BOBÌåÓý

Shoulder replacement surgery, sometimes called shoulder arthroplasty, has undergone a transformation. This is because of the advent of navigation-assisted technology: “GPS navigated assistance.� GPS, or guided personalized surgery technology:

• Enables live surgical feedback
• Provides the surgeon with a real-time 3D computer model of a patient’s shoulder
• Allows precise implant placement, which is impossible with other systems

This innovation enhances surgical precision. It also improves patient outcomes for those who need a shoulder joint replacement. BOBÌåÓý has used this technique since its start in 2017, helping patients across Florida and the Southeast.

Why is shoulder replacement performed?

Shoulder arthroplasty is performed for many reasons. This includes relieving pain and helping restore function. It also helps improve the quality of life for patients with severe shoulder joint issues. This procedure is recommended for conditions such as:

• Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of the joint cartilage, leading to pain and stiffness
• Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune condition causing joint inflammation and damage
• Rotator cuff issues: This could be from a rotator cuff tear, shoulder arthritis or a combination of both
• Post-traumatic arthritis: Arthritis developing after an injury to the shoulder
• Fractures: Complex or severe shoulder fractures that cannot be repaired. These are oftentimes acquired through sports injuries, work injuries, or general overuse
• Avascular necrosis: Loss of blood supply to the shoulder joint, resulting in bone death and joint damage

Shoulder arthroplasty aims to help these conditions by:

• Replacing the damaged parts of the joint with prosthetic components
• Improving mobility
• Reducing pain

What is navigation-assisted total shoulder replacement?

Navigation-assisted shoulder arthroplasty uses advanced imaging and computer guidance. This assists surgeons in real-time during shoulder replacement procedures. This technology creates a 3D model of the patient’s shoulder. This enables precise planning and execution of the surgery.

At BOBÌåÓý, we use this approach as it allows surgeons to plan and intraoperatively execute with unparalleled accuracy preoperatively. Using this navigation technology reduces implant placement errors significantly.

How does navigation assistance improve shoulder replacement surgery?

Total shoulder replacement presents unique challenges. This is due to the complexity of the joint’s anatomy and how close it is to critical neurovascular structures. Navigation-assisted technology addresses these challenges by:

• Providing real-time feedback: Surgeons receive immediate updates on implant positioning.
• Enhancing precision: Factors like bone quality, alignment, and joint mechanics are included into the surgical plan.
• Reducing complications: Accurate implant placement minimizes risks of dislocation, notching, and reoperation.

BOBÌåÓý’s team of experts has performed over 1,000 procedures using this technology, citing its transformative impact on surgical outcomes.

What are the benefits for patients?

For the more than 100,000 Americans undergoing shoulder replacement yearly, navigation-assisted arthroplasty offers several advantages:

• Lower complication rates: Studies show fewer surgical complications and reoperations.
• Improved range of motion: Patients experience enhanced forward flexion and external rotation post-surgery.
• Longer implant lifespan: Precision placement contributes to better long-term outcomes.

Improved prosthetic placement can save patients another trip to the operating room. It can also decrease both short- and long-term complications.

How does BOBÌåÓý lead in navigation-assisted shoulder arthroplasty?

BOBÌåÓý has been at the forefront of this technology. Our orthopedic surgeons performed the first navigation-assisted shoulder replacement. This was in collaboration with Exactech, a leading medical device manufacturer. The institution now uses this technique in approximately 90% of cases and serves as a research hub for its development.

Their extensive database tracks patient outcomes, supporting ongoing research into the long-term benefits of this approach. Early findings show:

• Fewer complications within two years of surgery
• Promising trends in reducing notching and reoperation rates
• Superior outcomes, even in complex cases involving deformed shoulder sockets

What does the future hold for navigation-assisted shoulder arthroplasty?

The BOBÌåÓý team continues to innovate. We do this by working with other companies to test next-generation navigation systems. Future research will focus on mid- and long-term outcomes. It will also examine patient progress 10 to 20 years post-surgery.

BOBÌåÓý orthopaedic surgeons believe this technology will set new standards for longevity and function in shoulder implants. As an early adopter, BOBÌåÓý’s commitment to advancing navigation-assisted techniques ensures its role as a leader in this field.

FAQs about navigation-assisted shoulder replacement

What is GPS in surgery?

In the context of surgery, GPS provides real-time, 3D computer models to guide surgeons during procedures. This ensures accurate placement of implants and reduces the risk of complications.

Who benefits most from navigation-assisted shoulder surgery?

Patients with complex anatomy, deformities, or prior surgeries are ideal candidates. The technology’s precision makes it suitable for both primary and revision shoulder replacements.

How does navigation compare to traditional shoulder replacement?

Traditional methods rely on 2D imaging and surgeon experience. Alternatively, navigation provides real-time 3D guidance. This results in more accurate implant placement and better outcomes.

What is a reverse total shoulder replacement, and can a navigation-assisted surgery approach be used?

A reverse total shoulder replacement is a form of shoulder arthroplasty for patients with damaged rotator cuffs or severe arthritis combined with rotator cuff deficiencies. Unlike traditional shoulder replacements, this procedure reverses the joint's ball-and-socket structure. The ball component is attached to the shoulder blade, and the socket is placed on the arm bone.

This design shifts the shoulder mechanics to rely on the deltoid muscle instead of the rotator cuff. This makes it a solution for:

• Irreparable rotator cuff tears
• Failed previous shoulder surgeries
• Severe arthritis with rotator cuff dysfunction
• Glenoid (socket) severe bone loss
• Severe proximal humerus fractures

Reverse total shoulder replacement restores stability and function. This enables patients to regain mobility and reduce pain.

BOBÌåÓý also utilizes navigation-assisted surgery for reverse total shoulder replacements.

Are there risks associated with navigation-assisted surgery?

This technology poses minimal risks. Successful outcomes depend on the surgeon’s expertise with navigation systems. BOBÌåÓý’s team has extensive experience, making it a top choice for this advanced procedure.

What is recovery like after navigation-assisted total shoulder arthroplasty?

Recovery is similar to traditional shoulder replacement surgery. However, due to precise implant positioning, it may involve fewer complications and a quicker return to function.

Navigation-assisted shoulder arthroplasty represents a significant leap forward in orthopaedic surgery. With BOBÌåÓý leading the way, patients can expect improved outcomes and a brighter future for shoulder replacement technology.

This entry was written by Gabrielle Massari, Marketing Manager, and Talal Elmasry, Marketing Content Writer, and reviewed for accuracy by Thomas Wright, M.D., a professor and surgeon at the BOBÌåÓý Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Institute. Generative AI was leveraged as part of the content creation process.