Rotator cuff repair surgery is a specialized orthopedic procedure used to fix torn or damaged tendons in the shoulder. These tendons help stabilize the shoulder joint and facilitate arm movements. Surgery is often recommended when the tear leads to ongoing pain, weakness, and limited motion that does not respond to non-surgical treatments like rest, physiotherapy, or injections.
There are three main types of rotator cuff repair arthroscopic, mini-open, and open surgery. Arthroscopic repair involves small incisions and a camera-guided tool, making it less invasive and ideal for minor tears. Mini-open repair combines arthroscopy with a small incision to treat moderate injuries. Open repair is used for large or complex tears, allowing direct access to the tendon and bone.
Rotator cuff tears may result from acute injuries like falling on an outstretched arm or lifting something too heavy. Repetitive overhead motions in jobs or sports, such as painting or tennis, also strain the tendons. Age-related degeneration is a leading cause, as tendons naturally weaken over time. These factors can lead to partial or complete tendon tears requiring surgical repair.
Patients may experience persistent shoulder pain that worsens at night or when lifting objects. Weakness when raising or rotating the arm, a crackling sensation during movement, or difficulty performing overhead tasks are typical symptoms. If the condition interferes with sleep, work, or basic activities and doesn’t improve with conservative treatment, rotator cuff repair surgery may be recommended.
Diagnosis begins with a detailed physical examination to check for shoulder pain, weakness, and range of motion limitations. Doctors often ask about recent injuries or repetitive shoulder activities. Imaging tests like MRI or ultrasound help visualize the extent of the tendon tear and associated damage. These assessments confirm whether surgical repair is necessary based on the severity and impact on daily function.
During surgery, the torn tendon is reattached to the shoulder bone using sutures and tiny anchors. The method chosen arthroscopic, mini-open, or open depends on the tear’s size and location. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Post-operative recovery includes immobilization with a sling followed by structured physical therapy to regain strength, flexibility, and full shoulder function.
Persistent shoulder pain or limited movement should not be ignored. Seek medical help if you notice these signs:
Pain that worsens when lying on the affected shoulder can be a sign of tendon damage or tear.
Difficulty raising your arm above your head or rotating it without pain or weakness is concerning.
Inability to carry weight or perform usual arm tasks indicates a possible tear in the rotator cuff.
Audible sounds during shoulder movement can result from tendon impingement or damage.
Pain persisting beyond a few weeks, even after rest and medication, requires orthopedic evaluation.
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I got back to work within weeks. Truly grateful for the quick, smooth recovery.
Sunil Raghavan Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery
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Anjali Iyer Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery
Even after surgery, the physiotherapy team helped me regain movement without complications.
Harish Nair Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery
I was scared of surgery, but the mediSuggest team made it easy and comforting.
Neelam Desai Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery
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Ravi Menon Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery
After months of sleepless nights, mediSuggest helped me recover with ease. I’m now pain-free and active again.
Meera Kapoor Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery
Rotator cuff repair surgery fixes torn shoulder tendons, restoring movement and reducing pain. It may be done arthroscopically or through an open technique.
You may feel some pain initially after surgery, but pain is well-managed with medications and decreases significantly during the recovery period.
Recovery usually takes 3–6 months. Physiotherapy is crucial to regain full strength and mobility during this period.
All surgeries carry some risk, such as infection or stiffness, but with experienced surgeons, complications are rare.
Most patients recover excellent mobility with proper post-operative physiotherapy and care.
