Treatment / Revision / Revision Shoulder Arthroplasty

MOTION PRESERVING

REVISION | LAS VEGAS

Revision Shoulder Arthroplasty

Dr. Andrew Lee, MD | Nevada Spine Clinic, Las Vegas, Nevada

Understanding Shoulder Replacement Failure

Shoulder replacements are generally durable implants but can fail due to component loosening, rotator cuff failure, instability, infection, or periprosthetic fracture. When failure occurs, revision surgery is required to restore function and relieve pain.


Dr. Andrew Lee at Nevada Spine Clinic in Las Vegas manages complex shoulder revision cases including those referred by other surgeons.

Reasons for Shoulder Revision Surgery

  • Glenoid Component Loosening: The most common cause of anatomic total shoulder failure.
  • Rotator Cuff Failure: Tearing of the rotator cuff following anatomic replacement causes poor function.
  • Instability: Recurrent dislocation requiring revision to address component positioning.
  • Periprosthetic Joint Infection: Deep infection requiring staged surgical treatment.
  • Component Malposition: Incorrect positioning of primary components causing pain or poor function.

When Revision Is Indicated

Shoulder revision surgery is recommended when a failed replacement cannot be managed non-operatively and symptoms significantly impair quality of life. Comprehensive preoperative planning including advanced imaging guides the revision strategy.

Revision Shoulder Arthroplasty

Shoulder revision surgery addresses failed shoulder arthroplasty through removal of failed components and reconstruction appropriate to the failure mechanism. Dr. Andrew Lee performs shoulder revision cases at Southern Hills Hospital in Las Vegas.

The most common revision is conversion from a failed anatomic total shoulder to a reverse configuration, addressing both glenoid loosening and rotator cuff deficiency. Other revisions include isolated component exchange or staged treatment of periprosthetic infection.

Revision requires careful preoperative templating and intraoperative judgment to restore appropriate mechanics and shoulder function.

The primary goals of this procedure are to:
  • Remove failed components and address the cause of failure
  • Restore shoulder function and eliminate pain
  • Achieve stable durable fixation of revision components
  • Improve quality of life and daily function

Potential Risks

  • Higher complication rates than primary replacement.
  • Nerve injury from prior surgical scarring.
  • Bone loss requiring grafting or augments.
  • Elevated infection risk in revision cases.
  • Post-operative stiffness more common following revision.
  • Instability more challenging to restore in revision surgery.

Postoperative Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery following shoulder revision is longer than primary replacement. A sling is worn for four to six weeks. Physical therapy is tailored to the specific revision performed.

Most patients require six to twelve months for meaningful functional recovery.

What to Expect After Surgery

Pain relief following successful revision is typically significant. Functional recovery is more gradual and may not fully reach the level achieved with a successful primary replacement.

Regular follow-up monitors implant stability and guides rehabilitation.

Do not soak your wound.

No bathtub, swimming, or hot tub until cleared by Dr. Lee.

Wound Care and Medication Management

Wound care instructions must be followed carefully. Contact Nevada Spine Clinic immediately for any wound concerns.
Take all prescribed medications as directed.

Activity Guidelines After Surgery

Activity restrictions are individualized. Dr. Lee reviews specific guidelines at discharge and follow-up appointments.

Contact Nevada Spine Clinic or the emergency room for sudden severe pain, fever, or wound changes.

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No bathtub, swimming, or hot tub until cleared by Dr. Lee.

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Dr. Andrew Lee, MD | Nevada Spine Clinic, Las Vegas

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