How do doctors repair a torn rotator cuff?
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.
Why is surgery not always needed for rotator cuff tears?
However, it is also important to understand that rotator cuff tears are incredibly common. So common that, as people age, they become expected. Therefore, having a rotator cuff tear is not a reason in and of itself to have surgery.
How long does it take to repair a torn rotator cuff?
The surgical procedure usually takes a few hours, depending on the extent of work needed to repair the torn tendons. After surgery, your arm will be placed into a sling. A sling that holds the arm slightly away from the side (an abduction sling) is generally recommended for rotator cuff repair surgery,…
What are the symptoms of a torn rotator cuff?
Four muscles make up the rotator cuff. Rotator cuff problems range from inflammation and tendonitis to partial tears to full tears of the tendon. Most people who have symptoms from a rotator cuff problem develop pain around the shoulder. Other common symptoms include weakness of the muscles and limited mobility of the joint.
What should I do if I have a rotator cuff problem?
Home care can treat many rotator cuff problems. Your doctor will tell you to rest your shoulder joint and ice the area. Over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can help ease your pain and swelling while your rotator cuff heals. Physical therapy will help restore your shoulder strength. What About Surgery?
However, it is also important to understand that rotator cuff tears are incredibly common. So common that, as people age, they become expected. Therefore, having a rotator cuff tear is not a reason in and of itself to have surgery.
What to do if you have a torn rotator cuff?
If you have a severe rotator cuff tear that can’t be mended, or if a previous repair didn’t bring relief, superior capsule reconstruction may help. Your shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint. The rotator cuff is a group of tendons and muscles that help keep the ball at the top of your upper-arm bone centered in your shoulder socket.
How is the arthroscopic repair of a rotator cuff done?
Arthroscopic repair. After making one or two very small cuts in your skin, a surgeon will insert a tiny camera called an arthroscope and special, thin tools into your shoulder. These will let him see which parts of your rotator cuff are damaged and how best to fix them. Open tendon repair.
Do you need general anesthesia for rotator cuff surgery?
Rotator Cuff Surgery: Purpose, Procedure, Risks, Recovery Most of the time, a rotator cuff problem can be treated at home. For severe cases, though, surgery may be the best treatment. Skip to main content