What is shoulder arthroplasty?

Shoulder arthroplasty is a surgical procedure that involves replacing the arthritic and damaged surfaces of the shoulder with artificial implants (prostheses). There are three types of shoulder arthroplasty: total shoulder arthroplasty, reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, and hemiarthroplasty. Total shoulder arthroplasty refers to the complete replacement of the shoulder joint with an implant.

This procedure is typically performed on patients (usually over 60 years old) with advanced arthritis who have already exhausted conservative treatment options (such as physical therapy, medication, intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid, PRP, stem cells, or rest).

The goal of shoulder arthroplasty is to relieve pain, restore the range of motion, and improve joint function, ultimately enhancing the patient’s quality of life.

When is shoulder arthroplasty indicated?

Several types of arthritis—such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteonecrosis, and post-traumatic arthritis (resulting from severe injury)—cause cartilage damage and impair joint function. The main symptoms of arthritis are pain, swelling, and stiffness (limited mobility).

When arthritis has progressed to a point where the patient experiences constant pain (even at night) and has difficulty performing daily tasks—and when conservative treatments no longer provide sufficient relief—shoulder arthroplasty is indicated.

What does the artificial joint consist of?

The prosthesis used consists of special titanium and steel alloys that replace the joint surfaces, and a plastic component (polyethylene) that replaces the glenoid. These are advanced, highly durable materials that are fully biocompatible and function like a natural joint.

How is Total Shoulder Arthroplasty performed using the Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) technique?

In total shoulder arthroplasty with the Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) technique, a small longitudinal incision is made on the front surface of the shoulder. The damaged joint surfaces are identified, removed, and replaced with a specialized prosthesis. Small stems may be used—or none at all—especially in younger patients, to preserve as much bone as possible.

This procedure is considered minimally invasive because, unlike traditional surgery, it does not cut or injure the muscles or tendons essential for shoulder function. As a result, the tissues heal faster, postoperative pain is minimized, blood loss is reduced, and recovery is quicker.

This modern technique, combined with fast-track recovery protocols, enables immediate mobilization of the operated joint, shorter hospital stays, and faster return to daily activities compared to traditional open procedures.

What are the advantages of Minimally Invasive Total Shoulder Arthroplasty?

• Avoids muscle injury, with smaller incisions
• Reduced hospital stay
• Less blood loss and decreased need for transfusions
• Immediate mobilization of the shoulder after surgery
• Reduced postoperative pain
• Faster recovery and quicker return to everyday activities

What does recovery after the procedure involve?

The patient can begin using the arm immediately after surgery, within the limits of pain (i.e., only to the point where no pain is experienced), and may return home after one day—depending on their clinical condition and medical history.

In the first few days post-op, a shoulder sling is typically recommended, along with simple daily mobility exercises to relieve discomfort.

The stiffness and pain the patient experienced before surgery usually subside within the first weeks of recovery. The patient then follows a comprehensive rehabilitation program with a physiotherapist to restore shoulder movement, stability, and muscle strength.