St. Luke’s University Health Network has been selected to participate in a national clinical trial studying a new shoulder replacement design, becoming the only health care system in the Lehigh Valley involved in the research.
The study will evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the INHANCE™ Shoulder System by DePuy Synthes, a stemless shoulder replacement design that differs from traditional implants by eliminating the metal stem typically placed inside the arm bone. Researchers say the approach may help preserve more natural bone and reduce bone loss, which could be beneficial for patients who may require future surgeries.
St. Luke’s is one of only a small number of health care systems nationwide chosen to take part in the trial.
The study focuses on patients who require reverse total shoulder replacement due to significant rotator cuff damage and severe pain and loss of function caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis. These conditions can interfere with daily activities and significantly impact quality of life. Participation in the study is determined jointly by patients and their surgeons.
Dr. Gregory Carolan, an orthopedic surgeon with St. Luke’s Orthopedic Care, performed the first procedure using the new system in the Lehigh Valley at St. Luke’s Orthopedic Hospital at the West End Campus. DePuy Synthes invited Carolan to participate in the study based on his national reputation and experience with complex shoulder surgeries.
“We are excited to be part of this important research,” Carolan said. “The stemless design could be a big step forward in shoulder replacement because it preserves more of the patient’s natural bone, which is especially important for long-term results.”
St. Luke’s officials said participation in the study reflects the health network’s ongoing commitment to advancing orthopedic care and offering patients access to emerging medical technologies.
