Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair of Shoulder
What is Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair of Shoulder?
Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair of Shoulder in Koramangala Bangalore is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed to treat a torn or ruptured rotator cuff. The rotator cuff consists of a group of muscles and tendons that surround and support the shoulder joint, allowing you to lift and rotate your arm. The surgery is performed through small keyhole incisions using a narrow instrument called an arthroscope, which allows visualization of the inside of the joint and repair of the injury with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
What is the aim of Rotator Cuff Repair of Shoulder?
The aim of the surgery is to restore shoulder mobility and function and reduce pain caused by the rotator cuff injury.
What happens if a Rotator Cuff injury is left Untreated?
If left untreated, a rotator cuff injury can lead to progressive loss of shoulder movement, weakness, and deterioration of the shoulder joint. This can significantly affect your ability to participate in sports and daily activities.
Preparing for Rotator Cuff Repair of the Shoulder
- You must inform your doctor about your current health condition, medications, and allergies.
- You may need to undergo a physical examination and laboratory tests to ensure there are no contraindications for surgery.
- You must avoid smoking and alcohol, as these can slow down tissue healing after surgery.
- You may be asked to avoid eating or drinking anything 8 to 12 hours before the surgery.
What happens during the Rotator Cuff Repair of the Shoulder?
The surgery is usually performed under general and local anaesthesia, so you will be asleep during the procedure. Three to four small keyhole incisions are made around the shoulder, and fluid is introduced to inflate the joint, allowing insertion of the arthroscope and surgical instruments. Frayed tissue and bone fragments are removed. The torn rotator cuff tendon is then reattached to the humerus using suture anchors. Depending on the size of the tear, a double-row repair technique may be used to ensure secure fixation of the tendon. The incisions are closed with sutures, and the arm is placed in a sling. The procedure usually takes about one hour.
Recovering after Rotator Cuff Repair of the Shoulder
Recovery after Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair of Shoulder in Sarjapur Road Bangalore is generally faster than open shoulder surgery. You may take about two hours to recover from the effects of anaesthesia. Some shoulder pain or discomfort is expected, for which medications will be prescribed. Instructions will be provided on how to use and maintain the sling during daily activities. Most patients are advised to wear the sling for about three weeks. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to assess healing and guide progression to unrestricted activity.
Risks of Rotator Cuff Repair of the Shoulder
Most patients do not experience complications from this procedure.
FAQs
How does it feel to have a torn rotator cuff?
Common symptoms include:
- Pain while lifting or loading the arm
- Difficulty performing overhead activities
- Weakness while raising the arm away from the body
- Disturbed sleep
- Restricted shoulder range of motion
Can a rotator cuff tear be cured without surgery?
Many rotator cuff tears can be treated without surgery in the early stages. However, full-thickness tears often respond poorly to anti-inflammatory medications and physiotherapy.
If pain persists after 6 to 8 weeks of physiotherapy, surgical repair may be recommended.
Surgery is also advised for active individuals who perform overhead work or sports, such as swimmers and tennis players.
How is a torn rotator cuff tendon repaired?
An arthroscope is used to visualize the joint and guide repair of the torn rotator cuff tendon.
Dr Rewat uses strong suture anchors to securely attach the tendon back to the bone.
Will I have pain after rotator cuff surgery?
An ultrasound-guided nerve block is usually given before surgery to control post-operative pain. Pain-relief medications are prescribed at discharge to manage any remaining discomfort.
How successful is rotator cuff surgery?
When performed correctly and followed by structured physiotherapy, arthroscopic rotator cuff repair has excellent success rates.
What can I expect after rotator cuff surgery?
Recovery occurs in stages. For the first three weeks, the shoulder is kept in a sling to allow healing. Over the next six weeks, the focus is on restoring shoulder movement. Strengthening exercises typically begin around 7 to 8 weeks after surgery.
When can you drive after rotator cuff surgery?
- Car driving: 4 - 6 weeks
- Two wheeler: 8 - 12 weeks
What happens if the rotator cuff is not repaired?
Untreated rotator cuff tears can lead to a condition called rotator cuff arthropathy, resulting in severe pain, arthritis, and significant limitation of shoulder function.