Rotator Cuff Repair

• When the symptoms persist after six months of conservative management surgery is indicated.
• When a person needs the use of their arm for work
• When an athlete and an active patient seek to return to play, surgery is indicated, especially when they play overhead sports.
• When the patient has a large or full thickness tear surgery is indicated following failure of non-operative care.
• When the patient has significant shoulder weakness and loss of function
• When the tear is caused by trauma, surgery is usually indicated.

When conservative management does not provide relief, surgical intervention may be needed. The goal of surgery is to repair the torn tendon to treat pain and function loss. In some cases, when the patient has other shoulder conditions such a biceps tendon tear or AC joint arthritis, they may be able to be addressed at the same time.

• Debridement: A partial tear may be treated with a procedure called debridement, where the damaged tissue is trimmed. Debridement can be performed with arthroscopy, a minimally invasive outpatient procedure.
• Surgery is necessary to treat a full thickness tear surgery. The procedure involves reattaching the tendon to the head of the upper arm bone using bone anchors.

Surgical options include:

• Arthroscopic repair: Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique that uses small incisions and a tiny camera to visualize and repair the damaged tendon. It offers quicker recovery and less postoperative pain.
• Open Repair: This traditional approach involves making a larger incision to access the torn tendon and reattach it to the bone. Open repair is less common today due to the availability of less invasive methods.
• Mini-Open Repair: This technique combines elements of both open and arthroscopic repair. It allows the surgeon to address larger tears more effectively while still minimizing invasiveness.

Regardless of the surgical technique used, the recovery process following rotator cuff repair is standardized. Patients typically wear a sling to immobilize the shoulder for the first 4-6 weeks. Physical therapy plays a vital role in rehabilitation, helping to restore strength and range of motion. The timeline for recovery varies depending on the size of the tear, the patient’s overall health, and adherence to postoperative guidelines.

The field of orthopedics is continually evolving, and rotator cuff repair techniques have seen notable advancements in recent years. At Hyper Regen Sports Medicine we embrace these innovations to enhance outcomes and minimize patient discomfort.

• Biological Augmentation: Some surgeons are exploring the use of biologic agents such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to aid in the healing process.
• Improved Suture Materials: Advanced suture materials are now available, offering better strength and durability, which is particularly beneficial in repairing large tears.
• Personalized Medicine: Tailoring treatment plans to the individual patient’s needs and characteristics is becoming more common, optimizing surgical outcomes.

In conclusion, rotator cuff repair is a crucial procedure for individuals suffering from shoulder pain and dysfunction. Understanding the anatomy of the shoulder, the types of injuries, surgical techniques, and the recovery process is essential for both patients and healthcare providers. With ongoing advancements in the field, the future holds promise for improved outcomes and enhanced patient experiences in the realm of rotator cuff repair.

Many recent studies report that most recreational and elite athletes cuff can return to their preinjury performance level after rotator cuff repairs.