Rotator Cuff Repair

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that connect the shoulder blade to the upper arm bone. These muscles and tendons work together to provide stability and mobility to the shoulder joint. Rotator cuff injuries are common, and they can occur due to repetitive movements, overuse, or acute trauma. When the rotator cuff is damaged, it can cause pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder.

Rotator cuff repair is a surgical procedure that is performed to repair a torn or damaged rotator cuff. The goal of the surgery is to reattach the torn tendon to the bone and restore normal function to the shoulder joint. The surgery is typically performed arthroscopically, which means that a small camera is inserted into the shoulder joint through a small incision. This allows the surgeon to see inside the joint and perform the repair using small instruments.

Before the surgery, the patient will undergo a thorough evaluation to determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure. This may include imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan to assess the extent of the damage to the rotator cuff. The patient will also be evaluated for any underlying medical conditions that may increase the risk of complications during surgery.

On the day of the surgery, the patient will be given anesthesia to ensure that they are comfortable during the procedure. Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the surgeon will make a small incision in the shoulder and insert the arthroscope. The surgeon will then use small instruments to reattach the torn tendon to the bone. The incision is then closed with stitches or surgical staples, and the shoulder is placed in a sling to immobilize it while it heals.

After the surgery, the patient will typically need to wear the sling for several weeks to allow the shoulder to heal properly. Physical therapy is also an important part of the recovery process, as it can help to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint and improve range of motion. The length of time required for recovery will vary depending on the extent of the injury and the patient’s overall health.
Overall, rotator cuff repair is a safe and effective procedure that can help to restore normal function to the shoulder joint. While it may take several weeks or months to fully recover from the surgery, most patients are able to return to their normal activities and enjoy improved quality of life. If you are experiencing pain, weakness, or limited range of motion in your shoulder, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine if rotator cuff repair may be right for you