Shoulder Prosthesis Surgery
Treatment at Munich Airport Clinic
The Munich Airport Clinic is a renowned specialist clinic for endoprosthetics. Our team of highly qualified orthopedic specialists and surgeons works with state-of-the-art medical technology. We specialize in shoulder prostheses and use minimally invasive surgical techniques whenever possible.
If conservative treatments for shoulder osteoarthritis (Omarthrosis) or after a severe shoulder fracture are ineffective, an artificial shoulder joint can provide relief.
When is a Shoulder Prosthesis Necessary?
A shoulder prosthesis may be necessary when severe pain and restricted mobility significantly impact daily life. The most common causes include shoulder osteoarthritis (Omarthrosis), irreparable damage to the rotator cuff, or fractures resulting from a fall. Inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis can also contribute to joint deterioration.
The need for surgical treatment depends on various factors. In cases of advanced osteoarthritis or a severely damaged shoulder joint, an artificial shoulder joint can provide relief by reducing pain and improving mobility.
ARTIFICIAL SHOULDER JOINT
What Types of Shoulder Prostheses Are Available?
Depending on the extent of shoulder joint damage, different types of shoulder prostheses are available. At Munich Airport Clinic, we use only the most advanced implants to ensure optimal treatment outcomes.
Comparison of Prosthesis Types
| Feature | Anatomic Shoulder Prosthesis | Reverse Shoulder Prosthesis | Partial Prosthesis (Hemiarthroplasty) | Fracture Prosthesis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indication | Osteoarthritis with intact rotator cuff | Irreparable rotator cuff damage | Joint wear or fracture with preserved glenoid | Complex fractures of the humeral head |
| Mobility after Surgery | Very good mobility possible | Limited rotation, but stable movement guidance | Natural mobility is largely retained | Depends on the type of fracture and rotator cuff condition |
| Load-Bearing Capacity | High load-bearing capacity, sports often possible | Limited load-bearing, avoid overhead movements | Good load-bearing capacity, depending on bone quality | Moderate load-bearing, depending on bone healing |
| Durability | 15-20 years | 10-15 years | 10-15 years | 10-15 years |
| Recommended Sports | Swimming, cycling, hiking, tennis, golf | Hiking, light swimming, cycling (avoid sudden movements) | Swimming, cycling, light strength training, Nordic walking | Swimming, cycling, light strength training (as advised) |
STEP BY STEP
Procedure of Shoulder TEP Surgery
The shoulder prosthesis surgery at Munich Airport Clinic is performed under the highest medical standards. Thanks to minimally invasive techniques, smaller incisions allow for faster healing.
Diagnosis & Preoperative Preparation
The choice of the appropriate shoulder TEP depends on the individual condition of the patient. Imaging techniques such as MRI or X-rays provide a detailed view of the joint. This also helps assess the condition of muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Surgery
The implantation of the shoulder prosthesis usually takes about 1 hour. Whenever possible, we use minimally invasive techniques, first removing damaged structures in the shoulder.
Afterward, our specialists insert either a cemented or cementless prosthesis. The procedure is always performed under general anesthesia, and patients remain in the clinic for a few days following the operation.
Pain Management & Aftercare
Immediately after the surgery, patients receive anti-inflammatory medication and a personalized pain management plan. The shoulder must be supported and protected in daily life with a specialized sling for up to 6 weeks. Nevertheless, an early return to movement is a crucial part of recovery. That’s why mobilization begins during the hospital stay.
OUR EXPERTISE
Shoulder Surgery Specialists in Munich
The Munich Airport Clinic provides optimal conditions for shoulder surgeries. The implantation of a shoulder prosthesis is performed by our experienced specialists. Thanks to modern surgical techniques and precise diagnostics, patients benefit from the best possible treatment outcomes.
AFTER SURGERY
Rehabilitation and Post-Treatment
Rehabilitation begins in the first days after a shoulder prosthesis surgery with gentle movement exercises. Targeted physiotherapy is essential for gradually restoring shoulder mobility.
1st Phase (0–2 Weeks)
2nd Phase (2–6 Weeks)
3rd Phase (6–12 Weeks)
4th Phase (from 3 Months onward)
Good to know: The inverse shoulder prosthesis requires a slightly longer adaptation period, as the muscles need to learn how to control the joint in a new way.
ADVANTAGES
Advantages of Munich Airport Clinic
Modern Equipment
Experienced Specialists
Short Waiting Times
Personalized Care
Easy Accessibility
High Hygiene Standards
Shoulder Prosthesis: Risks and Long-Term Experiences
Patients who have already undergone shoulder prosthesis surgery report significant pain reduction and improved quality of life. Limitations with a shoulder prosthesis vary individually, but daily movements are generally well restored and pain-free.
A shoulder prosthesis surgery can greatly enhance quality of life in cases of advanced osteoarthritis or post-injury conditions. At Munich Airport Clinic, we use state-of-the-art implants and minimally invasive surgical techniques to ensure a quick recovery and optimal mobility after shoulder TEP surgery.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
about Shoulder TEP
The shoulder prosthesis surgery usually takes about 1 hour. Important factors include the type of prosthesis and the patient’s condition. An anatomic shoulder prosthesis or partial prosthesis can often be implanted more quickly than an inverse shoulder prosthesis.
There is no fixed age limit for a shoulder TEP, as the decision depends on the individual condition of the joint. In general, artificial shoulder joints are recommended from the age of 60 when cartilage wear is significantly advanced.
Younger patients receive a prosthesis only if all conservative treatment options have been exhausted, as the durability of a prosthesis is limited.
Mobility with an inverse shoulder prosthesis is usually somewhat more limited compared to an anatomic shoulder prosthesis, as the natural joint mechanics are altered. Everyday movements such as eating, dressing, and writing can generally be performed without issues. However, overhead movements, heavy lifting, and sports involving rapid arm movements may be restricted.
The degree of disability (GdB) for a shoulder prosthesis depends on the individual limitations after surgery. Typically, patients receive a GdB rating between 20 and 40, but it may be higher in cases of severe movement restrictions. The final classification is determined by the relevant social welfare office.
An inverse shoulder prosthesis allows good functionality in everyday life, but its load-bearing capacity is limited. Heavy physical labor or sports that put significant pulling and pressure forces on the shoulder (e.g., tennis, weightlifting) are usually no longer possible. However, light sports such as cycling, swimming, or Nordic walking are often well manageable after rehabilitation.
Shoulder osteoarthritis surgery is advisable when conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or injections no longer provide relief, and the patient experiences persistent pain and significant movement restrictions. However, surgery should only be considered when quality of life is severely impacted, and an operative treatment is the best solution.
For shoulder osteoarthritis, various treatment options are available depending on the stage of the disease: