Shoulder Replacement Surgery, Cost, and Recovery Time

Shoulder replacement surgery is a significant choice for people who have serious shoulder injuries and joint problems. In 2022 alone, India witnessed a total of 5,460 shoulder replacement surgeries, a testament to the growing significance of this medical treatment. The procedure involves replacing damaged shoulder joint parts with new ones, which helps reduce pain and regain proper movement.

Shoulder injuries can have a significant impact on everyday activities, and when conventional treatments (such as physical therapy, medications, and injections) fail, surgery becomes an ideal choice. These injuries are particularly common in high-impact sports such as football, hockey, tennis, and baseball pitching, as well as jobs requiring repetitive shoulder use. The shoulder replacement cost in India is a major advantage of this procedure, with a beginning price as low as $7,200.

The shoulder is a flexible joint made up of three bones: the upper arm bone (humerus), the shoulder blade (scapula), and the collarbone (clavicle). When the shoulder joint experiences chronic pain due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or severe traumatic injuries, doctors might suggest shoulder replacement surgery. The problematic part of the joint is replaced with a synthetic implant during this treatment. While hip and knee replacements are more common in India, shoulder replacement surgery is just as successful in reducing pain and enhancing mobility.

Common reasons for undergoing shoulder replacement include:

Osteoarthritis: Over time, the cushioning material between the bones of the shoulder can wear away, producing pain, stiffness, and difficulty in moving. This can make daily activities difficult. This is the most common reason for shoulder replacement surgery.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: There is a condition in which the body’s defensive system attacks the shoulder joint. This yields swelling and pain, and the joint weakens over time.

Rotator Cuff Tears: If major damage to the shoulder occurs, such as a large tear that cannot be repaired with exercises or rest, doctors may need to replace a few parts of the shoulder to restore its function.

Traumatic Injuries: Accidents, falls, or other trauma can cause fractures or serious injury to the shoulder joint, resulting in permanent shoulder joint problems.

Osteonecrosis: Certain shoulder disorders can sometimes prevent blood from reaching the humerus, a bone in your arm. When a bone does not receive enough circulation, it might become weak and may collapse.

Signs that Indicate a Need for Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Persistent Shoulder Pain: Long-term pain that does not improve with rest or medication.

Trouble Moving Your Arm: Difficulty raising or moving your arm due to stiffness and pain.

Pain at Night: Shoulder pain that keeps you up at night or prevents you from sleeping well.

Joint Deformity: Swelling, deformity, or an unusually shaped shoulder joint.

Failure of Conservative Treatments: When medications, exercises, or injections failed to reduce your shoulder pain.

Bad Arthritis or Joint Problems: Severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis, or post-traumatic arthritis that has resulted in the significant joint destruction

Unsuccessful Previous Interventions: If earlier treatments for shoulder problems, such as surgery or other medical interventions have not resulted in long-term improvement.

Types of Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Total Shoulder Replacement (Total Shoulder Arthroplasty): Total shoulder replacement, also known as total shoulder arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which the worn-out ball (head of the humerus) and socket (glenoid) of the shoulder joint are replaced with metal and plastic artificial parts. The surgery, which is commonly recommended for severe shoulder problems such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, begins with anesthesia and a precisely positioned incision. Damaged parts are removed, and new parts are securely attached with cement or other special techniques. This procedure provides pain relief, improved joint movement, and improved daily function.

Partial Shoulder Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty): A partial shoulder replacement, also known as hemiarthroplasty, is a surgical procedure used to repair an injured shoulder. It’s similar to replacing a worn-out joint part with a metal piece. But in this case, only the damaged ball of the shoulder is replaced, not the socket. This is a good option when the socket is still in good condition. During the procedure, surgeons create a cut, replace the ball with a metal one, check the socket, and strongly connect the new part. This helps to stabilize the shoulder and may allow you to recover faster, especially if only the ball is affected.

Reverse total shoulder replacement (Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty): Reverse total shoulder replacement surgery is used to treat severe shoulder arthritis or irreparable rotator cuff injury. Unlike traditional replacements, it switches the positions of the ball and socket components, improving arm movement and stability.  This treatment is beneficial to people who have weak rotator cuffs since it allows for better shoulder function and less pain.

Resurfacing Arthroplasty: Resurfacing arthroplasty includes replacing only the damaged humeral head surfaces while keeping extra bone. This treatment is less invasive than total shoulder replacement and is frequently advised for younger individuals who have specific shoulder issues. It tries to keep the shoulder joint’s natural structure while offering pain relief and improved function.

Stemless Shoulder Replacement: The long stem part of the artificial bone in your upper arm is removed during a stemless shoulder replacement. This saves more of your natural bone and may work effectively for people with specific body characteristics. It could mean fewer chances of bone breaking and easier future procedures if necessary.

Revision Shoulder Replacement: Revision shoulder replacement is performed after a previous shoulder replacement has worn out or failed. This could be due to a variety of factors such as implant loosening, infection, or component wear. The old components are removed, and new ones are fitted to restore joint function.

Risk Factors of Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Potential complications and risks associated with shoulder replacement surgery are:

Infection: Wound or deep tissue infections may emerge, requiring antibiotics or additional surgeries.

Dislocation: The new joint may become misaligned, leading to remedial action.

Prosthesis Issues: Components may wear out or become loose, necessitating revision surgery.

Nerve Damage: During the surgery, nearby nerves may be damaged.

Increased Risk for Diabetes Patients: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of complications such as infections.

Unsatisfactory Pain Relief: Surgery may not relieve pain or restore full mobility and strength.

Fracture: Bones surrounding the prosthetic joint may fracture during or after surgery.

Implant Loosening: Components may become loose over time, requiring additional surgery.

Limited Range of Motion: Some patients may experience limited shoulder movement.

Blood Clots or Thrombosis: Clots may develop in veins and cause problems if they spread to important organs.

Scarring: Surgical incisions may leave visible scars.

Delayed Healing:  Incision sites may take longer to heal or become infected.

Anesthesia Risks: General anesthesia can cause severe reactions or respiratory problems.

Blood Loss: Surgery can lead to significant blood loss, necessitating transfusions.

Shoulder Replacement Surgery Cost in India

The Shoulder Replacement surgery cost in India is quite affordable, starting at around $5000 but it can vary based on factors such as your medical condition, the surgeon’s experience, and the chosen hospital. On average, the estimated cost ranges from USD 6500 to USD 8100. The success rate for this surgery exceeds 95%, offering a promising outcome. Diagnostic tests like X-rays, MRI scans, and sometimes blood tests are conducted to assess the bone’s condition. Various factors, including room preference, disease severity, and potential complications, can influence the overall expense. In a country renowned for advanced medical facilities and skilled experts, opting for Shoulder Replacement surgery in India offers effective care at a fraction of the cost, making it a favorable choice for many.

Total Shoulder Replacement (Total Shoulder Arthroplasty):$5000 – $8000

Partial Shoulder Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty):$4500 – $7000

Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement: $6000 – $8500

Stemless Shoulder Replacement: $5500 – $7500

Resurfacing Shoulder Replacement: $5500 – $8000

Revision Shoulder Replacement: $5500 – $7500

Top Shoulder Replacement Surgery Doctors in India

India boasts a team of exceptional and best shoulder replacement surgeons who are renowned for their outstanding skills. Indian hospitals are globally acclaimed for their state-of-the-art medical facilities, innovative technologies, and round-the-clock dedicated staff. Thanks to these highly qualified specialists, India has emerged as a popular destination for shoulder replacement surgery, attracting patients seeking the expertise of the best shoulder replacement surgeons in the country.

Dr. Prakash Doshi – Nanavati Hospital, Mumbai

Dr. SKS Marya – Medanta, Gurgaon

Dr. Raman Kant Aggarwal – Medanta Medicity, Gurugram

Dr. Harshvardhan Hegde – Fortis Hospital, Delhi

Dr. Krishnamoorthy K – Apollo Hospital, Chennai

Dr. Vikram Shah – Shalby Hospital, Ahmedabad

Dr. Gurinder Bedi – Fortis Hospital, Delhi

Dr. Ashok Rajgopal – Medanta Medicity, Delhi

Dr. Sunil G. Kini – Manipal Hospital, Bangalore

Dr. IPS Oberoi – Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon

Best Shoulder Replacement Surgery Hospitals in India

Top orthopedic hospitals in India provide attractive shoulder replacement surgery packages to patients. However, pricing and services differ for each hospital. These world-class hospitals place importance on patient well-being, considering the treatment success when patients fully recover and return to a normal, healthy lifestyle. The cost of shoulder replacement surgery in India is a key factor for medical patients looking for high-quality care at a lesser cost.

Max Super Specialty Hospital Saket – Delhi

Fortis Escorts Heart Institute – Delhi

Apollo Hospital Chennai – Chennai

Aster Medcity – Kochi

Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals – Delhi

SevenHills Hospital – Mumbai

Artemis Hospital – Gurgaon

Medanta -the Medicity – Gurgaon

BLK Super Speciality Hospital – Delhi

Fortis Memorial Research Institute – Gurgaon

Top Shoulder Replacement Surgeons in India

• 

  Dr. Anil Arora

  Associate Director, MBBS, MD, DNB

  Orthopedician

  33+ years of experience

• 

  Dr. Ashok Rajgopal

  Chairman, MBBS, MS, MCh, FRCS

  Orthopaedic

  47+ years of experience

• 

  Dr. Subhash Jangid

  Head of Department , DNB, MS, MBBS

  Orthopaedic

  22+ Years of Experience

Best Shoulder Replacement Surgery Hospitals in India

Fortis Hospital, Gurgaon

Medanta The Medicity

Max Hospital, Gurgaon

Artemis Hospital

Jaypee Hospital

Apollo Hospital, Delhi

Marengo Asia Hospitals Formerly W Pratiksha Hospital, Gurgaon

Manipal Hospital Dwarka, Delhi

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