Rotator Cuff Tear Surgery

Nearly 50% of the patients with rotator cuff tear do not need surgery. Rotator cuff tear surgery is a last resort treatment method. When non-surgical methods of treatment fail rotator cuff tear surgery is done on the patient.

A rotator cuff MRI or magnetic resonance anthography determines the extent of tear. There are three methods of rotator cuff tear surgery: open surgery, mini-open method, and arthroscopic surgery. Open surgery is an old method whereas mini-open as well as arthroscopic surgery are newer methods of surgery. ..

The patient is administered general anesthesia or local anesthesia before surgery is done. The open surgery is suitable for long rotator cuff tears. A big incision usually measuring 6-10 centimeters is done in the shoulder muscles to reach the tendon. The tendon is repaired and the incision is stitched. This procedure involves considerable pain.

In the mini-open method a small incision is made and a camera is used to view the torn tendon. Repair is carried out by viewing the torn tendon on a television monitor. In the arthroscopic method many small incisions are made and the camera is inserted through them to carry out repair. The last two methods of rotator cuff tear surgery are less invasive and hence are being preferred frequently.

Rotator cuff tear surgery is followed by complete rest of a few weeks when the shoulder may be put in a sling. All shoulder and arm related activities will be restricted during this period. After a week or two the doctor will advise for physiotherapy sessions.

Initially the session will be very gentle with light arm and shoulder movements. After four-six weeks the intensity of physiotherapy may increase a little. After another few weeks the patient will be encouraged to do a number of exercises and lift light weights. The entire recovery process may take four-six months after rotator cuff tear surgery.

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