Shoulder joint replacement is a surgical procedure performed with the goal of removing a damaged part of the shoulder joint and replacing it with an artificial prosthesis. The procedure can either be partial or total. A shoulder replacement may be required as a result of factors including:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis whereby the inflammation has led to injury, loss of cartilage, stiffness and pain
• Breaking down of cartilage in the shoulder joint as a result of osteoarthritis
• Rotator cuff tear
• Post-traumatic arthritis
• Acute fracture
• Osteonecrosis