Common Shoulder Problems
Rotator Cuff Surgery
Modern surgical techniques for repair of the rotator cuff, offer many benefits for patients versus prior techniques. These benefits include; smaller incisions and tissue damage, faster rehabilitation, reduced pain and an increased rate of successful outcomes.
Rotator cuff surgery begins with Shoulder Arthroscopy to examine the shoulder and confirm the diagnosis of a torn rotator cuff . Because most rotator cuff tears are due to Impingement Syndrome , the shoulder arthroscopy will include surgery for impingement syndrome. After the shoulder arthroscopy has been completed, an incision is made to expose the torn rotator cuff.
 |
 |
The torn rotator cuff is then identified and the repair begins. The head of the humerus is prepared to receive the re-insertion of the rotator cuff by placing holes in the humerus below the tear and by grinding a small groove in the bone of the humerus to stimulate blood supply where the rotator cuff will be inserted. Sutures are then placed into the tendons of the rotator cuff.
 |
 |
The sutures in the tendon of the rotator cuff are then passed through the groove in the bone, into the humerus and out of the side. When the sutures are pulled, the edges of the rotator cuff are pulled down into the bleeding bony groove. This will allow blood to nourish the edge of the tendons to promote the healing of the tendons into the bone. The sutures are then tied down tightly to hold the repair.
 |
 |
The incision is then closed with absorbable suture then dressings and an arm sling or similar device is applied. A comprehensive program of physical therapy is begun soon after surgery. Physical therapy after surgery is very important to ensure that the repair does not receive too much stress, and to reduce the possibility of the shoulder becoming stiff and weak. It usually takes 2-3 months of physical therapy after surgery to full appreciate the increased strength and mobility that this surgery can offer.