about the procedure

When a shoulder fracturefractureA disruption of the normal continuity of bone. occurs, or heals poorly, it may be time to consider surgical options. Today there are alternatives that provide painpainAn unpleasant sensation associated with actual or potential tissue damage, and mediated by specific nerve fibe... relief and freedom of movement. Over 60,000 Americans have shoulder replacement procedures each year, many experiencing reduced pain and improved function.¹ In fact, shoulder replacement is the third most common jointjointThe junction or articulation of two or more bones that permits varying degrees of motion between the bones. replacement.²

what is a shoulder fracture?

When the main arm boneboneThe hard tissue that provides structural support to the body. It is primarily composed of hydroxyapatite cryst... (humerushumerusThe bone of the arm, articulating with the scapula above and the radius and ulna below.) is broken in three or more places, a doctor may suggest shoulder replacement surgerysurgeryThe branch of medicine concerned with the treatment of disease, injury, and deformity by operation or manipula... to restore movement and reduce pain.

Humerus fractures are most often caused by a direct blow or by a fall. In the U.S., humerus fractures represent 4–5% of all fractures.³ Older persons are more likely to break bones because of osteoporosisosteoporosisWhen people age - particularly women -- there often comes a loss of height and weight, and the development of ... (thinning of the bones).

Fractures are either "displaced," meaning the fractured bone fragments have moved out of their natural alignment, or "non-displaced" if the broken pieces remain close to where they were before the injury. In non-displaced fractures, usually a sling is used to keep the shoulder from moving while the bone heals.

About 20% of shoulder fractures are displaced and may require the doctor to move the bones back into proper position. If the ball portion at the top of the arm bone is broken, split, or crushed, a shoulder replacement may be needed.

Why choose a DePuy shoulder replacement?

DePuy shoulders are designed to closely reproduce the smooth, complex movement of the natural shoulder. That‘s why each DePuy shoulder implant is based on detailed studies of the shoulder, its structure, and function. DePuy shoulders are also designed to spare as much healthy bone and tissuetissueA collection of similar cells and the intercellular substances surrounding them. as possible to help keep patients moving. And a wide array of styles and sizes allows the surgeon to select the implant that fits each patient best.

DePuy shoulders incorporate technologically advanced materials designed to resist the type of wear that typically occurs in shoulder joints. For example, Premieron^™ cross-linked polyethylene, used to replace the shoulder socket and replicate a smooth cartilagecartilageThe hard, thin layer of white glossy tissue that covers the end of bone at a joint. This tissue allows motion ... surface, reduces wear by 85% over traditional polyethylene.⁴ The less wear, the longer a new shoulder can be expected to last. However, all shoulder implants may need replacement at some point.

DePuy Global Fx Shoulder Fracture System

What are the benefits of the DePuy Global Fx Shoulder Fracture System?

• The design of the stem is small and slim, which helps preserve natural bone.
• Different stem lengths allow the surgeon to pick the one that is optimal for each patient‘s anatomy.
• The stems are marked to make it easier for the surgeon to see that the implant has been properly placed.
• Special equipment helps the surgeon align the joint properly.

what are the results with the DePuy Global Fx Shoulder Fracture System?

A recent review of various studies by Drs. John Naranja and Joseph Iannotti found that shoulder replacement surgery reduced pain in the shoulder joint in most people.^3,5 They also noted an improved range of motion in those who underwent this operation. Modular implants, like those found in the Global Fx System, had a favorable impact on the results of shoulder replacement surgery.

who is a candidate for the DePuy Global Fx shoulder?

Shoulder replacement surgery is recommended if for patients with:

• Severe shoulder pain that does not get better with other treatments
• Severe arthritisarthritisJoint inflammation that has destroyed the joint
• Severely broken bones in the joint
• Motion and function that are so limited they cause you problems in your everyday life

Shoulder replacement surgery for a fracture may be suggested for patients who would potentially have difficulty recovering from a shoulder fracture. Older patients may have more problems with slower and less permanent bone healing after fracture, so the surgeon may choose to replace the shoulder to help relieve the pain.

Note

Only an orthopaedic surgeon trained in shoulder replacement can provide advice about whether shoulder replacement surgery is right for you. See a physician to learn more. The performance of a joint replacement depends on age, weight, activity level and other factors. There are potential risks and recovery takes time. People with current infections or conditions limiting rehabilitationrehabilitationRestoration, following disease, illness, or injury, of the ability to function in a normal or near-normal mann... should not have this surgery. The most common adverse events after shoulder replacement are loosening, infection, and fracture of the implant or bone. Each patient and surgeon must weigh the benefits of surgery against potential risks.

Adverse Events

The following are the most frequent adverse events after shoulder arthroplastyarthroplastyExamination of a joint with a scope.: change in position of the components, loosening of components, dislocationdislocationDisplacement of an organ or any part; specifically disturbance or disarrangement of the normal relation of the..., infection, hematoma, pneumonia, and cardiovascular disorders.

References

¹ US Markets for Small Joint Devices. Toronto: Millennium Research Group; 2007.

² Joshi D. Total shoulder replacement—the 3rd most replaced joint in America! Available at: http://www.pearldiverinc.com/pdp/index.php Accessed on Jan. 27, 2009.

³ Inanity JP, Sider ML. Malunions of the proximalproximalNearest the center of the body. humerus: complex and revision problems in shoulder surgery. 1997;vol: 245-264.

⁴ Klotz C, Deffenbaugh DL, McNulty D, et al. Cross-Linked Glenoid ProsthesisProsthesisManufactured substitute for a diseased or missing part of the body.: A Wear Comparison to Current Glenoid Prostheses. Warsaw, IN: DePuy OrthopaedicsOrthopaedicsThe medical specialty involved in the preservation and restoration of function of the musculoskeletal system t..., Inc.; 2006. Cat. No. 0612-00-585.

⁵ Naranja RJ, Iannotti JP. Displaced three-and four-part proximal humerus fractures: evaluation and management. J AAOS. 2000;8(6):373-382.