Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement (TSA)
A shoulder replacement procedure replicating the natural ball-and-socket anatomy — for patients with advanced shoulder arthritis and a fully functioning rotator cuff.
What is Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement (TSA)?
Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement (TSA) replaces the damaged ball and socket of the shoulder with artificial components designed to replicate the natural joint anatomy. The humeral head is replaced with a metal ball and the glenoid socket with a smooth plastic component, restoring comfortable, pain-free movement. TSA is the preferred option when shoulder arthritis is advanced but the rotator cuff tendons remain intact and functioning. It is performed for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and severe cartilage damage — where the intact rotator cuff can support and power the replacement.
How the Procedure Works
Pre-operative Assessment
X-rays and CT scans evaluate joint damage and confirm rotator cuff integrity; anaesthesia is administered on the day of surgery.
Surgical Access
An incision over the shoulder exposes the joint; surrounding muscles are carefully moved aside to access the humeral head and glenoid socket.
Humeral Head Preparation
The damaged humeral head is removed and the upper arm bone is shaped to receive the metal prosthetic ball accurately.
Glenoid Socket Preparation
Worn cartilage is removed from the glenoid and the socket is reshaped to allow stable placement of the plastic socket component.
Implant Placement
The metal ball is attached to the humerus and the plastic socket to the glenoid — replicating the natural ball-and-socket anatomy of the joint.
Motion Check & Wound Closure
The shoulder is moved through its full range to confirm alignment, stability, and smooth movement; the incision is closed and the arm placed in a sling.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →Replicates the natural shoulder anatomy for smooth, balanced movement
- →Significant and lasting relief from chronic arthritis pain
- → Restores shoulder strength, stability, and functional range of motion
- → Well-established procedure with excellent long-term clinical outcomes
- →Structured physiotherapy maximises post-operative functional recovery
“Anatomic shoulder replacement is the ideal solution for patients with advanced arthritis and an intact rotator cuff. By replicating the natural anatomy of the joint, we can restore smooth, comfortable shoulder movement and give patients back the independence that arthritis has taken away.”
— Dr. Satish Reddy Gandavarapu, Senior Orthopaedic & Trauma Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Common Questions
Frequently Asked
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Vipin Reddy and get a personalised treatment plan.