Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery

Restore shoulder strength and function with expert rotator cuff repair

What is Rotator Cuff Repair?

Rotator cuff repair is a surgical procedure to reattach torn tendons of the rotator cuff to the bone. The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize the shoulder and enable arm movement. When these tendons tear, surgical repair can restore function, reduce pain, and prevent further damage.

Common Injury: Rotator cuff tears affect over 2 million people annually in the US, with arthroscopic repair showing success rates of 85-95% for appropriate cases.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears are classified by size and characteristics:

  • Partial Tears: Tear through only part of the tendon thickness
  • Full-thickness Tears: Complete tear through the entire tendon
  • Small Tears: Less than 1 cm in diameter
  • Medium Tears: 1-3 cm in diameter
  • Large Tears: 3-5 cm in diameter
  • Massive Tears: Greater than 5 cm, often involving multiple tendons
  • Acute Tears: Sudden injury, often repairable
  • Chronic Tears: Degenerative changes, may be more challenging to repair

Surgical Approaches

Arthroscopic Repair

Minimally invasive technique using small incisions and specialized instruments for faster recovery.

Mini-Open Repair

Combination of arthroscopic and small open incision for optimal visualization and repair.

Open Repair

Traditional approach through larger incision for complex or massive tears requiring extensive repair.

Rotator Cuff Repair Process

1

Evaluation & Imaging

MRI and physical examination to assess tear size, location, tissue quality, and muscle condition.

2

Surgical Repair

1-3 hour procedure to reattach torn tendons to bone using sutures, anchors, and specialized techniques.

3

Immobilization

4-6 weeks in sling to protect repair and allow initial healing of tendon to bone.

4

Rehabilitation

4-6 months of progressive physical therapy to restore motion, strength, and function.

Recovery Phases

Recovery from rotator cuff repair follows specific phases:

  • Phase 1 (0-6 weeks): Sling immobilization, passive range of motion only
  • Phase 2 (6-12 weeks): Gentle active motion, no lifting or strengthening
  • Phase 3 (3-4 months): Progressive strengthening and functional activities
  • Phase 4 (4-6 months): Return to full activities and sports
  • Long-term: Ongoing maintenance exercises and activity modification

Shoulder Pain Limiting Your Activities?

Don't let a rotator cuff tear keep you from the activities you love. Schedule a consultation to discuss repair options and restore your shoulder function.

Schedule Consultation+1-555-BLUME-MD

Arthroscopic and open repair options available. Most insurance plans accepted.