The HSS Approach to Shoulder Replacement - Surgical Guide to Left Total Shoulder Replacement

At HSS we believe that patient and family education is a critical component of providing excellent patient care. Therefore, we designed this manual to help guide you through your shoulder replacement surgical journey from beginning to end. Its objectives are three-fold:

• To help prepare you for your surgery and hospital experience
• To align expectations related to participation in the surgical process
• To prepare you for initiating and maximizing your recovery at home

HSS performs hundreds of shoulder procedures each year. We take a team approach to manage your care. “Shoulder Teams” consisting of orthopaedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, physician assistants, registered nurses, physical therapists/occupational therapists, nutritionists and case managers. These teams are at the forefront of research, surgical techniques, nursing care and rehabilitation techniques for shoulder conditions. In an atmosphere that nurtures your well-being, your shoulder team will employ the best technological and educational strategies appropriate for your shoulder with the goal of returning to being as independent as possible, in a quick and safe manner.

This manual should help guide you through the surgical journey and rehabilitation. The information covers common conditions and shoulder replacement surgical approaches. Your treatment plan will be customized based upon your specific needs. The Team will provide additional information and reinforce key elements for you along the care pathway. However, not all patients have precisely the same conditions and needs. At HSS, each patient is treated individually. Therefore, your shoulder team may make changes or additions to this book according to your individual needs. Their changes take precedence.

You are an important member of the team. You will help achieve your optimal recovery by actively participating in your care before, during and after surgery. The long range benefit of your surgery depends very much on your commitment to continuing rehabilitation at home. We expect that you will continue to practice what your shoulder team has taught you long after your discharge.

This manual structures your participation from this moment forward. It is important that you and your family member/ support person/caregiver read this manual carefully.