Over 53,000 shoulder replacement surgeries are performed annually in the U.S., highlighting the rise of advanced techniques to treat shoulder conditions. For patients with chronic pain or mobility issues, innovative technology is reshaping orthopedic care.
Dr. Brian Kelly, a leading orthopedic surgeon in Pittsburgh, specializes in precision solutions for shoulder pain and injuries. Using state-of-the-art tools like ExactechGPS, Dr. Kelly creates personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether you’re considering shoulder surgery or exploring minimally invasive options, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your path to relief.
Read on to see how ExactechGPS is transforming shoulder surgery and improving patient outcomes.
Shoulder Surgery
Shoulder surgery is a highly effective option for treating conditions like rotator cuff tears, arthritis, and joint instability. Modern advancements in orthopedic surgery, including minimally invasive techniques with small incisions and innovative technologies like ExactechGPS, have revolutionized the procedure. These improvements help reduce recovery times, alleviate the need for extended pain medication, and enhance precision and outcomes.
During the procedure, the surgeon inserts instruments carefully, often using the beach chair position or semi-seated position to optimize access while protecting nearby blood vessels.
Shoulder surgeries aim to restore mobility, alleviate pain, and help patients return to daily activities with ease. While rare complications can occur, consulting with a qualified specialist is the first step in determining if surgery for your rotator cuff tendon or other shoulder issues is right for you.
How ExactechGPS Technology Works
ExactechGPS is an advanced surgical technology that provides real-time navigation during shoulder surgery, improving outcomes for conditions like rotator cuff injuries, torn labrum, and wear-and-tear arthritis. This innovative system uses GPS-like tracking to guide orthopedic surgeons with precise visualizations of the patient’s shoulder joint, including the shoulder blade, shoulder socket, and upper arm bone.
By offering enhanced accuracy and detailed intraoperative data, ExactechGPS allows for more personalized surgical treatment, such as rotator cuff repair or total shoulder replacement. This results in less pain, shorter recovery times, and better overall outcomes for patients dealing with shoulder problems or frozen shoulders.
Use in Various Shoulder Surgery Types
- Shoulder replacement: Enhances precision in typical shoulder replacement procedures, improving functionality and longevity by ensuring the upper arm bone fits perfectly into the shoulder socket.
- Arthroscopic Procedures: Provides real-time navigation for arthroscopic shoulder surgery, optimizing the use of miniature surgical instruments and minimizing damage to surrounding tissue.
Enhancing Surgical Precision
How ExactechGPS Ensures Accurate Implant Placement and Alignment
ExactechGPS uses advanced navigation technology and intraoperative data to guide orthopaedic surgeons with real-time feedback during procedures like glenohumeral joint repair or rotator cuff surgery. This system ensures implants are positioned with optimal precision and tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy.
Accurate implant replacement is vital in minimizing complications such as shoulder instability, joint wear, or the need for revision surgeries. Precision enhances the longevity of implants, decreases pain, and significantly improves long-term outcomes for patients, restoring mobility and quality of life while relieving pain.
Examples of Enhanced Surgical Techniques by ExactechGPS
- Preoperative Planning: Detailed analysis of the shoulder joint and glenoid bone using chest X-rays and blood tests to create personalized surgical strategies.
- Real-Time Feedback: Continuous intraoperative data for precise adjustments, whether during arthroscopic repair or open surgery.
- Optimized Implant Positioning: Assistance in achieving accurate alignment, ensuring a smooth fit of the ball and socket joint.
- Improved Tissue Preservation: Minimizing disruptions to inflamed tissue or loose tissue in the shoulder area to speed up recovery.
- Consistency Across Procedures: High-quality, reproducible outcomes for every patient, whether undergoing shoulder arthroscopy or labral repair.
Benefits for Surgeons and Patients
Benefits for Surgeons:
- Enhanced planning with precise data from tools like a tiny camera in arthroscopic procedures.
- Improved execution of procedures with advanced guidance, even in complex cases like torn rotator cuffs or labral tears.
- Increased confidence in achieving consistent, successful outcomes during outpatient procedures or shoulder repair surgeries.
Benefits for Patients:
- Faster recovery times post-surgery, supported by physical therapy with a physical therapist to regain mobility.
- Decreased pain and better outcomes from surgical procedures, such as rotator cuff repair or total shoulder replacement.
- Improved joint functionality and mobility, allowing patients to manage pain and feel pain relief sooner.
Whether addressing shoulder impingement, a biceps tendon injury, or complications from wear and tear arthritis, ExactechGPS ensures the surgical team can deliver effective, precise care under general anesthesia or regional anesthesia with nerve blocks to minimize discomfort.
By pairing advanced technology with surgeon expertise, patients can enjoy less pain, faster recovery, and improved quality of life.
Success Rates and Clinical Outcomes
Patient Testimonials
'Dr. Kelly treated my wife’s knee pain. He was very professional, gave her knee a thorough examination, and answered all of her questions in a friendly manner. He is also very honest since he does not recommend surgery until he pursues other options.' – Tony, March 4, 2025
'Amazing service and very thorough. I have options and a temp fix. He really understood what was wrong and helped me.' – John, March 5, 2025
Move Toward Pain-Free Mobility
Dr. Brian Kelly is dedicated to helping patients find effective, personalized solutions for joint pain and mobility issues, ensuring the best possible care and outcomes.
Don't wait to start your journey to better health. Schedule an appointment with our practice today and explore how our expert orthopedic services can help you regain your mobility and improve your quality of life. Contact us now to begin your path to feeling better!
