Benjamin DuBois, MD

San Diego Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Shoulder replacement surgery offers a reliable and effective solution for individuals dealing with advanced shoulder arthritis. For more details or to schedule a consultation, visit Dr. Ben DuBois’ office in San Diego, CA.

SHOULDER REPLACEMENT SURGERY
Severe arthritis can significantly impact daily life, often requiring joint replacement surgery to relieve pain and restore mobility. Joint replacement is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the United States, frequently enabling patients to resume their previous levels of activity.

Shoulder replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged joint with a prosthetic implant designed to mimic the natural joint's function. During the procedure, the humeral head (the ball of the shoulder joint) is removed and replaced with a metal component. The glenoid fossa (shoulder socket) is then resurfaced to remove arthritic bone, and a new socket is securely fitted.

After surgery, the new shoulder joint typically provides improved range of motion and significantly reduced pain, helping patients regain their quality of life.

REVERSE SHOULDER REPLACEMENT
For patients with shoulder arthritis and a severely torn rotator cuff—a condition known as "cuff tear arthropathy"—traditional shoulder replacement may not be a viable treatment option. In such cases, reverse shoulder replacement offers an effective alternative to alleviate pain and restore joint function.

Reverse total shoulder replacement is similar to traditional shoulder replacement, but the positions of the ball-and-socket components are reversed. The humeral head (upper arm bone) is replaced with a socket component, while a metal ball is secured to the glenoid fossa (shoulder socket).

This procedure relies on different muscles, such as the deltoid, to move the arm, making it a more suitable option for patients with significant rotator cuff tears. Unlike traditional shoulder replacement, which depends on healthy rotator cuff muscles for proper function, reverse shoulder replacement allows these patients to regain mobility and reduce pain effectively.

Learn more about Dr. DuBois and his shoulder pain treatment expertise.

Shoulder Anatomy

The shoulder joint consists of two main bones: the humerus (upper arm bone) and the scapula (shoulder blade). The humerus's round head fits into the scapula’s shallow socket, the glenoid fossa, forming the glenohumeral joint. Due to the minimal fit between the bones, this joint is naturally unstable and is often compared to a golf ball resting on a tee.

To improve the stability of this joint:

  • A labrum, a ring of cartilage, lines the outer edge of the socket, providing additional depth and support.
  • The surfaces of the humerus and glenoid are coated with cartilage, ensuring smooth, pain-free movement by minimizing friction.

The rotator cuff, a critical group of muscles and tendons, stabilizes and moves the shoulder joint. This group consists of four key muscles that enable:

  • Lifting and reaching motions.
  • Rotating the arm.

Rotator cuff injuries are common and can lead to pain, weakness, and limited mobility. Early diagnosis and treatment, such as physical therapy or surgery, are essential for recovery. Preventive measures include:

  • Maintaining good posture.
  • Practicing proper lifting techniques.
  • Incorporating regular shoulder-strengthening exercises to support overall shoulder health.

Rebuilding Mobility and Reducing Pain with Shoulder Replacement Surgery

For individuals with severe arthritis, joint replacement surgery can be a highly effective solution to alleviate pain and restore mobility. As one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the United States, joint replacement offers many patients the opportunity to return to their previous levels of activity and improve their overall quality of life.

Shoulder replacement surgery is specifically designed to address the damage caused by arthritis in the shoulder joint. The procedure involves removing the arthritic joint and replacing it with a prosthetic implant, typically made from metal and durable plastics, that mimics the function of a healthy, natural joint.

During the surgery, the damaged humeral head (the upper arm bone) is removed and replaced with a metal cap. The glenoid fossa (the socket of the shoulder) is carefully resurfaced to eliminate any arthritic bone, and a new, smooth socket component is inserted.

Once the prosthetic components are securely in place, patients can expect improved mobility and a reduction in pain, allowing them to enjoy a greater range of motion. This procedure not only helps patients regain shoulder function but also significantly enhances their ability to engage in everyday activities with less discomfort.

Why Choose Dr. Ben DuBois for Total Shoulder Replacement in San Diego?

Dr. Ben DuBois is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with years of experience specializing in shoulder surgery. His comprehensive approach combines advanced surgical techniques, state-of-the-art technology, and personalized care to ensure the best possible results for his patients.

Key reasons to trust Dr. DuBois include:

  • Expertise in Shoulder Surgery: Dr. DuBois focuses exclusively on shoulder conditions, making him one of the most sought-after specialists in the field.
  • Minimally Invasive Techniques: Whenever possible, Dr. DuBois utilizes minimally invasive approaches to reduce recovery time and improve outcomes.
  • Patient-Centered Care: He takes the time to understand your goals, concerns, and lifestyle, creating a treatment plan that aligns with your needs.
  • Proven Success Rates: His patients often report significant pain relief, increased range of motion, and improved quality of life following surgery.

The goal of total shoulder replacement is to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you regain the ability to perform everyday activities.

Schedule A Total Shoulder Replacement Consultation in San Diego, CA

Dr. Benjamin DuBois is a highly skilled shoulder surgeon based in San Diego, proudly serving patients from surrounding areas including La Jolla, Carlsbad, La Mesa, Point Loma, Alpine, Del Mar, Rancho Bernardo, Poway, Chula Vista, Coronado, and El Cajon. With specialized fellowship training in shoulder surgery, Dr. DuBois is recognized as one of the region's foremost experts in the field. He has a particular focus on shoulder replacement surgery, rotator cuff disorders, and cutting-edge treatments like ultrasound-guided platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections.

If you're seeking relief from shoulder pain or need expert guidance on shoulder care, contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. DuBois at his La Mesa office, located within the Grossmont Orthopaedic Medical Group.