Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement (RTSA)
The natural ball-and-socket configuration is reversed — placing a ball on the socket and a cup on the humerus — allowing the deltoid to lift the arm even when the rotator cuff is gone.
What is Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement (RTSA)?
Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (RTSA) is a specialised shoulder replacement that ingeniously reverses the native ball-and-socket configuration. A glenosphere ball is fixed on the glenoid baseplate, while a polyethylene socket sits atop the humeral stem. This biomechanical reversal lowers the humerus, lengthens the deltoid muscle and gives it the leverage required to elevate the arm even when the rotator cuff is irreparably damaged. Dr. Hithesh performs reverse shoulder replacement in Hyderabad for elderly patients with cuff arthropathy, complex proximal humerus fractures or failed previous shoulder replacement, restoring overhead function dramatically.
How the Procedure Works
Anaesthesia & Approach
General anaesthesia with regional interscalene block; a deltopectoral approach exposes the front of the shoulder joint widely.
Glenoid Preparation
The arthritic glenoid is reamed precisely and prepared to accept the metal baseplate and prosthetic glenosphere ball component.
Glenosphere Fixation
The metaglene baseplate is fixed firmly into the glenoid using compression screws; the glenosphere ball locks securely onto it.
Humeral Implant Insertion
The proximal humerus is reamed; the humeral stem with polyethylene socket cup is implanted by press-fit or cement fixation.
Reduction & Closure
The reversed joint is reduced; stability and motion are tested intraoperatively; layered closure and early rehabilitation guide recovery.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →Restores overhead arm elevation despite irreparable rotator cuff loss
- →Provides excellent pain relief from cuff arthropathy and complex arthritis
- →Ideal solution for elderly patients with comminuted humerus fractures
- →Effective revision option when previous shoulder replacement has failed
- →Modern implant designs deliver reliable longevity exceeding fifteen years
- →Returns patients to independent living and basic recreational activities
Reverse shoulder replacement turned a previously hopeless problem into a routinely solvable one. Patients who once couldn't lift a cup of tea now reach overhead comfortably — it's one of orthopaedics' real success stories.
— — Dr. Bathini Hithesh, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Trauma & Joint Replacement Specialist, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
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