Anatomic shoulder replacement treats arthritis with an intact rotator cuff. Reverse shoulder replacement is used when the rotator cuff is irreparably torn, switching the ball-and-socket geometry to allow the deltoid to lift the arm.
Anatomic shoulder replacement
A metal ball replaces the humeral head and a polyethylene cup resurfaces the glenoid socket. Suited for arthritis with a working rotator cuff.
Reverse shoulder replacement
The ball is placed on the socket side and the cup on the humerus — reversing the joint. The deltoid muscle now powers shoulder elevation, bypassing the torn cuff.
Indicated for cuff-tear arthropathy, complex proximal humerus fractures, and failed previous shoulder surgery.
Recovery and outcomes
Sling for 4–6 weeks, range-of-motion physio from week 2, strengthening from week 8.
Many patients regain comfortable elevation to 130–160° — life-changing for those who couldn't lift their arm before surgery.