First U.S. Surgery Using New Shoulder Implant Performed in Ohio

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Jun 13, 2013, 11:50 ET

CHILLICOTHE, Ohio, June 13, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr. Brian S. Cohen, of Adena Health System in Chillicothe, OH became the first U.S. surgeon to install a new, state-of-the-art reverse shoulder implant this week. The Arthrex Reverse Universe device was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on May 31, 2013. Dr. Cohen performed the procedure on a 72-year old man during a live, international surgery simulcast to Germany and sites across the United States.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130613/DC31665-a)

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130613/DC31665-b)

A respected orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Cohen also teaches surgical orthopaedic techniques to other physicians across the nation. In addition, he worked with Arthrex in the design of its new implant. "When I first saw the Arthrex Reverse Universe about five years ago, there were certain things that I felt – from doing the procedure – that were missing from the implant which were essential," said Dr. Cohen. "Some of those changes have been implemented."

The new device is more cost effective, and uses technology not previously available in reverse shoulder implants. This technology is expected to provide a better, longer lasting bond over time. Of his contributions, Dr. Cohen added, "It is nice when people take stock in what you believe is important in helping your patients have a successful outcome, and then to implement them into a prosthesis."

Reverse shoulder implant surgery is intended to replace the ball and socket of the rotator cuff, giving the patient better range of motion. Following reverse shoulder implant surgery, the part of the human shoulder which once held the socket now holds the ball and vice versa. By reversing the components of the shoulder, the patient's mobility is greatly improved and most often leads to a better quality of life after surgery.

According to Dr. Cohen, the patient suffered a torn rotator cuff injury several years ago and had an extensive course of traditional treatments for pain and mobility. Over time, the tear evolved to the point it had become debilitating and impacted his quality of life. Reverse shoulder implant surgery is often necessary when a patient suffers a rotator cuff injury or joint degeneration.

Adena Health System is based in Chillicothe, OH (about 40 miles south of Columbus). Adena includes three hospitals, six regional clinics and ambulatory sites located throughout the southern Ohio region. To learn more about Adena's orthopaedic services visit www.adena.org/ortho.

Visit www.adena.org and click on "Media & Events" to view additional news releases.

Adena Health System is an independent, not-for-profit and locally controlled healthcare organization serving the needs of patients in 12 south-central Ohio counties. With 2,500 employees, Adena provides specialty services typically found in larger medical centers, including: da Vinci® robotic surgery, open heart surgery, cardiac catheterization, cancer care and advanced orthopedic procedures. Based in Chillicothe, OH, Adena includes three hospitals, six regional clinics and ambulatory sites located throughout the region.

SOURCE Adena Health System