Vállprotézisek

Vállprotézisek, or shoulder prostheses, are medical devices designed to replace the damaged or diseased parts of the shoulder joint. They are typically used to treat severe arthritis, significant fractures, or irreparable rotator cuff tears that cause chronic pain and limit shoulder function. The primary goal of shoulder replacement surgery is to relieve pain and restore a degree of mobility to the affected arm.

There are several types of shoulder prostheses. A total shoulder replacement involves replacing both the humeral head (the ball) and the glenoid (the socket) of the shoulder joint. A partial shoulder replacement, also known as a hemiarthroplasty, only replaces the humeral head. The choice between these depends on the specific condition of the patient's joint. Sometimes, a reverse shoulder prosthesis is used, where the ball and socket are reversed. This is often indicated for patients with severe rotator cuff deficiency, as it uses the deltoid muscle to power the arm instead of the torn rotator cuff muscles.

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. After the procedure, patients typically undergo a period of rehabilitation, including physical therapy, to regain strength and range of motion. While shoulder prostheses can significantly improve quality of life for many individuals, potential complications can include infection, blood clots, nerve damage, and loosening of the prosthesis over time. The lifespan of a shoulder prosthesis can vary, but generally ranges from 10 to 20 years.