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Shoulder

3D Planning in Shoulder Replacement

What is Shoulder Arthroplasty?

Before we explore 3D planning in shoulder arthroplasty, let’s clarify what shoulder arthroplasty is. It is a surgical procedure that replaces the damaged parts of your shoulder joint with artificial components. This surgery can relieve pain and improve the functionality of a shoulder affected by severe arthritis, extensive rotator cuff tear, or a complex fracture.

Shoulder arthroplasty can be categorized as total shoulder arthroplasty (replacement of both ball and socket of the joint) or a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (a replacement of both the ball and socket using specialized implants to account for muscle deficiencies).

Three-dimensional (3D) planning in shoulder arthroplasty is a cutting-edge approach that enhances the precision and effectiveness of the procedure. This technique uses sophisticated imaging techniques, like computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to generate a 3D model of your shoulder joint. This model assists Dr. Mayo in planning and executing your surgery with a higher level of precision than traditional methods.

The first step in 3D planning is a thorough preoperative assessment. This includes a detailed imaging study of your shoulder. Using these images, a virtual 3D model of your shoulder joint is created. This model provides Dr. Mayo with a detailed view of your shoulder anatomy, including the size, shape, and orientation of the bones, and the degree and location of any bone loss or deformities.

This personalized 3D model allows for a comprehensive evaluation of your shoulder joint, facilitating a better understanding of your unique anatomy and pathology. This in-depth knowledge enables Dr. Mayo to tailor the surgical plan to your specific needs, enhancing the likelihood of a successful outcome.

Once the 3D model of your shoulder is available, Dr. Mayo can use it for surgical planning. He can virtually perform the procedure, selecting the best implant type and size, and determining the optimal position for implant placement. By doing this, he can anticipate any potential challenges and address them proactively, reducing the likelihood of complications.

The 3D plan isn’t just for preoperative preparation; it also serves as an invaluable tool during surgery. Dr. Mayo can use the 3D model as a real-time reference, ensuring that the surgical procedure aligns with the preoperative plan. This can enhance the precision of implant placement, ultimately leading to a more natural-feeling and functioning shoulder joint post-surgery.

3D planning in shoulder arthroplasty offers several benefits over traditional surgical planning methods:

  • Personalized Surgical Plan: 3D planning allows for a highly customized surgical approach, tailored to your unique shoulder anatomy and pathology.
  • Enhanced Precision: It provides a detailed view of your shoulder joint, facilitating precise implant selection and placement.
  • Improved Outcomes: By allowing for a more accurate preoperative plan and intraoperative guidance, 3D planning can lead to improved surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction.
  • Reduced Risk of Complications: Anticipating and addressing potential challenges preoperatively can decrease the risk of complications and the need for revision surgery.

3D planning in shoulder arthroplasty is an innovative and advanced technique that aligns with Dr. Ben Mayo’s commitment to providing the best possible care to his patients. By utilizing this technique, he can offer you a surgical solution that is not just based on his extensive experience and skill, but is also personalized to your specific needs.

Schedule a shoulder consultation

If you or a loved one are suffering from shoulder arthritis, call or make an appointment online with fellowship trained shoulder surgeon Dr. Ben Mayo. As an expert in shoulder replacement, Dr. Mayo is pleased to offer state-of-the-art techniques to his patients in the Detroit area. Contact his office today to learn about how he can help you return to the activities you love. He sees athletes and patients of all ages at his offices in Sterling Heights and Livonia, and is conveniently located for patients in the surrounding suburbs such as Troy, Canton, Macomb, Farmington Hills, and Royal Oak. Please call or make an appointment online today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mayo.

At a Glance

Ben Mayo, MD

  • Fellowship Trained Sports Surgeon
  • Specializes in Minimally Invasive Arthroscopic Shoulder, Elbow, Hip, & Knee Surgery
  • Published over 50 peer-reviewed articles and 10 book chapters
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