Outpatient Shoulder Replacement Surgery: What to Expect

You’ve accepted the fact that your shoulder is beyond the reach of conservative treatment, and surgery is your only viable path toward a pain-free life. Still, the threat of extensive recovery and sky-rocketing hospital bills looms — unless you come to Dr. Nikhil Pandhi for treatment. 

We know how daunting a traditional inpatient procedure can be, especially when replacing a large joint like your shoulder. That’s why we’re proud to offer our patients a cost-effective, more efficient surgical option that doesn’t compromise results. 

Here’s a closer look at outpatient shoulder replacement surgery. 

Are you sure I need surgery?

We understand that joint replacement surgery is everyone’s last resort, but sometimes, it’s the only way to be free of shoulder pain. 

We recommend surgery when you experience the following:

• Shoulder weakness
• Persistent pain
• Limited range of motion
• Trouble sleeping 
• Difficulty performing basic tasks

You’re also a candidate for surgery if you’ve tried conservative techniques with little or no relief. 

But don’t panic if you’re headed for the operating room — outpatient joint replacement surgery expedites every part of the process. 

The ins and outs of outpatient shoulder replacement surgery

To ensure you’re a candidate for an outpatient procedure, we first thoroughly review your shoulder joint to determine the extent of the damage. Dr. Pandhi performs outpatient shoulder replacement surgeries in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC).

We use minimally invasive techniques, such as arthroscopy and robotic joint replacement, to quickly and discreetly repair damage and rebuild components of your joint. 

Arthroscopic surgery

With arthroscopic surgery, we create tiny incisions, allowing a thin tube with a camera attached to the end to navigate your shoulder joint. With detailed, real-time images of your joint, Dr. Pandhi deftly rebuilds your damaged joint with durable implants. 

Robotic joint surgery

Our advanced robotic joint surgery system lets us map out your entire surgery before making an incision. The Mako SmartRobotics™ system uses computed tomography (CT) scans to generate a 3D model of your shoulder. 

Dr. Pandhi uses those scans and the Mako software to plan and execute your surgery. Like arthroscopic surgery, we only need small incisions and small surgical tools to repair and rebuild your joint. 

Why outpatient joint replacement?

The main benefit of outpatient procedures is returning home the same day as your surgery. Without an overnight hospital stay, you can recuperate in the comfort of your own home and avoid costly hospital bills. 

Thanks to minimally invasive techniques, outpatient surgery has the following perks:

• Lower risk of infection
• Less pain
• Smaller incisions
• Less noticeable scars
• Shorter recovery time

Don’t let the fear of extensive, invasive surgeries keep you from getting the care you need. Dr. Pandhi and our team are standing by to help you navigate all your options. To see if you’re a candidate for outpatient joint replacement, call or click to schedule a consultation with Dr. Pandhi today.