Minimally Invasive Shoulder
Replacement in Adelaide

Dr. Oscar Brumby-Rendell of Adelaide Shoulder & Upper Limb Clinic is proud to offer a cutting-edge advancement in shoulder joint replacement surgery: a refined minimally invasive technique using a remarkably small 5cm incision.

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Introducing a Next-Generation Approach: 5cm Mini-Incision Shoulder Replacement

Traditional shoulder replacement surgery typically involves larger incisions that can impact the surrounding muscle and soft tissue. Dr. Brumby-Rendell has developed a specialised 5cm mini-incision approach that achieves the same surgical goals with significantly less disruption to the surrounding structures.

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Traditional “open” approach

Minimally invasive approach

“I couldn’t believe how small the incision was!”

(patient 6 weeks post minimally invasive shoulder replacement with Dr Brumby-Rendell)

Great Benefits of this Procedure!

Benefits Fade-in

✅Less surgical trauma
✅Faster recovery
✅Reduced postoperative pain
✅Smaller, more discreet scar
✅Improved return to function

This exciting development reflects Dr. Brumby-Rendell’s commitment to innovation in upper limb surgery and his focus on outcomes that matter most to patients: function, recovery, and confidence in care.

Who can benefit from a Minimally Invasive Shoulder Joint Replacement?

Dr Brumby-Rendell is committed to using a minimally invasive technique whenever possible and has successfully applied this approach even in complex cases involving severe deformities and the need for augmented reconstructions.

Shoulder Osteoarthritis (Degenerative Joint Disease)

Osteoarthritis is the leading cause of shoulder replacement. As the protective cartilage in the joint gradually wears away, it can lead to persistent pain, stiffness, and a reduced range of motion. This condition most often affects individuals over the age of 60 and can become severely limiting as it progresses.

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Inflammatory Arthritis

Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis trigger ongoing inflammation in the joint lining, gradually damaging both cartilage and bone. This results in pain, swelling, and significant joint deformity. When medications no longer provide relief, shoulder replacement surgery can offer improved mobility and quality of life.

Rotator Cuff Arthropathy

When a large, chronic rotator cuff tear goes untreated, it can disrupt normal shoulder mechanics and lead to joint arthritis—a condition known as rotator cuff arthropathy. In such cases, a reverse shoulder replacement is often the most effective treatment option to restore function and reduce pain.

Avascular Necrosis (AVN)

Avascular necrosis (AVN) develops when the blood supply to the humeral head is compromised, leading to bone death and eventual collapse. It can result from trauma, prolonged steroid use, excessive alcohol consumption, or sometimes without a known cause. As AVN advances, shoulder replacement may become necessary to alleviate pain and improve mobility.

Proximal Humerus Fractures

Complex fractures of the upper arm bone (humerus) near the shoulder often occur in older adults with weakened bones or younger individuals following high-impact trauma. When the break is too severe to fix with plates or screws, particularly if the bone is shattered or its blood supply is damaged, shoulder replacement is often the most effective option to restore function and minimise long-term pain.