Improved Shoulder Replacements With Computer Assistance

As imaging and computer technology continues to advance, more and more orthopedic treatment options become available. Computer-assisted arthroplasty is an example of this form of innovation entering into joint care. What once required fuzzy X-rays and guesswork to accomplish can now be done with confidence and precision. This is accomplished through computer-assisted arthroplasty, providing a near-perfect envisioning of the structure and position of the surgical site. Creating a highly-precise surgical plan in a virtual environment and transferring it into the operating room has produced outstanding results. Improvements have been seen in both the longevity of the replacement. They have also been seen in the long-term pain relief available to the patient. But how does Computer-Assisted Arthroplasty accomplish this?

Improved Shoulder Replacements With Computer Assistance

While X-ray images are still a valuable tool during the procedure, they’re no longer the only guide the surgeon has to rely on. Computer-assisted arthroplasty uses a CT scan to create a picture-perfect reproduction of the area to be treated. A physical model is made from the results of the scan and used throughout the procedure as a sort of guide. The surgeon is provided with a set of MR goggles or Mixed-Reality Goggles to further enhance the procedure results. This provides a digital overlay during the procedure that helps the surgeon clearly visualize their working area.

The physical model that was created with being secured to the target shoulder to aid in ensuring drill points are properly placed. Once the drilling is complete, the implant will be set in place and securely firmly, with the physical model being discarded. These steps ensure that the patient has a successful surgery from which they recover quickly. It also guarantees that the replacement shoulder will have longevity and effectively reduce ongoing pain. There are three cases where this procedure truly shines:

• Where bones have become deformed
• Severe arthritis has resulted in advanced wear
• The bones in the shoulder are misaligned

In most cases, a significant amount of natural wear and tear will result in a shoulder needing replacement. Those who are in need of a replacement due to the presence of arthritis generally have a family history of this condition. Trauma and injury are the primary cause in some cases and can be the cause of accelerated wear-and-tear or arthritis.

Shoulder pain can result in significant impacts on our quality of life. It can limit our ability to participate in our favorite activities, make sleeping difficult, and impair our ability to perform in our jobs. Treatment doesn’t generally begin with a shoulder replacement. A range of no-invasive approaches will be used in most cases, including medication and physical therapy.

Contact Your Orthopedic Specialist For More Info

When you live every day with shoulder pain, it’s time to seek some relief. Seeing an orthopedic specialist is an important first step on the journey to freedom from pain. Call and schedule a consultation to start working towards a future with improved shoulder function and less pain.