Our Summary

This study looks at the effects of joint replacement surgery on people who use wheelchairs for mobility due to neurological issues in their lower limbs. The study hypothesized that the surgery would help reduce pain, improve movement, and overall help with function and independence for these patients.

The research involved 13 joint replacements in 11 patients, with an average follow-up period of almost 34 months. The results showed that, on average, patients experienced a significant decrease in pain and an improvement in their shoulder function scores. There was also a 73% decrease in their shoulder pain scores.

Interestingly, the range of motion improved for those who had functional shoulder issues but not for those with neurological shoulder problems. Five patients ended up getting an electric wheelchair, but this didn’t significantly change the number of times they had to transfer from the wheelchair each day.

There were no signs of any issues with the joint replacements at the final check-up, but two had to be corrected: one due to a rotator cuff injury and the other due to an early infection.

In conclusion, the study found that joint replacement surgery was an effective medium-term solution for shoulder issues in wheelchair users, mainly for addressing pain, though it did require some lifestyle adaptations.

FAQs

  1. What were the main findings of the study on joint replacement surgery for wheelchair users?
  2. Did the study find any issues with the joint replacements post-surgery?
  3. Did joint replacement surgery affect the number of times patients had to transfer from their wheelchairs each day?

Doctor’s Tip

Some helpful tips a doctor might give a patient about shoulder replacement surgery include:

  1. Follow your physical therapy regimen diligently to ensure proper healing and optimal functioning of your new shoulder joint.
  2. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities that could put excessive strain on your shoulder.
  3. Be mindful of your posture and body mechanics to prevent unnecessary stress on your shoulder joint.
  4. Listen to your body and communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your healthcare provider.
  5. Attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor the progress of your shoulder replacement and address any issues that may arise.
  6. Take care of your overall health by eating a balanced diet, staying active within the limitations set by your healthcare provider, and getting adequate rest and sleep.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for shoulder replacement surgery include those with severe shoulder arthritis, rotator cuff tears, severe shoulder fractures, and other conditions that cause chronic pain, limited range of motion, and decreased function in the shoulder joint. These patients may have tried conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, and injections without success, and their symptoms are significantly impacting their quality of life and ability to perform daily activities. Additionally, patients who are in good overall health and willing to commit to post-operative rehabilitation are also good candidates for shoulder replacement surgery.

Timeline

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after shoulder replacement surgery would typically involve:

Before surgery:

  • Consultation with a doctor to assess the need for surgery
  • Preoperative tests and evaluations
  • Discussion of the procedure, risks, and recovery process
  • Preparing for surgery by following any preoperative instructions

After surgery:

  • Immediate postoperative care in the hospital, including pain management and physical therapy
  • Gradual recovery at home, with a focus on pain management and following postoperative instructions
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength, range of motion, and function in the shoulder
  • Follow-up appointments with the doctor to monitor progress and address any concerns
  • Adjustment to daily activities and lifestyle to accommodate the new shoulder joint

Overall, the goal of shoulder replacement surgery is to reduce pain, improve function, and enhance quality of life for the patient. With proper care and rehabilitation, many patients can experience significant improvements in their shoulder function and overall well-being.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with shoulder replacement surgery?
  2. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process after shoulder replacement surgery?
  3. How long can I expect the shoulder replacement to last before needing a revision surgery?
  4. Will I be able to regain full range of motion and strength in my shoulder after the surgery?
  5. How will the shoulder replacement surgery impact my daily activities and mobility, especially as a wheelchair user?
  6. Are there any specific precautions or modifications I should take post-surgery to ensure the success of the shoulder replacement?
  7. What type of physical therapy or exercises will be recommended to help with recovery and long-term shoulder function?
  8. How will the shoulder replacement surgery affect my ability to perform activities involving my upper body, such as transferring in and out of a wheelchair?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or adaptations I should consider after the surgery to maintain the longevity and function of the shoulder replacement?
  10. What are the signs or symptoms of potential complications or issues with the shoulder replacement that I should watch out for?

Reference

Authors: Chiche L, Teissier J, Gelis A, Chammas M, Laffont I, Coulet B. Journal: Orthop Traumatol Surg Res. 2022 May;108(3):103145. doi: 10.1016/j.otsr.2021.103145. Epub 2021 Nov 12. PMID: 34780996