Reverse total shoulder replacement is a type of shoulder surgery. It’s often done to repair a completely torn rotator cuff with or without arthritis. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that hold the shoulder joint together.
What to tell your doctor
Before your surgery, tell your doctor:
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What medicines you take. This includes over-the-counter medicines such as ibuprofen. It also includes vitamins, herbs, and other supplements. You may need to stop taking some medicines before the procedure, such as blood thinners and aspirin.
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If you smoke. You may need to stop before your surgery. Smoking can delay healing. Talk with your doctor if you need help to stop smoking.
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If you’ve had recent changes in your health. This includes an infection or fever.
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If you are sensitive to or allergic to anything. This includes medicines, latex, tape, and anesthetic medicines.
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If you are pregnant.Also tell your doctor if you think you may be pregnant.
Getting ready for your surgery
Make sure to do the following:
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Ask a family member or friend to take you home from the hospital.
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Make plans for some help at home while you recover.
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Follow all other instructions from your doctor.
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Read the consent form and ask questions if something is not clear.
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Follow all directions you are given for not eating or drinking before your surgery.
Tests before your surgery
Before your surgery, you may need tests such as:
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Shoulder X-rays. These are done to view the bones of your shoulder.
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CT scan. This test uses a series of X-rays and a computer to show your shoulder in more detail.
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MRI. This test uses large magnets, radio waves, and a computer to see the bones, muscles, and tendons in more detail.
On the day of your surgery
Your procedure will be done by an orthopedic surgeon. This is a doctor who specializes in treating bones and muscles. They will work with a team of specialized nurses. The surgery can be done in several ways. Ask your doctor about the details of your surgery. The whole procedure may take a few hours. In general, you can expect the following:
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You will have general anesthesia, a medicine that allows you to sleep through the surgery. You won’t feel any pain during the surgery. Or you will be given medicine (sedation) to make you relaxed and sleepy during the procedure. You may be given medicine that blocks pain in the area (regional anesthesia).
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A health care provider will watch your heart rate, blood pressure, and other vital signs during the surgery.
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The surgeon will make a cut through the skin on the front or on the top of your shoulder. They will then cut through the layer of muscle beneath.
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The surgeon will remove the damaged sections of the humerus and the scapula.
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The surgeon will attach the artificial ball to your scapula with special screws. They will attach the socket to the top of the upper arm bone.
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You may have a tube in the joint to drain extra fluid and blood. This tube will be taken out later.
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The surgeon will close the muscles and skin with stitches or staples.
Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Thomas N Joseph MD
Date Last Reviewed: 05/01/2025
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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