Total Shoulder Replacement in Hilo, HI
Severe shoulder arthritis can make it painful to reach, lift, dress, or sleep. At Peter A. Matsuura, MD., Dr. Peter A. Matsuura performs total shoulder arthroplasty in Hilo, HI to replace the damaged joint surfaces, relieve pain, and restore function. Patients benefit from advanced shoulder replacement care without the cost and stress of traveling off island.
How Total Shoulder Replacement Works
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint formed by the top of the upper arm bone (humeral head) and the shallow socket of the shoulder blade (glenoid). In total shoulder replacement, Dr. Matsuura replaces the worn ball with a metal component and resurfaces the socket with a durable plastic component. This creates smooth, comfortable movement again.
Types of Shoulder Replacement
- Anatomic total shoulder replacement recreates the shoulder’s natural anatomy and is often used for arthritis when the rotator cuff is healthy.
- Reverse total shoulder replacement switches the position of the ball and socket, allowing the deltoid muscle to power the arm. It is often used when the rotator cuff is severely torn or for certain complex fractures.
Dr. Matsuura will explain which option is best based on your exam, X-rays, and the condition of your rotator cuff.
Who May Benefit
Shoulder replacement may be recommended for patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis after an old injury, large rotator cuff tears with arthritis, or severe fractures of the upper arm. Most candidates have tried conservative care first, such as injections, activity modification, and exercises. For earlier-stage problems, arthroscopic shoulder surgery may be an option.
Recovery
After surgery, patients wear a sling for a period of time and begin a structured rehabilitation program to regain motion and strength. Many patients experience significant pain relief and can return to everyday activities, such as dressing, cooking, and light recreation, as they progress through recovery.
Dr. Matsuura also performs total hip replacement and total knee replacement. Call (808) 969-3331 to schedule a shoulder consultation or view all of our orthopaedic services.
Total Shoulder Replacement FAQs
What is total shoulder replacement?
Total shoulder replacement replaces the damaged ball and socket of the shoulder with artificial components to relieve pain and improve function.
What is a reverse shoulder replacement?
A reverse shoulder replacement switches the position of the ball and socket so the deltoid muscle can lift the arm. It is often used when the rotator cuff is badly damaged.
Am I a candidate for shoulder replacement?
You may be a candidate if you have severe shoulder arthritis or damage that causes ongoing pain and limits function despite conservative care.
How long will I wear a sling after surgery?
Most patients wear a sling for several weeks, though timing depends on the type of replacement and your recovery.
How long is recovery after shoulder replacement?
Many patients return to daily activities over several weeks, with strength and motion continuing to improve for months.
Will I need physical therapy?
Yes. A guided rehabilitation program is important for regaining motion and strength.
Can I have shoulder replacement surgery in Hilo?
Yes. Dr. Matsuura performs shoulder replacement locally through his affiliation with Hilo Medical Center.