Fixing Broken Shoulders in Older Adults

The European Society for Trauma and Emergency Surgery has a group that focuses on bone injuries and sports-related harm. This group has come together to agree on the best ways to treat shoulder injuries in older adults. They have shared their thoughts in a set of guidelines. These guidelines talk about different ways to fix these injuries. Some methods are non-surgical, while others involve surgery. The surgical options include four main types: ORIF, nailing, and two types of shoulder replacements. These replacements are called hemi and total reverse arthroplasty. This piece will talk about these two types of shoulder replacements. Shoulder replacements have become a go-to solution for complicated shoulder injuries in older adults. They help restore movement, reduce pain, and offer long-lasting results. However, there are some issues with these replacements, like problems with the implants and the need for skilled surgeons. But as technology gets better, these issues are becoming less of a problem. With more older adults experiencing these injuries, shoulder replacements will likely become even more important. They can help maintain a good quality of life for this age group. In the past, treating shoulder injuries in older adults was more straightforward. Doctors often chose non-surgical methods. But as people live longer and stay active, these injuries have become more complex. This has led to the development of new surgical techniques. One of these techniques is reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. It is a type of shoulder replacement that has shown promising results. It can help older adults regain their mobility and reduce pain. However, it is not without its challenges. The success of the surgery depends on the skill of the surgeon and the quality of the implant. But with advancements in technology, these challenges are being overcome. The future looks bright for this type of surgery. It could become a standard treatment for complex shoulder injuries in older adults. There are different types of shoulder replacements available. The choice of replacement depends on the type and severity of the injury. Hemiarthroplasty replaces only the ball part of the shoulder joint. Total reverse arthroplasty replaces both the ball and the socket. The decision to use one type over the other depends on several factors. These include the patient's age, overall health, and the extent of the injury. The goal is to choose the type that will provide the best outcome for the patient. The guidelines also talk about the importance of a multidisciplinary approach. This means involving different healthcare professionals in the treatment process. It can lead to better outcomes for the patient. The guidelines also highlight the importance of patient education. Older adults need to understand their treatment options. They should know the benefits and risks of each option. This will help them make informed decisions about their care. It is also important for them to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery. They should understand that while the surgery can improve their quality of life, it may not completely restore their shoulder function. The guidelines also emphasize the need for ongoing research. As the population ages, there will be a greater demand for effective treatments for shoulder injuries. Research can help develop new and better treatments. It can also help improve the existing ones.