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.
Indicated for elderly patients with rotator cuff arthropathy, massive irreparable cuff tears combined with arthritis, complex proximal humerus fractures or failed previous shoulder replacement requiring functional restoration despite cuff deficiency.
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?
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Restores overhead arm elevation despite irreparable rotator cuff loss
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Provides excellent pain relief from cuff arthropathy and complex arthritis
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Ideal solution for elderly patients with comminuted humerus fractures
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Effective revision option when previous shoulder replacement has failed
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Modern implant designs deliver reliable longevity exceeding fifteen years
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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
Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement (RTSA) Cost in Hyderabad
The cost of reverse total shoulder replacement (RTSA) in Hyderabad depends on the severity of shoulder joint damage, condition of the rotator cuff, implant requirements, complexity of surgery, investigations required, and the care needed before and after the procedure.
For patients with cuff-tear arthropathy, especially elderly patients requiring reverse shoulder replacement, the approximate cost of reverse total shoulder replacement ranges between ₹4,00,000 and ₹7,50,000.
| Procedure | Approximate Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement (RTSA) | ₹4,00,000 – ₹7,50,000 |
The final cost may vary depending on your individual condition, findings during evaluation, type of implant used, and whether any additional procedures are required.
Factors That Influence Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement (RTSA) Cost
The overall cost may depend on:
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Severity of shoulder condition: The extent of rotator cuff damage, cuff-tear arthropathy, joint degeneration, bone quality, and shoulder function may influence treatment planning.
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Pre-operative evaluation: Required investigations, clinical examination, X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and medical assessments before surgery may affect the overall cost.
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Implant and surgical requirements: The type of shoulder implant, surgical technique, bone preparation, and any additional procedures required during replacement may influence the cost.
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Hospital stay and post-operative care: The duration of admission, medicines, physiotherapy, rehabilitation plan, and follow-up requirements may influence the final estimate.
Is Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement (RTSA) Covered by Insurance?
Reverse total shoulder replacement (RTSA) may be covered by health insurance when it is performed for a medically necessary condition. Coverage depends on your insurance policy, inclusions, and approval process.
Our insurance support team can assist you with checking your policy coverage, required documentation, the cashless approval process, and insurance-related queries before the procedure.
Dr. Hitesh Bathini
Orthopaedic Surgeon
During consultation, Dr. Hitesh Bathini, Orthopaedic Surgeon in Hyderabad, will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and investigation reports to determine whether reverse total shoulder replacement is suitable for you. He will explain the procedure, expected outcomes, and guide you regarding the estimated cost based on your individual condition and treatment requirements.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Bathini Hithesh and get a personalised treatment plan.