Rotator cuff repair surgery

The decision to perform a particular procedure depends upon factors, such as age, type and pattern of tear, general health condition, and the quality of muscle, tendon, and bone.

• The surgeon performs a series of pre-operative blood tests to prepare for the surgery.
• The anaesthetist discusses the various types of anaesthesia (general and/or combined with a regional block) options available to undergo this surgery.

Enhanced strength and pain reduction, improving the quality of life and mitigating the future risk of arthritis

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Post-operative stiffness
• Re-tear of the tendon

Mini-open repair

• The procedure can be performed in isolation or arthroscopy procedure wherein the initial preparation of cuff repair and other issues like biceps tendon preparation and bony spur excision are completed using arthroscopic techniques, while the repair is done by making a small incision over the outer aspect of the shoulder without cutting the major muscles
• The repair is achieved using non-absorbable sutures and/or various types of suture anchors available in the market

Arthroscopic repair

• The surgeon inserts a camera and various instruments into the shoulder joint by making keyhole incisions. The repair is performed through visualisation on a computer monitor.
• This technique has gained popularity because of its minimally invasive nature and faster recovery when compared with open procedures.

Various types of implants are available in the market, including suture anchors that are non-absorbable (titanium) or absorbable (PEEK or Bio-absorbable), non-absorbable sutures, or some newer implants (bio-inductive patches, balloon spacers) that can be used as an adjuvant to the above implants

Post-surgery

• The operated arm is kept in a sling or shoulder immobiliser for 4–6 weeks depending on the strength of the repair, quality of the tissue, and general conditions.
• The pain is managed with anti-inflammatory and local therapy like applying ice packs.
• Physiotherapy is usually passive for the initial few weeks, which is then increased gradually to achieve an improved range of movements, function, and adequate muscle strength.
• Complete recovery usually takes around 4–6 months.