On the following pages we would like to give you some answers to your questions about the subject of shoulder endoprosthesis. Under no circumstances can this general information substitute medical consultation and examination. It only serves to offer you suggestions and supplement discussions with your doctor. He can go into greater detail on your specific complaints and will provide you with the treatment to suit your needs.
The shoulder is a highly complex joint and it is susceptible to inflammation and injury due to overexertion. People affected complain about pain and impaired mobility in the shoulder joint, which can lead to diminished quality of life and even incapacity to work.
A shoulder prosthesis operation can usually relieve sufferers of their pain and restore some of their mobility. Only a few months after the operation patients return to their jobs, engage in sporting activities and organise their leisure time with very few limitations.
In Germany approx. 3,000 shoulder endoprostheses are implanted every year and the number is rising rapidly. Although shoulder prosthesis operations are not performed as frequently as knee or hip prosthesis surgery, the operation has become standard in specialised departments.
Nowadays there are already long-term results available concerning replacement of the shoulder joint and they document good outcomes over 10 years. Owing to state-of-the-art surgical techniques shoulder endoprostheses can nowadays remain in the body for up to 20 years or even longer.
The treatment of shoulder complaints can only be successful if the most appropriate method is used. If you want to find out how your complaints are best treated, please consult your specialist.
We wish you all the best.
Yours sincerely
The Heraeus Team
