Partial shoulder joint replacement

A targeted approach to shoulder pain

Partial shoulder joint replacement, also known as shoulder hemiarthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which part of the upper bone in the arm is replaced with a prosthetic metal implant, while leaving the other half of the shoulder joint (the socket) intact.

This procedure is designed to restore functionality and improve the range of motion in your shoulder. Following partial shoulder joint replacement, most patients experience significant reductions in pain and enhanced shoulder performance, allowing them to return to daily activities with greater ease.

Who is a Candidate?

Patients with arthritis or damage limited to the humeral head of the shoulder, while the glenoid (socket) remains relatively healthy.

Often indicated for:

• Osteonecrosis of the humeral head
• Post-traumatic arthritis with an intact glenoid
• Certain fractures of the upper part of the humerus bone in older adults
• Patients with a functional rotator cuff are better candidates.

Not suitable if the glenoid cartilage is significantly damaged.

Recovery Timeline

May vary with provider

• Hospital stay: 1–3 days
• Early recovery: Arm is immobilised in a sling for 2–4 weeks; gentle passive movements usually begin immediately
• Rehabilitation: Gradual physiotherapy from passive to active exercises over 6–12 weeks
• Return to daily activities: 6–12 weeks
• Full recovery: 6–12 months, depending on age, healing, and rehab adherence.

Benefits

• Preserves the glenoid, removing only the damaged humeral head.
• Less invasive than total shoulder replacement.
• Relieves pain and improves shoulder function for selected patients.
• Shorter recovery and potentially fewer complications than total replacement.

Risks

• Infection or bleeding
• Nerve or blood vessel injury
• Shoulder instability or dislocation
• Wear or loosening of the prosthesis
• Persistent pain or limited motion
• May require conversion to total shoulder replacement later.

This is just an outline. Your specialist orthopaedic surgeon will be able to talk to you about these issues in more detail and make sure that there is informed consent.

Partial shoulder replacement is ideal for patients with localised humeral damage, offering pain relief and functional improvement while preserving the natural socket.