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Shoulder Reconstruction Surgery

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Shoulder Reconstruction in Colorado Springs, CO

Shoulder reconstruction in Colorado Springs, CO may be recommended for patients with significant shoulder instability, recurrent dislocations, or injuries involving the labrum, ligaments, capsule, or other structures that help stabilize the shoulder joint. When these supporting tissues are stretched or torn, the shoulder may repeatedly slip out of position, causing pain, weakness, reduced function, or a feeling of instability.

Dr. John C. Redfern, MD, provides orthopaedic evaluation and treatment for patients in the Colorado Springs area with shoulder instability and related injuries. Treatment recommendations are based on the underlying cause of instability, the severity of the injury, previous dislocations or subluxations, activity level, and response to nonsurgical care.

When conservative treatments do not adequately improve shoulder instability, shoulder reconstruction surgery may be considered. Depending on the patient's condition, reconstruction may be performed arthroscopically using small incisions and specialized instruments to repair damaged soft tissues and restore shoulder stability. An individualized orthopaedic evaluation can help determine whether shoulder reconstruction is appropriate and which treatment approach best addresses the patient's needs.

Shoulder Reconstruction Surgery - Educational Picture

What is Shoulder Reconstruction Surgery?

Shoulder reconstruction surgery is an operative procedure in which stretched or torn soft-tissue structures that surround the shoulder joint such as the capsule, ligaments, and cartilage, are repaired to secure the shoulder joint in place. The procedure is mainly employed for the treatment of individuals with shoulder instability, to prevent recurrent joint dislocations, and to restore normal shoulder range of motion and function.

Shoulder instability is a chronic condition that causes the frequent dislocation of the shoulder joint. This occurs when the structures surrounding the shoulder joint are unable to retain the upper end of the humerus (ball portion) in the glenoid (socket portion) of the shoulder due to an injury or tear. A partial dislocation is referred to as a subluxation, while a complete separation is a dislocation. The repeated dislocation of the humerus out of its socket is called chronic shoulder instability. A tear in the labrum or rotator cuff and ligament tear in the front of the shoulder (a Bankart lesion) may lead to repeated shoulder dislocations.

What is Shoulder Anatomy?

The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint, where the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) articulates with the socket of the scapula (shoulder blade), called the glenoid. The two articulating surfaces of the bones are covered with cartilage, which prevents friction between the moving bones, and enables smooth movement. Tendons and ligaments around the shoulder joint provide strength and stability to the joint. The joint is stabilized by the labrum, a cartilaginous rim of the glenoid cavity, and the capsule, a series of ligaments that enclose the joint. Injury and trauma can tear or stretch the labrum and/or ligaments, causing instability and dislocation of the joint.

What are the Indications for Shoulder Reconstruction Surgery?

If non-surgical remedies such as prescription medications, physical or occupational therapy, immobilization, and closed reduction or manipulation fail to relieve shoulder instability, your surgeon may recommend shoulder reconstruction surgery.

What is the Procedure for Shoulder Reconstruction Surgery?

Shoulder reconstruction surgery is usually performed arthroscopically with small incisions and tiny surgical instruments.

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure and is performed through tiny incisions (portals), about a half-inch in length, made around the joint area. Through one of the incisions, an arthroscope (a small fiber-optic viewing instrument) is passed. A camera attached to the arthroscope displays the images of the inside of the joint on a monitor, which allows your surgeon to view the cartilage, ligaments, and rotator cuff while performing the procedure. A sterile saline solution is pumped into the joint, which expands it and provides a clearer view. Bone spurs, defects, or tissue tears will be identified.

Your surgeon makes use of tiny surgical instruments that are passed through the other incisions to treat the condition. The torn or stretched soft-tissue structures around the shoulder joint such as ligaments or the labrum will be sutured or stapled. The sutures are held in place with help of a small anchor that is drilled into the upper part of the humerus. Further, a thermal shrinkage device may be used in order to tighten the ligaments and prevent instability. Upon completion, the scope and instruments are withdrawn, and the incisions are closed and bandaged.

What Does Postoperative Care for Shoulder Reconstruction Surgery Involve?

In general, postoperative care instructions and recovery after shoulder reconstruction surgery will involve the following steps:

  • You will be transferred to the recovery area where your nurse will closely observe you for any allergic/anesthetic reactions and monitor your vital signs as you recover.
  • You may need to stay in the hospital for a day or two before discharge.
  • You may notice pain, swelling, and discomfort in the shoulder area. Pain and anti-inflammatory medications, as well as the application of ice packs are recommended as needed.
  • Your arm will be secured with assistive devices such as a sling for 4 to 6 weeks to facilitate healing with instructions on restricted weight-bearing.
  • Keep the surgical site clean and dry. Instructions on surgical site care and bathing will be provided.
  • Refrain from smoking as it can hinder the healing process.
  • Refrain from strenuous activities for the first few months and lifting heavy weights for at least 6 months. Gradual increase in activities over a period of time is recommended.
  • An individualized physical therapy protocol will be designed to help strengthen shoulder muscles and optimize shoulder function.
  • Most patients are able to resume their normal activities in a month or two after surgery; however, a return to sports may take 6 to 12 months.
  • Refrain from driving until you are fully fit and receive your doctor’s consent.
  • Periodic follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress.

What are the Risks and Complications of Shoulder Reconstruction Surgery?

Shoulder reconstruction surgery is a relatively safe procedure; however, as with any surgery, some risks and complications may occur, such as the following:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Anesthetic/allergic reactions
  • Injury to nerves and blood vessels
  • Blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
  • Pain/swelling
  • Stiffness or restricted motion
  • Muscle weakness
  • Recurrence of instability
  • Failure of the reconstruction

Why Choose Dr. John C. Redfern for Shoulder Reconstruction in Colorado Springs?

Shoulder instability and recurrent dislocations can affect your ability to work, exercise, participate in sports, and perform everyday activities. Dr. John C. Redfern, MD provides orthopaedic evaluation and treatment for patients in Colorado Springs, COlorado, with shoulder injuries and conditions that may require reconstructive treatment.

A comprehensive evaluation can help identify the structures contributing to shoulder instability and determine whether nonsurgical care or surgery is appropriate. Depending on the injury, shoulder reconstruction may address damaged or stretched ligaments, the labrum, or other soft tissues that contribute to shoulder stability.

When surgery is recommended, the goal of shoulder reconstruction is to restore stability and function while helping reduce the risk of recurrent dislocation. Dr. Redfern can evaluate your symptoms, injury history, previous treatment, and activity goals to develop an individualized treatment plan.

Shoulder Reconstruction FAQs

Shoulder reconstruction surgery repairs or restores damaged soft-tissue structures that help stabilize the shoulder joint. Depending on the underlying injury, the procedure may address the labrum, ligaments, joint capsule, or other structures involved in shoulder instability.
Shoulder reconstruction may be considered when a patient has recurrent shoulder dislocations or instability that does not improve with appropriate nonsurgical treatment. Significant damage to the structures supporting the shoulder may also make reconstructive surgery appropriate.
Shoulder instability can occur after an injury or traumatic dislocation that damages the structures supporting the joint. Labral tears, ligament injuries, and stretching or tearing of the joint capsule can contribute to recurrent shoulder instability.
In appropriate cases, shoulder reconstruction can be performed arthroscopically. Arthroscopy uses a small camera and specialized instruments inserted through small incisions to visualize and repair damaged structures within the shoulder joint.
The specific procedure depends on the patient's injury. During arthroscopic reconstruction, the surgeon evaluates the inside of the shoulder joint and uses specialized instruments to repair or reattach damaged soft tissues. Sutures and small anchors may be used to secure repaired tissues.
Recovery varies depending on the extent of the injury, the reconstruction performed, and individual healing. A sling may be required during the early stages of recovery, followed by a structured rehabilitation program. Returning to sports and strenuous activities may take several months.
Physical therapy is commonly an important part of recovery following shoulder reconstruction. Rehabilitation can help gradually restore range of motion, shoulder strength, stability, and function while protecting the healing tissues.
Many patients can eventually return to sports following successful rehabilitation, but the timing depends on the procedure, healing, strength, range of motion, and type of sport. Your orthopaedic surgeon will determine when it is appropriate to progress to more demanding activities.
No. Shoulder reconstruction generally refers to repairing or restoring damaged tissues that stabilize the shoulder joint, such as the labrum, ligaments, or capsule. Shoulder replacement involves replacing damaged portions of the joint with prosthetic components. The appropriate procedure depends on the underlying condition.
Consider an orthopaedic evaluation if you experience repeated shoulder dislocations or subluxations, persistent instability, shoulder pain, weakness, or difficulty performing normal activities after a shoulder injury. An evaluation can help determine the cause of your symptoms and whether surgical or nonsurgical treatment may be appropriate.

Schedule a Shoulder Reconstruction Consultation in Colorado Springs

Persistent shoulder instability and recurrent dislocations can interfere with daily life and physical activity. Dr. John C. Redfern, MD provides orthopaedic care for patients in Colorado Springs, CO, including evaluation and treatment for shoulder instability and injuries that may require shoulder reconstruction.

If you have experienced recurrent shoulder dislocations, have been diagnosed with damage to the labrum or shoulder ligaments, or continue to experience instability despite conservative treatment, schedule an orthopaedic consultation to discuss your condition and treatment options.

Contact Dr. John C. Redfern in Colorado Springs to learn more about shoulder reconstruction and take the next step toward restoring shoulder stability and function.

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