What Happens During Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery: A Step-by-Step Guide

Before the surgery begins, you'll receive anesthesia to keep you comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. Your surgeon will discuss your options with you and help you decide which type of anesthesia is best for you. You may receive general anesthesia, which puts you to sleep, or regional anesthesia, which numbs only your shoulder and arm.

Incisions

Once you're under anesthesia, your surgeon will make several small incisions in your shoulder. The number and size of the incisions will depend on the type of repair technique used and the extent of the injury. The surgeon will then insert a small camera called an arthroscope through one of the incisions to see inside your shoulder joint.

Repair Techniques

After the surgeon has a clear view inside your shoulder joint, they will use specialized instruments to repair the damaged rotator cuff. There are several different techniques that your surgeon may use, including:

1. Tendon-to-bone repair: This technique involves reattaching the torn tendon to the bone using small anchors or screws.

2. Tendon-to-tendon repair: If the tendon has torn away from the muscle, the surgeon may reattach it using sutures to anchor it back in place.

3. Graft repair: In severe cases where the tendon is severely damaged, the surgeon may use a graft to replace the damaged tissue.

Your surgeon will choose the best technique for your specific injury and anatomy.

Closure

Once the repair is complete, your surgeon will close the incisions with stitches or surgical staples. They may also apply a sterile dressing to the incisions.

Recovery

After the surgery, you'll spend some time in the recovery room before being discharged. You'll need someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first few days. You'll likely need to wear a sling to support your arm and limit movement for several weeks after surgery.

Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to care for your incisions, manage pain, and begin physical therapy. You'll need to attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon and physical therapist to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

In conclusion, rotator cuff repair surgery is a common procedure used to treat a torn rotator cuff. During the surgery, your surgeon will make small incisions, use specialized instruments to repair the damaged rotator cuff, and close the incisions with stitches or staples. Following surgery, you'll need to follow specific instructions for recovery and attend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to discuss them with your surgeon.

Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Minimally Invasive Approach

If you have a rotator cuff injury, your doctor may recommend arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery. This minimally invasive approach to surgery involves using a small camera and instruments inserted through small incisions in the shoulder to repair the damaged tendon or muscle.

Benefits of Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Compared to traditional open surgery, arthroscopic rotator cuff repair has several benefits, including:

1. Smaller incisions: The incisions used in arthroscopic surgery are much smaller than those used in traditional open surgery, which means less scarring and a faster recovery time.

2. Less pain: Because arthroscopic surgery is less invasive, there is usually less pain and discomfort after surgery.

3. Faster recovery time: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair can often be performed as an outpatient procedure, which means you can go home the same day as the surgery. Recovery time is also typically shorter than with traditional open surgery.

The Procedure

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make several small incisions in the shoulder and insert a small camera and instruments to repair the damaged tendon or muscle. The surgeon will then use sutures or anchors to reattach the tendon or muscle to the bone.

After Surgery

After arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery, you'll need to wear a sling to support your arm and limit movement while your shoulder heals. You may also experience some pain and swelling, which can be managed with medication and ice packs.

Your surgeon will likely recommend physical therapy to help you regain strength and mobility in your shoulder. It's essential to follow your physical therapist's instructions closely and attend all your scheduled appointments to ensure the best possible outcome.

Recovery

Recovering from arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery can take several months, depending on the extent of your injury and the type of surgery you had. During this time, it's crucial to follow your surgeon's and physical therapist's instructions to avoid complications and improve your recovery.

Some tips for a successful recovery include:

• Resting your shoulder as much as possible during the first few weeks

• Doing your prescribed exercises regularly to improve strength and mobility

• Avoiding activities that require lifting or reaching overhead

• Using heat and ice packs as recommended by your physical therapist

• Eating a healthy diet to promote healing and reduce inflammation

In conclusion, arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is a minimally invasive approach to treating rotator cuff injuries. Compared to traditional open surgery, it offers several benefits, including smaller incisions, less pain, and a faster recovery time. By following your surgeon's and physical therapist's instructions closely, you can ensure a successful recovery and regain strength and mobility in your shoulder.