Careers News Investors
Home Patients Products

AETOS Shoulder System for Shoulder Replacement

SHOULDER

AETOS◊ Shoulder System for Shoulder Replacement

The AETOS◊ Shoulder System is designed to relieve pain and restore function.

AETOS lifestyle image.png

Overview

The AETOS◊ Shoulder System is an implant for shoulder replacement. It’s designed to restore function by replacing the ball-and-socket construction of the shoulder joint.
AETOS product image_REVERSE replacement.png

What is the AETOS Shoulder System?

Shoulder replacement surgery is becoming more common. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, more than 100,000 people in the US have the procedure each year.1 During the procedure, a surgeon replaces the damaged parts of the shoulder joint with a new implant system.

The AETOS Shoulder System is designed for this role. It’s an innovative shoulder implant made of metal and plastic components that can be used in both types of shoulder replacement:

  • Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement
    In anatomic shoulder replacement, a metal stem is inserted at the top of the arm bone with a metal head to serve as the new ball. A matching component is implanted in the shoulder blade to serve as the new socket.


  • Reverse Shoulder Replacement
    In reverse shoulder replacement, the ball and socket are replaced, but the structure is reversed. A new ball is attached to the shoulder blade. A new socket is attached to the top of the arm bone. This reverse procedure is often done when the rotator cuff is damaged and the joint requires support from other muscles.


AETOS product image_REVERSE replacement.png

In planning for the procedure, your surgeon may use the ATLASPLAN◊ 3D Planning Software and Patient Specific Instrumentation to help customize your surgery. These technologies assist your surgeon in making a surgical plan and having surgical tools that are matched to your unique shoulder anatomy.


Is the AETOS Shoulder System right for me?

To find out if the AETOS Shoulder System is a treatment option, make an appointment with an orthopaedic surgeon. The surgeon will examine your shoulder and review your health situation in determining if shoulder replacement is recommended. Here are other things to know:

Go to Treatments to learn more about the procedure and recovery process for shoulder replacement.

Go to Treatments
SN cutout lifestyle image.png

What are the risks involved?

All surgery has risks and the potential for complications. Talk to your surgeon about any concerns you may have before you decide on treatment. Some of the possible risks and complications for shoulder replacement include:

  • Blood clotting
    Blood clotting problems – such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) – may occur after surgery and interrupt normal blood flow. Your medical team may recommend medications and exercises to reduce the risk.


  • Infection
    Infection may occur at the surgical site or elsewhere in the body. If a serious infection occurs, additional surgery or removal of the implant may be needed.


  • Pneumonia
    After surgery, pneumonia or other breathing problems may develop. Your medical team may recommend measures to reduce the risk.


  • Nerve problems
    Though uncommon, nerves or blood vessels may be damaged during surgery.


  • Long-term pain and stiffness in the shoulder
    Most patients experience pain relief after shoulder replacement, but some may continue to have pain. Similarly, some patients may develop joint stiffness. Following the recovery guidelines provided by your medical team may help reduce this risk.


  • Implant wear or failure
    The shoulder implant may become worn, loose, or damaged. It may not perform as expected. In some cases, another surgery may be needed to correct or replace the implant.


This is not a complete list of risks. In some cases, you may need additional surgery to address a complication. Talk to your surgeon about the possible risks for your specific health situation.

Disclaimers

All information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not meant as medical advice. Not everyone is a candidate for shoulder replacement with the AETOS Shoulder System, and individual results of surgery may vary. Every patient’s case is unique, and each patient should follow his or her doctor’s specific instructions. Please discuss nutrition, medication, and treatment options with your doctor to make sure you are getting the proper care for your particular situation. If you are seeking this information in an emergency, please call 911 and seek emergency help.

◊Trademark of Smith+Nephew. 46954 4/2025

Citations

*By reducing over-tensioning compared to an onlay design

  1. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Accessed Feb 26, 2025. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/treatment/shoulder-joint-replacement.
  2. Smith+Nephew 2023. AETOS Inlay Design Features. Internal Report. ER-04-0990-0017.
  3. Harmer L, Throckmorton T, Sperling JW. Total shoulder arthroplasty: are the humeral components getting shorter? Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med. 2016;9(1):17-22.

Title

Text

Explore