Name of the Procedure:

Arthrodesis, Glenohumeral Joint
Common Names: Shoulder Fusion

Summary

Arthrodesis of the glenohumeral joint, also known as shoulder fusion, is a surgical procedure that involves permanently fusing the bones of the shoulder joint to alleviate pain and improve stability.

Purpose

The procedure addresses severe shoulder pain and instability often due to conditions such as severe arthritis, irreparable rotator cuff tears, severe trauma, or infections. The goal is to provide pain relief and a stable joint, although it sacrifices shoulder mobility.

Indications

• Severe, chronic shoulder pain unresponsive to other treatments.
• Significant joint instability.
• Advanced arthritis causing loss of function.
• Failed previous shoulder surgeries.
• Severe joint infection or trauma.
• Unresponsive rotator cuff tears.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Preoperative imaging, such as X-rays or MRI, is required for surgical planning.
• Medication adjustments may be needed, including blood thinners.
• Preoperative evaluation of overall health and anesthesia risk assessment.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered.
2. Incision: A surgical incision is made over the shoulder.
3. Preparation: Cartilage is removed from the surfaces of the humeral head and the glenoid.
4. Positioning: The bones are positioned in an optimal functional stance.
5. Fixation: Metal hardware (plates, screws, or rods) is used to hold the bones together.
6. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 2-3 hours.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital operating room.

Personnel

• Orthopedic Surgeon
• Surgical Nurse
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical Technologists

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Nerve or blood vessel damage
• Non-union or failure of the bones to fuse
• Hardware irritation or failure
• Loss of shoulder mobility

Benefits

• Significant pain relief
• Improved stability of the shoulder joint
• Enhanced ability to perform daily activities without pain

Recovery

• Hospital stay for a few days post-surgery.
• Initial immobilization in a brace or sling.
• Physical therapy starting after initial healing.
• Full recovery may take several months, with activity restrictions gradually eased.
• Regular follow-up appointments for monitoring progress.

Alternatives

• Total shoulder replacement
• Hemiarthroplasty (partial shoulder replacement)
• Physical therapy and pain management
• Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient is under general anesthesia and will not feel pain. Postoperatively, pain management includes medications and gradually decreasing immobilization. Initial discomfort and limited mobility are expected, but the long-term outcome is substantial pain relief and improved joint stability.