Reverse Shoulder Replacement surgery is growing at a rapid pace. More Reverse shoulders are being performed than Anatomic shoulder replacements. Why? Because indications for them have increased over the years and complication rates are decreasing. When a rotator cuff can’t be repaired and one has pain and loss of function, such as the inability to raise the arm, a Reverse replacement often helps regain this important use of the shoulder. It is also indicated in fractures and failed previous shoulder surgery. Complications like infection and dislocation do exist, but if one is in constant pain or can’t lift one’s arm, it may be worth considering a Reverse Shoulder Replacement.
It is called a “Reverse” because the ball part of the prosthesis is placed on the socket side and the socket is placed on the ball side. This gives the deltoid muscle a mechanical advantage to lift the arm up.
