Rotator Cuff Repair

If you need a Rotator Cuff Repair, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is A Rotator Cuff Repair?

Rotator cuff repair addresses a tear or injury to the rotator cuff, a group of tendons and muscles encircling the shoulder joint. These structures stabilize the shoulder and enable its movement. Moreover, rotator cuff tears may result from acute trauma, like falls or heavy lifting, or from chronic overuse or degeneration. Additionally, the necessity of surgery depends on the tear’s severity, location, and the patient’s symptoms.

During this procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions around the shoulder to access the torn tendons. Specialized instruments are used to bring together the torn tendon edges and reattach them to the bone using sutures, anchors, or fixation devices. Additional procedures, like removing bone spurs or trimming damaged tissue, may also be conducted.

Rotator Cuff Repair Surgical Technique

The choice of surgical technique for this procedure may vary, influenced by factors like the tear’s size and location, along with the surgeon’s preference. Additionally, in open repair, a larger incision grants direct access to the rotator cuff tear, enabling the surgeon to visualize and repair the damaged tendons.

Arthroscopic repair, a minimally invasive approach, involves inserting a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments through tiny incisions. The surgeon observes the shoulder joint’s interior on a monitor and executes the repair using arthroscopic instruments.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

After this repair surgery, a rehabilitation program begins to foster healing and restore shoulder function. Moreover, physical therapy typically aids in regaining shoulder strength, range of motion, and stability through exercises, stretches, and manual therapy techniques.

Recovery duration and outcomes may vary based on factors such as tear size, surgical technique, and patient adherence to the rehabilitation plan. Following the surgeon’s post-operative instructions and attending recommended follow-up appointments are crucial.

Like any surgery, rotator cuff repair carries risks and potential complications, including infection, bleeding, stiffness, weakness, tendon re-tear, and nerve or blood vessel injury. Furthermore, consulting with an orthopedic surgeon is vital to assess your specific condition and determine the best treatment approach, which may or may not involve rotator cuff repair surgery. Considering various factors, the surgeon will devise an individualized treatment plan tailored to the tear’s characteristics and the patient’s requirements.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.