Shoulder Replacement Surgery with Dr. Brian Butzen in Durango, Colorado
Shoulder pain can make daily life hard—whether it’s struggling to lift a bag of groceries, tossing a ball with your kids, or even just reaching for something on a shelf. For many people in Durango, Colorado, and the surrounding areas, shoulder replacement surgery has been the key to getting their lives back. At the heart of this care is Dr. Brian Butzen, a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who has specialized in shoulder, wrist, and hand care since 2013.
Dr. Butzen has helped countless patients in Durango, Farmington, Pagosa Springs, and Cortez regain their mobility and leave chronic shoulder pain behind. Patients describe him as approachable, thorough, and truly invested in their recovery. His advanced training and years of experience make him a trusted name in treating complex conditions like shoulder arthritis.
What Is Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
Shoulder replacement surgery is a procedure designed to relieve pain and improve mobility in people with severe shoulder joint damage. It’s often recommended for patients with advanced arthritis, rotator cuff tears, or traumatic injuries that haven’t responded to other treatments.
The surgery involves replacing the damaged parts of the shoulder joint with artificial components, usually made of metal and plastic. For some patients, this means a total shoulder replacement, where both the ball (humeral head) and socket (glenoid) are replaced. Others may need a reverse total shoulder replacement, which is often used for patients with severe rotator cuff damage.
Why Patients Choose Dr. Butzen for Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Dr. Brian Butzen offers a unique combination of expertise, advanced technology, and personalized care. Having practiced in Durango since 2013, he understands the needs of his community and the active lifestyles many of his patients lead. Whether it’s a skier hoping to get back to Purgatory Resort or a rancher in Cortez who needs full use of their arm, Dr. Butzen tailors his approach to each patient’s goals.
Advanced Training and Techniques
Dr. Butzen’s fellowship training focused on upper extremity trauma and conditions, microsurgical techniques, and advanced shoulder surgeries. He stays up to date with the latest advancements, including templated shoulder replacement. By using CT or MRI scans to plan implant placement, Dr. Butzen achieves precise results that lead to better outcomes for his patients.
Personalized Communication
One of the things that sets Dr. Butzen apart is his commitment to patient education. After arthroscopic shoulder surgeries, he provides patients with a custom video review of their procedure. This unique approach helps patients understand their surgery and recovery in greater detail, giving them peace of mind.
Local Expertise
Dr. Butzen’s deep roots in the Four Corners region mean he’s familiar with the challenges his patients face. He knows how important it is for residents of Durango, Farmington, Pagosa Springs, and Cortez to stay active, whether that’s through work, outdoor sports, or hobbies. His goal is always to help patients return to the activities they love.
What to Expect from Shoulder Replacement Surgery
For patients considering shoulder replacement surgery, the process begins with a thorough evaluation. Dr. Butzen will assess your shoulder, review your medical history, and discuss your goals. He’ll explain whether a total shoulder replacement or a reverse total shoulder replacement is right for you.
The Procedure
Shoulder replacement surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, Dr. Butzen replaces the damaged parts of the joint with artificial components. The surgery usually takes about two hours, and patients are monitored in the recovery area before going home or staying overnight, depending on their needs.
Recovery
Recovery from shoulder replacement surgery takes time, but most patients notice significant improvements within a few weeks. Physical therapy is a critical part of the process, helping patients regain strength and mobility in their shoulder. Dr. Butzen and his team work closely with local physical therapists to provide seamless post-operative care.
Is Shoulder Replacement Right for You?
Shoulder replacement surgery is a big decision, but it can be life-changing for patients with severe shoulder arthritis or other joint damage. Some signs that you might benefit from this procedure include:
Persistent shoulder pain that doesn’t improve with medication or therapy.
Difficulty performing everyday tasks, like dressing, driving, or cooking.
Limited range of motion in the shoulder.
A diagnosis of advanced arthritis or joint degeneration.
Success Stories from Patients in Durango and Beyond
Dr. Butzen’s patients consistently share positive experiences about their shoulder replacement surgeries. One patient from Pagosa Springs said, “I had been dealing with shoulder arthritis for years, and it was stopping me from doing the things I love, like hiking and fishing. Dr. Butzen’s care was amazing, and now I can enjoy the outdoors again without pain.”
Another patient from Farmington shared, “I was nervous about surgery, but Dr. Butzen explained everything so clearly. My recovery went smoothly, and I’m back to playing with my grandkids.”
These stories highlight the transformative impact of shoulder replacement surgery and the care patients receive from Dr. Butzen.
Serving the Four Corners Region
Dr. Brian Butzen sees patients at his main office in Durango and his satellite clinic in Pagosa Springs. This accessibility ensures that residents from all over the Four Corners region can receive expert orthopedic care without traveling far.
Whether you’re in Durango, Farmington, Cortez, or Pagosa Springs, Dr. Butzen is here to help. His team is dedicated to making the process as smooth as possible, from your initial consultation to your post-surgical recovery.
Schedule a Consultation
If shoulder pain is holding you back, it’s time to explore your options. Dr. Brian Butzen is here to provide the expert care you need to get back to the life you love. With years of experience, advanced surgical techniques, and a commitment to his community, Dr. Butzen is the trusted choice for shoulder replacement surgery in Durango, Colorado, and the surrounding areas.
Call (970) 259-3020 to schedule your consultation today, or visit Brian Butzen MD’s website for more information.
Dr. Brian Butzen is proud to serve Durango, Colorado, and the Four Corners region, offering expert care for shoulder arthritis and other orthopedic conditions.