Rotator cuff repair is a surgical procedure used to treat a torn rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and allow for a wider range of motion. This injury is common in athletes, manual laborers and the elderly due to wear and tear or severe injury. Below is an overview of the process, recovery and key considerations:
Types of Tears
- Partial Tear: The tendon is ruptured or damaged, but not completely severed.
- Full-Thickness Tear: The tendon is completely severed or pulled from the bone.
Indications for Surgery
Surgery is typically recommended if:
- The tear is large or full-thickness.
- Non-surgical treatments (physical therapy, medications, injections) fail to relieve symptoms.
- There is significant weakness, pain, or loss of function.
- The patient is active and wants to regain full shoulder function.
Surgical Options
1) Arthroscopic Repair (Minimally invasive)
- Small incisions are made, and a camera (arthroscope) is used to make the repair.
- Usually results in less pain and faster recovery.
2) Open Repair
- A large incision is made to directly access the tendon.
- Used for large or complex tears.
3) Mini-Open Repair
- Combines arthroscopic techniques with a small open incision.
4) Tendon Transfer or Graft
- In cases where the rotator cuff cannot be repaired, a ligament from another location can be used.
Procedure
- The torn ligament is attached to the bone using sutures and anchors.
- In some cases, additional procedures (eg, bone spur removal) may be performed.
Recovery
1) Immediate Post-Surgery
- The arm is placed in a sling to immobilize the shoulder for 4-6 weeks.
- Pain management with medications.
2) Rehabilitation
- Passive Range of Motion (Weeks 1–6): The physical therapist moves the shoulder to prevent stiffness.
- Active-Assisted Range of Motion (Weeks 6–12): Gradual use of muscles with assistance.
- Strengthening (Weeks 12+): Exercises to restore strength and function.
3) Full Recovery
- Can take 4–6 months, and for athletes, up to 1 year.
Potential Risks
- Infection.
- Shoulder stiffness or loss of motion.
- Re-tear of the repaired tendon.
- Nerve damage.