New Technology Makes Shoulder Replacement More Precise

By Kathy Walsh

WESTMINSTER, Colo. (CBS4)- A man from Westminster is finally feeling some pain relief now that he has a new shoulder. The replacement surgery was conducted using a new technology. It's a procedure that aims for precision.

"It was miserable, I was miserable," Don Schiel told CBS4 Health Specialist Kathy Walsh.

He called his pain unbearable.

Schiel was a teenage athlete and a stunt man in his 20s. Now at 48 years old, advanced rheumatoid arthritis has attacked every joint. His left shoulder was the worst. It was bone on bone.

"I couldn't lift a gallon of milk. I couldn't lift up anything without it popping out," said Schiel.

In February 2015, the agony finally pushed Schiel to shoulder replacement surgery.

Dr. Jonathan Bravman is an orthopedic surgeon at the University of Colorado Hospital. He specializes in sports medicine and shoulder replacement. He offered Schiel a new, computer-assisted surgery. The technology turns CT scans into 3-D images.

"(It) allows me to do essentially a virtual surgery on the computer, planning this to an absolute T", said Bravman.

He then uses a computerized model of Schiel's shoulder and a computerized model of what's called a transfer device. That device is a drilling guide in surgery. The goal is to get a more precise fit for the implant. Schiel is thrilled, " Now I pretty much can do whatever."

Schiel is a new man with the pain relief. The hope is the new surgery means a better shoulder for many years to come.

Kathy Walsh is CBS4's Weekend Anchor and Health Specialist. She has been with CBS4 for more than 30 years. She is always open to story ideas. Follow Kathy on Twitter @WalshCBS4.