Shoulder Resurfacing | Shoulder Replacement Surgery | Treatment for Shoulder Arthritis | Joint Preserving Techniques

I Have Arthritis of the Shoulder but I am too Young for Replacement Surgery. What are my options?

Dear Dr. Millett,

I have arthritis in both shoulders and experience chronic shoulder pain. I’ve had arthroscopic surgery and several other procedures to help with my shoulder conditions. I know that I am too young as of now for shoulder replacement surgery but I have heard of a technique called shoulder resurfacing as an alternative treatment for shoulder arthritis. Can you explain what this is?

Thanks,
Tommy R.

Dear Tommy,

While shoulder replacement surgery can be highly effective for patients with severe shoulder arthritis, it represents a procedure that leaves patients with little options once it is performed. Therefore, in young patients, I prefer to use other joint preserving techniques.

Shoulder resurfacing is a type of replacement that removes less bone from the humerus bone than a traditional total shoulder replacement surgery. It is useful for young patients whose arthritis is severe. We like to call this a “bone preserving shoulder replacement.”

Another option is a procedure, known as the CAM procedure (Comprehensive Arthroscopic Management) which uses a variety of arthroscopic surgical joint preserving techniques to remove loose cartilage and labral tissue and to smooth out and reshape the joint. The satisfaction rate for this surgery is high and most young athletes that have this surgery are able to return to their activities after recovery from this procedure.

I have personally developed this procedure for my younger patients where I feel shoulder replacement surgery is not yet a great option and where some form of a joint preserving technique is preferred. Studies have shown significant benefits to patients with improvements in range of motion, alleviation of pain, and dramatic improvements in function.

Peter Millett, MD

Average rating:

39 reviews

Alexandra Thompson

Mar 23, 2024

by Alexandra Thompson on Peter Millett, MD

110%

Dr. Millett and his team did a SLAP tear repair and bicep tenodesis on my left shoulder. I use my arms as an artist, and love to swim in the ocean, surf, paddle, and telemark ski. So regaining full use of my shoulder and keeping my bicep attached was very important to me. Now, over two years later, my shoulder has the equivalent range of motion as my other arm and as before the injury, and no pain. After the first three months it felt so good and was so strong that - to my horror - I completely forgot my six-month follow-up.

Not only did Dr. Millett and his team make my arm as good as new, but having had the experience of such kindness and expertise throughout the process of surgery and recovery is like an added shoulder superpower.

Thank you Rita, Brooke, Jason, Sarah, Camille, Olivia, Dr. Millett and everyone! And see you soon when my husband comes in for his knee...

Jeff Chandler

Jan 31, 2022

by Jeff Chandler on Peter Millett, MD

Flawless procedure, Easy recovery

Dr. Millet's repaired my knee and tibia, following a botched operation by a different surgeon. That procedure was virtually pain free and I was weight bearing within a few days. That was 18 years ago and the knee is still strong. A few years after the knee incident, Dr Millet repaired my shoulder. My insurance company approved me for 3 months of disability following that surgery. I was off pain medication in 2 days and had 90% range of motion within a week. I withdrew my disability claim and returned to work within two weeks of surgery. I’m not a famous athlete—just a regular guy. Nonetheless, I was treated like an NFL at the Steadman clinic. Most notable was the time for recovery. Other surgeons perform their hour-long task in the OR and don’t involve themselves in the other functions. Peter and his team manages the entire process from diagnosis, anesthesia, nursing care, and therapy. He takes a holistic approach to patient care and doesn’t skip any steps.

Jenn West

Jul 2, 2021

by Jenn West on Peter Millett, MD

Saved My Life

I went to Dr. Millett after 7 knee surgeries (6 on my right and 1 on my left) and had seen 11 different surgeons who all refused to remove femur metal from my right leg. I am highly allergic to metal and the chronic pain was leaving me bedridden for 3.5wks out of a month. He personally wrote me back on my inquiry, listened to my concerns, scheduled my surgery within a week (due to insurance issues) and personally followed up with my recovery. The level of patient care from Dr. Millett and his ENTIRE team is above any care I have ever received in my 20 years of dealing with orthopedic surgeons. There are not enough words to describe the level of care, dedication and professionalism you receive from Dr. Millett and his staff.
My only disappointment is that I did not find him sooner!!!

What is my Alternative to Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

I Have Arthritis of the Shoulder but I am too Young for Replacement Surgery. What are my options?

About the Author: Peter Millett, MD

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