Treatments

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to treat a torn rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder and facilitate its movement. Tears in the rotator cuff can occur due to acute injuries, repetitive strain, or degeneration with age. During the procedure, the surgeon uses a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments to visualize and repair the damaged tendons through small incisions. This method offers advantages like less pain, faster recovery, and minimal scarring compared to open surgery.

Indications

• Persistent shoulder pain not responding to conservative treatments like physical therapy or medications.
• Weakness or inability to lift the arm.
• Full-thickness rotator cuff tears or significant partial tears.

Procedure

• Performed under general anesthesia or regional nerve block.
• Small incisions are made around the shoulder.
• An arthroscope is inserted for visualization.
• Torn tendons are reattached to the bone using sutures and anchors.

Advantages

• Minimally invasive with smaller incisions.
• Reduced postoperative pain and complications.
• Quicker return to daily activities.

Recovery

• Initial immobilization with a sling for 4–6 weeks.
• Gradual progression to physical therapy focusing on range of motion, strength, and function.
• Full recovery can take 4–6 months or longer, depending on the severity of the tear and adherence to rehabilitation.

Prevention of Future Tears

• Avoiding overhead activities that strain the shoulder.
• Regular strengthening exercises for shoulder and rotator cuff muscles.