like sports or demanding occupations.
Key advantages of total shoulder resurfacing using the Ovomotion procedure for active individuals with osteoarthritis include:
- Bone Preservation: Less invasive, with minimal bone resection, allowing for potential future revisions if needed.
- Anatomical Design: The implant’s shape closely matches the anatomy of the shoulder joint, promoting natural movement and reducing stress on surrounding tissues.
- Patient Benefits: Quicker recovery time, less postoperative pain, and the preservation of shoulder function compared to full shoulder arthroplasty.
Indications for Total Shoulder Resurfacing for Osteoarthritis in Active Individuals
Total shoulder resurfacing for osteoarthritis in active individuals is often suitable for young and active patients with early to moderate osteoarthritis, where the damage is primarily limited to the joint surfaces and athletes such as weightlifters who wish to return to their activities sooner without activity restrictions once fully recovered.
A joint is an articulation (junction) between 2 or more bones in the body. The joints are lined by soft articular cartilage that cushion the joints and aid in smooth movement of the joint bones. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes breakdown and eventual loss of cartilage in the joint, making the bones rub against each other, leading to painful movement.
Preparation for Total Shoulder Resurfacing for Osteoarthritis in Active Individuals
Preoperative preparation for total shoulder resurfacing may involve the following:
- A comprehensive medical evaluation, including physical exams, X-rays, and possibly MRI scans to evaluate the extent of the arthritis and joint damage
- Based on the imaging, the surgeon selects the appropriate size of the Ovomotion implant to match the patient’s anatomy
- Informing your doctor of any allergies to medications, anesthesia, or latex
- Providing your physician with a list of any medications or supplements you are taking
- You may need to adjust or temporarily stop taking certain medications - especially those that can affect blood clotting
- Abstaining from food or drink for at least 8 hours prior to surgery
- Signing an informed consent form after the pros and cons of the surgery have been explained
Procedure for Total Shoulder Resurfacing for Osteoarthritis in Active Individuals
In general, total shoulder resurfacing for osteoarthritis in active individuals may include the following steps:
- The patient is typically placed under general anesthesia, and the surgeon makes an incision over the shoulder joint.
- The shoulder joint is carefully exposed by retracting the surrounding muscles, tendons, and soft tissues.
- The damaged, arthritic cartilage on the humeral head (the ball of the shoulder joint) is removed. Instead of removing the entire humeral head like in a total shoulder replacement, only the surface is prepared.
- The surgeon places the Ovomotion implant onto the resurfaced humeral head. This implant is designed to restore the smooth, rounded surface of the humeral head, allowing for better movement and less pain. It is shaped to match the natural anatomy of the shoulder.
- The Ovomotion implant is often secured without the need for bone cement, allowing it to integrate with the bone over time.
- Unlike a total shoulder replacement, in most cases of the Ovomotion procedure, the glenoid (shoulder socket) is not resurfaced or replaced. This minimizes the complexity of the surgery and reduces the amount of bone that needs to be removed.
- Once the implant is in place and the joint is functioning smoothly, the surgeon closes the incision with sutures and applies a dressing.
- The arm may be placed in a sling to immobilize the joint temporarily during the initial recovery.
Postoperative Care and Recovery
The patient is taken to the recovery room, where they are monitored as the anesthesia wears off. Pain management with medication is provided. Physical therapy is usually initiated soon after the procedure to help restore range of motion and strengthen the shoulder. Since the procedure is less invasive than traditional total shoulder replacement, patients often experience a quicker recovery with less pain. Many patients can resume light activities within 6 weeks, and more strenuous activities, including sports, may be possible in 3 to 6 months, depending on the individual’s progress. Wound care instructions are provided to keep the wound clean and dry. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and adjust the rehabilitation program as needed.
Risks and Complications
Risks and complications associated with total shoulder resurfacing for osteoarthritis in active individuals include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Persistent pain
- Injury to nerves and blood vessels
- Shoulder stiffness or weakness
- Anesthesia-related risks