Rotator cuff repair is a surgical procedure used to treat a torn rotator cuff tendon. Read on to learn more about this procedure and when it might be necessary. We will also talk about the types of procedures used to do the repair and the recovery period that is involved.
Are you struggling with shoulder pain and limited mobility? Discover how rotator cuff repair surgery with Brent J. Morris, MD, in Lexington, Kentucky, could help restore your quality of life. Begin your journey by learning more about our personalized treatment options and scheduling a consultation today!
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles that surround your shoulder joint and hold your upper arm bone in the shoulder socket. The rotator cuff comprises four muscles that come together as tendons. They cover the head of the humerus, connecting the upper arm bone to the shoulder blade. The rotator cuff muscles have a role in lifting and rotating your arm.
Rotator cuff repair surgery is a procedure used to treat some rotator cuff injuries. It often involves reattaching the rotator cuff tendon to the head of the upper arm bone. This is often the case when there is a complete rotator cuff tear.
The tendon is stitched back to its original location on the bone. A partial rotator cuff tear may only need trimming or smoothing in a procedure called debridement.
You may be recommended for a rotator cuff repair surgery if you have tried non-surgical treatments for a rotator cuff injury and the pain has not improved. You may also require surgery if you are active and use your arm for overhead work or sports.
Other reasons for rotator cuff repair may include the following:
Various surgical options exist for repairing rotator cuff tears. Advancements in techniques allow for less invasive procedures. The choice of repair method depends on factors such as the surgeon’s expertise, tear size, anatomy, and tissue quality.
Most repairs can be done on an outpatient basis. Common shoulder issues like biceps tendon tears, osteoarthritis, and bone spurs may also be addressed during surgery.
The three main techniques are traditional open repair, arthroscopic repair, and mini-open repair. Despite their differences, all methods are rated similarly by patients in terms of pain relief, strength improvement, and overall satisfaction.
Dr. Morris performs nearly all of his rotator cuff repairs with an all-arthroscopic or minimally invasive technique, but it is good to know all technique possibilities.
Complications following surgery are not very common but can occur. Besides complications related to surgery, such as blood loss or problems related to anesthesia, there is a risk of the following complications:
After a rotator cuff surgery, you can expect to feel some pain. For the first few weeks after surgery, you may be prescribed medications for pain. These may include opioids, muscle spasm medications, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Combining these medications can enhance pain relief while reducing reliance on opioids.
Use opioids strictly as directed by your doctor. If your pain persists beyond a few weeks post-surgery, consult your doctor.
Immobilization after surgery is necessary to protect the repair while the tendon heals. This typically involves wearing a sling and avoiding arm movement for 3 to 4 weeks, varying based on the severity of the injury.
Rehabilitation is an important part of recovery. After a period of immobilization, you will begin physical therapy to regain shoulder strength and mobility. These exercises help improve shoulder range of motion within the first 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery. These exercises involve the therapist supporting and moving your arm to different positions.
After this initial phase, you’ll progress to active exercises without therapist assistance, gradually increasing strength and arm control. By around 12 weeks, your therapist will introduce a strengthening exercise regimen.
Full recovery typically takes several months, with most patients achieving functional range of motion and strength 6 months post-surgery although recovery can sometimes take 9 to 12 months. Consistent commitment to rehabilitation is crucial for a successful outcome.
The goal of surgery is to experience improved shoulder strength and less pain following surgery for a torn rotator cuff.
Ready to take the next step towards relieving your shoulder pain and improving your quality of life? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Brent Morris today, located in Lexington, Kentucky. With expertise in rotator cuff repair surgery and a commitment to personalized care, Dr. Morris can guide you through the process and help you achieve the best possible outcome for your shoulder health.
Don’t let shoulder discomfort hold you back any longer. Contact our practice today!
Medically reviewed by Brent J. Morris, MD
Some partial tears and tendon inflammation can improve with rest, physical therapy, medications, and activity modification. Surgery is more likely to be recommended for full-thickness tears, large tears, or when pain and weakness persist despite conservative treatment.
The timing depends on the size of the tear, symptoms, and how the injury occurred. Acute tears from injury and larger tears are often better treated earlier, while chronic or degenerative tears may be monitored. Delaying surgery in certain cases can lead to tendon retraction or muscle weakness.
Many patients regain significant strength and function, but full recovery varies based on tear size, tissue quality, age, and rehabilitation commitment. Some patients may notice mild, long-term strength limitations, especially with large or complex tears.
Most patients can return to normal daily activities and many sports after recovery. However, repetitive heavy lifting or overhead strain may need to be limited to protect the repaired tendon, especially for physically demanding occupations or sports.
Not all re-tears cause symptoms or require further surgery. If pain or functional loss occurs, your surgeon will evaluate the shoulder and discuss treatment options, which may include physical therapy, injections, or additional surgery, depending on the situation.
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