Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Rotator cuff tears are a common cause of shoulder pain and disability, affecting individuals of all ages but particularly prevalent among athletes and older adults. These shoulder injuries can result from acute trauma or degenerative wear and tear, leading to significant discomfort and impaired shoulder function.

If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder pain or weakness, the Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville can help. Our specialized team in Zanesville, Ohio, is equipped with advanced techniques to diagnose and treat rotator cuff injuries, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care. Contact us today!

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and allow for a wide range of movements. Tears in the rotator cuff can vary in severity from partial to complete and are often caused by repetitive overhead motions, heavy lifting, or traumatic injuries.

Symptoms of a rotator cuff tear include shoulder pain, weakness, limited range of motion, and difficulty performing daily activities.

What is Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery?

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat torn rotator cuff tendons. During the surgery, a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments are inserted through tiny incisions to visualize and repair the damaged tendons. This approach offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, including smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, and a quicker recovery time.

Why Rotator Cuff Surgery May Be Necessary

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair may be necessary if conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, and steroid injections, fail to relieve symptoms. Surgery is often recommended for individuals experiencing significant pain, weakness, and functional limitations that interfere with daily activities or athletic performance. Additionally, timely surgical intervention can prevent further damage to the shoulder joint and improve overall outcomes.

Preparing for Shoulder Arthroscopy

Preparation for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair involves several steps to ensure a successful outcome:

Preoperative Evaluation: A thorough medical evaluation, including a physical examination and imaging studies (e.g., MRI or ultrasound), is performed to assess the extent of the tear and plan the surgery.
Medical Clearance: Patients may need medical clearance from their primary care physician or specialists, especially if they have underlying health conditions.
Medication Adjustments: Certain medications, such as blood thinners, may need to be temporarily discontinued before surgery.
Preoperative Instructions: Patients receive detailed instructions regarding fasting, medications, and what to expect on the day of surgery.

The Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery Procedure

On the day of the surgery, patients are typically placed under general anesthesia. The procedure involves the following steps:

Incision and Arthroscope Insertion: Small incisions are made around the shoulder, and an arthroscope is inserted to provide a clear view of the shoulder joint on a monitor.
Repairing the Tear: Specialized miniature surgical instruments are used to remove the damaged part of the rotator cuff tendon and either sew the two ends together or reattach it to the bone using sutures or anchors.
Closing the Incisions: The incisions are closed with sutures or adhesive strips, and a sterile dressing is applied.

The entire procedure usually takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity of the tear.

Postoperative Care

Postoperative care is crucial for a successful recovery:

Pain Management: Pain medications and ice packs are used to manage postoperative pain and swelling.
Immobilization: A sling or shoulder immobilizer is worn for several weeks to protect the repaired tendons.
Physical Therapy: A structured physical therapy program is initiated to restore shoulder strength, flexibility, and function. The rehabilitation process typically progresses in phases, starting with gentle passive movements and gradually advancing to active exercises.
Follow-Up Visits: Regular follow-up visits with the surgeon are scheduled to monitor healing and adjust the rehabilitation plan as needed.

Benefits and Risks of Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

We recommend that patients evaluate the benefits and risks of arthroscopic repair before opting for surgery.

Benefits of Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

The benefits of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair include the following:

Minimally Invasive: Smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery compared to open surgery.
Improved Function: Restores shoulder strength and range of motion, allowing for the resumption of daily activities and sports.
High Success Rate: Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved shoulder function following surgery.

Side Effects of Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Some of the risks of Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair include the following:

Nerve Injury: Potentially affecting the nerve activating the shoulder muscle (deltoid).
Infection: Antibiotics are given during the procedure to reduce risk. Additional surgery or prolonged antibiotic treatment may be needed if an infection develops.
Deltoid Detachment: In open repair, the deltoid muscle may be partially detached and stitched back. Protecting this area post-surgery is crucial for healing.
Stiffness: Early rehabilitation reduces the risk of permanent stiffness or motion loss, which usually improves with more aggressive therapy and exercise.
Tendon Re-Tear: There is a chance of re-tear after repairs. The risk is higher with larger tears, advanced age, smoking history, or medical problems such as diabetes. Repeat surgery is necessary only if severe pain or loss of function occurs.

Outlook

With appropriate surgical intervention and rehabilitation, most patients can expect a substantial improvement in shoulder function and a return to their normal activities. Adhering to postoperative care instructions and attending all follow-up appointments are essential for optimal outcomes.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

At Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for shoulder conditions, including arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Our experienced team is committed to helping you regain your shoulder strength and mobility.

Are you ready to take the next step toward a pain-free shoulder? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our specialized shoulder services!

Medically reviewed by Jordan R. Bonier, DO, MS

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