A surgeon discussing Resurfacing Shoulder Replacement Treatment options with a patient in Florida
Treatment/Treatment Details

Resurfacing Shoulder Replacement Treatment

Resurfacing shoulder replacement caps the humeral head with a metal prosthesis, preserving bone stock while treating arthritis.

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Bone-Preserving Arthritis Treatment

Resurfacing Shoulder Replacement is a conservative surgical alternative to standard total shoulder replacement. Instead of cutting off the entire humeral head (ball of the shoulder), the surgeon simply smoothes the damaged surface and caps it with a metal prosthesis, similar to capping a tooth. This preserves the patient's natural bone stock, making it an excellent option for younger, active patients with Shoulder Arthritis or avascular necrosis who wish to maintain high activity levels.

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Who Is a Candidate?

  • Younger or highly active patients with Osteoarthritis of the shoulder
  • Individuals with Avascular Necrosis affecting the humeral head surface
  • Patients with intact rotator cuff tendons and good bone quality
  • Those wishing to preserve bone for potential future surgeries
  • Patients with shoulder deformities that make standard stems difficult to use

What Conditions does Resurfacing Shoulder Replacement Treatment Help Ease?

This procedure may help with:

Rotator Cuff TearLabral TearsShoulder ArthritisShoulder TendonitisShoulder PainShoulder Impingement
X-ray showing a shoulder resurfacing implant

The Resurfacing Technique

  1. An incision is made at the front of the shoulder
  2. The arthritic surface of the humeral head is smoothed down
  3. Minimal bone is removed compared to total replacement
  4. A metal cap is press-fit onto the reshaped humeral head
  5. If the socket (glenoid) is worn, it may be resurfaced or smoothed as well
  6. The joint is reduced and tested for smooth motion before closing

Benefits of Resurfacing Shoulder Replacement Treatment

  • Preserves natural bone stock (easier revision in the future if needed)
  • Restores smooth, pain-free joint motion
  • Replicates normal anatomy more closely than stemmed implants
  • Lower risk of fracture compared to stemmed implants
  • Ideal for high-demand, active lifestyles

Recovery and Rehab

Recovery Timeline: 3-6 Months

A sling is worn for 2-4 weeks to protect the soft tissues. Physical Therapy begins gently to prevent stiffness and progressively increases to strengthening exercises. Because the natural anatomy is preserved, patients often report a very natural feeling shoulder after recovery. Return to sports like golf or swimming is typically possible after 4-6 months.

Related Shoulder Treatments

Explore other shoulder treatment options:

Rotator Cuff Repair SurgeryShoulder ArthroscopyTotal Shoulder ReplacementReverse Shoulder ReplacementLabral Repair (Shoulder)Biceps TenodesisShoulder Instability SurgeryAcromioplasty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between resurfacing and total shoulder replacement?

Total replacement removes the entire humeral head (ball). Resurfacing simply places a smooth metal cap over the existing bone, preserving more of the patient's natural anatomy.

Who is a candidate for shoulder resurfacing?

It is ideal for young, active patients with osteoarthritis who have healthy rotator cuff tendons and good bone quality. It preserves bone for potential future surgeries.

What is the recovery timeline?

Patients wear a sling for 3 to 6 weeks. Physical therapy starts immediately to prevent stiffness. Full return to sports and heavy activity typically takes 4 to 6 months.

How long does the implant last?

Implants are durable, often lasting 15 to 20 years. If it eventually fails, it can be easily converted to a total shoulder replacement.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Shoulder pain, stiffness, or limited range of motion affecting daily life? Start your recovery with expert orthopedic care. Schedule a consultation with Mountain Spine & Orthopedics.

Locations Offering Evaluation

Our board-certified specialists offer resurfacing shoulder replacement treatment evaluation and treatment at locations across Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Schedule a consultation at a clinic near you.

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