If you have severe arthritis is both of your shoulders, you may be offered double shoulder replacement surgery – also called bilateral shoulder replacement.
The procedure involves removing both of the damaged shoulder joints and replacing them with artificial implants. Normally, surgery takes place a few months apart to allow use other hand whilst the operated side is recovering. In our experience, patients can sometimes be nervous about the idea of undergoing two major surgical procedures close together, but the results of double shoulder replacements are generally very good and the procedure can be life-changing, enabling patients to live a full and active life again.
The patient’s perspective
This was certainly the case for one of our patients who left us this review – along with a five-star rating – in June 2023 on I Want Great Care:
“I had a complete shoulder replacement surgery 2 years ago on my left shoulder for severe arthritis and 5 weeks ago on my right one. I have regained full range of movement on the left shoulder and expect the same on the right after physio is complete. No pain left at all! I can fully recommend Mr Ibrahim and am very grateful to have so much improved quality of life!”
The aim of this article is to explain more about double shoulder replacements, including how it works, what to expect and likely outcomes.
Who might need a double shoulder replacement?
Shoulder replacement surgery is offered if you have severe shoulder arthritis or sustain a seriously fractured shoulder. It is fairly common for arthritis to develop in both shoulders. However, it does not always occur to the same extent on each side, but when this does happen it can be debilitating. If you have a job or participate in a sport that requires repeated heavy lifting using your shoulder joints, you may be particularly susceptible.
How long after the first shoulder replacement can the second shoulder be replaced?
On average, most patients have their second shoulder replacement around eight months after their first. In the case of the patient who left us a review, the interval was around two years. It really is down to the individual and when they feel ready. Some patients are ready for their second shoulder replacement within two to three months.
In certain cases, it is possible to have both shoulders replaced simultaneously. An article published in the Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery in August 2022 reported on the results of simultaneous double shoulder replacements (referred to as simultaneous bilateral shoulder arthroplasty or SBSA) among a small cohort of 13 patients, between 2007 and 2020. The researchers found that the average length of stay in hospital was 3.3 days and no patient was readmitted within 90 days of surgery. They compared those have simultaneous shoulder replacements with patients having staged surgery and concluded that simultaneous surgery is suitable for some patients and that the results in terms of short-term safety are promising. More studies are needed to assess the long-term safety and efficacy of the procedure but, in the meantime, we see great results among patients who undergo staged surgery.
What happens during shoulder replacement surgery?
Shoulder replacement surgery entails removing damaged or diseased sections of the shoulder joint and replacing this with an artificial implant made from metal and plastic. In some cases, the implant is anatomically identical to your natural joint, however sometimes we use what is called a reverse implant. This is where the ball and socket sections are reversed, so the ball is attached to the shoulder blade rather than the upper arm bone and the socket is attached to the upper arm bone rather than the shoulder blade. In cases where there is significant damage to the rotator cuff, a reverse shoulder replacement may offer the best chances of regaining movement and functionality.
Sometimes only the head of the upper arm bone (the ball part of the joint) needs to be replaced. This is referred to as a partial shoulder replacement or hemiarthroplasty, but nowadays if usually only reserved for special circumstances.
How effective is double shoulder replacement surgery?
Shoulder replacement surgery is an effective long-term solution to the pain and loss of mobility caused by severe shoulder arthritis.
After surgery you will need to wear a comfort sling for around sixfour weeks and you may need help with everyday tasks. You will be given exercises recommended by a physiotherapist to improve strength and flexibility in your affected shoulder. In time, you should be able to resume the activities you used to enjoy and regain the use of your shoulder joint.
As you can see from our patient’s comment, shoulder replacement surgery can vastly improve your quality of life and satisfaction scores for shoulder replacement surgery tend to be high.
Of course, no surgery is without risk. Your orthopaedic surgeon will discuss the specific, but thankfully rare, risks to you but these include infection and nerve injury, possible dislocation, fracture during or after surgery and implant loosening. You will be advised of any warning signs to look out for.
Of course, no surgery is without risk. Your orthopaedic surgeon will discuss the specific risks to you but these include possible dislocation, fracture during or after surgery and implant loosening. You will be advised of any warning signs to look out for.
For more information about shoulder replacement surgery, including double shoulder replacements, contact us.
Orthopaedic Consultant & Surgeon | London
Thames Shoulder & Elbow are able to provide advice and support to anyone experiencing symptoms affecting the upper limbs (shoulder, upper arm, elbow, forearm and wrist).
Telephone: 020 376 15987
Email: admin@thamesshoulderandelbow.co.uk
Our Locations
Hospital of St John and St Elizabeth, St John’s Wood – Directions
BMI The Syon Clinic, Brentford – Directions
HCA Chiswick Medical Centre, Chiswick – Directions
West Middlesex University Hospital, Chelsea and Westminster Foundation Trust, Isleworth – Directions
