Rotator Cuff Surgery: What You Need to Know
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that attach your upper arm bone to your shoulder blade. It helps to lift and rotate your arm, as well as stabilize your shoulder joint. Injuries to the rotator cuff are a common cause of shoulder pain, weakness, and limited mobility. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage. In this article, we'll take a closer look at rotator cuff surgery, including what it is, who it's for, and what to expect during and after the procedure.
What is Rotator Cuff Surgery?
Rotator cuff surgery is a procedure to repair a tear in one or more of the rotator cuff tendons. It may involve reattaching the tendon to the bone using sutures or anchors, removing damaged tissue, or both. The surgery is typically done under general anesthesia, meaning you'll be unconscious during the procedure. It can be performed using open surgery or arthroscopy, a minimally invasive technique that uses small incisions and a tiny camera to guide the surgeon's instruments.
Preparation for Rotator Cuff Surgery
Before the surgery, the patient will meet with their surgeon to discuss the procedure and what to expect. They will also undergo a physical examination and imaging tests, such as an MRI or X-ray, to evaluate the extent of the damage.
In the weeks leading up to the surgery, the patient may be advised to stop taking certain medications that could increase the risk of bleeding. They may also be advised to do certain exercises to improve shoulder strength and flexibility.
What to Expect During Rotator Cuff Surgery
During the surgery, the patient will be under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision in the shoulder to access the rotator cuff. If the surgery is being done arthroscopically, several small incisions will be made instead.
The surgeon will then use specialized tools to repair the rotator cuff. This may involve reattaching the tendon to the bone using sutures or anchors. In some cases, the surgeon may also need to remove bone spurs or other damaged tissue.
The surgery typically takes about 1-2 hours to complete, after which the patient will be taken to a recovery room to wake up from the anesthesia.
Who is a Candidate for Rotator Cuff Surgery?
Not everyone with a rotator cuff tear needs surgery. In fact, many people are able to manage their symptoms with conservative treatments like physical therapy, rest, and medication. However, if you have a severe tear that is causing significant pain, weakness, and limited mobility, your doctor may recommend surgery. Other factors that may make you a candidate for rotator cuff surgery include:
Age: Younger patients are generally better candidates for surgery because they tend to heal more quickly and have better overall health.
Activity level: If you have a physically demanding job or participate in sports or other activities that put a lot of stress on your shoulder, surgery may be necessary to restore full function.
Tear size: The size of the tear is an important factor in determining whether surgery is necessary. Small tears may be able to heal on their own, while larger tears require surgical intervention.
Tendon quality: If your rotator cuff tendon is healthy and has good blood supply, it may be able to heal without surgery. However, if the tendon is damaged or has poor blood supply, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage.
What are the Risks of Rotator Cuff Surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks associated with rotator cuff surgery. These may include:
Infection: There is a risk of infection anytime you have surgery. Your surgeon will take steps to minimize this risk, such as using sterile equipment and prescribing antibiotics before and after the procedure.
Nerve damage: The nerves that control your shoulder and arm can be damaged during surgery, resulting in weakness, numbness, or pain.
Stiffness: After surgery, your shoulder may be stiff and difficult to move. This can be a temporary or long-term side effect of the procedure.
Re-tear: Even after successful surgery, there is a risk that the rotator cuff tendon may tear again in the future.
Blood clots: There is a risk of blood clots forming in your legs during or after surgery. Your surgeon may recommend compression stockings or blood-thinning medication to reduce this risk.
What is the Recovery Process Like?
Recovering from rotator cuff surgery can take several months, and it's important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully to ensure a successful outcome. In general, the recovery process will look something like this:
Immediately after surgery: You'll likely need to wear a sling to support your arm and limit movement for the first few days after surgery. You may also need pain medication to manage discomfort.
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