Rotator Cuff Tears
Dr Nikhil Iyer

Surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff most often involves re-attaching the tendon to the head of humerus (upper arm bone). A partial tear, however, may need only a trimming or smoothing procedure called a debridement. A complete tear is repaired by stitching the tendon back to its original site on the humerus.

The three techniques most commonly used for rotator cuff repair.

  1. Open Repair-During an open repair, the surgeon typically removes bone spurs from the underside of the acromion. An open repair may be a good option if the tear is large or complex or if additional reconstruction, such as a tendon transfer, is indicated.
  2. All-Arthroscopic Repair-All-arthroscopic repair is usually an outpatient procedure and is the least invasive method to repair a torn rotator cuff.
  3. Mini-Open Repair-The mini-open repair uses newer technology and instruments to perform a repair through a small incision. The incision is typically 3 to 5 cm long.

After rotator cuff surgery, a small percentage of patients experience complications.

  • Nerve injury
  • Infection
  • Deltoid detachment
  • Tendon re-tear

Rehabilitation plays a vital role in getting you back to your daily activities.

  • At first, the repair needs to be protected while the tendon heals. To keep your arm from moving, you will most likely use a sling and avoid using your arm for the first 4 to 6 weeks.
  • A therapist will help you with passive exercises to improve range of motion in your shoulder.
  • Moving your muscles on your own will gradually increase your strength and improve your arm control.