Definition | Reasons for Procedure | Possible Complications | What to Expect | Call Your Doctor

Definition

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles in the shoulder and upper arm. The muscles help to move the arm at the shoulder and also help to stabilize the joint. The muscles are connected to the shoulder bone by tendons, which are strong, flexible cords. Tendons may become damaged from long term overuse or from injury.

Rotator Cuff Tear

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Reasons for Procedure

Your doctor may recommend this procedure for:

Possible Complications

Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:

  • Infection
  • Excess bleeding
  • Blood clots
  • Reaction to anesthesia
  • Weakness or numbness in shoulder joint
  • Detachment of the shoulder muscle
  • The operation does not provide the desired improvement in function

Smoking may increase the risk of complications and slow healing.

What to Expect

Your doctor may do the following:

Before this procedure, you will need to:

  • Arrange for help at home while you recover
  • Talk to your doctor about any medications, herbs, or supplements you are taking
  • Talk to your doctor about any allergies you have
  • Ask your doctor about assisted devices you will need

You may need to stop taking some medications up to one week before the procedure. Medications that may need to be stopped may include:

  • Aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
  • Blood-thinning drugs, such as warfarin
  • Anti-platelet drugs, such as clopidogrel

Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the day before your procedure, unless told otherwise by your doctor.

General anesthesia is typically used. You will be asleep during the procedure.

There are two methods used to perform a rotator cuff repair:

The doctor will make a cut in the skin over the shoulder. The torn tendon will be repaired and reattached and/or anchored with stitches. The incision will then be closed with stitches or staples.

A few small incisions will be made in the shoulder. A narrow tool called an arthroscope will be inserted through the incision. The scope has a tiny camera to allow the doctor to see inside. Other small instruments will be inserted through the other incisions. The doctor will use these tools to repair the tendon.

After either procedure, the incisions will be bandaged. Your arm will be placed in a sling or brace to immobilize the joint.

About 1-½ to 2 hours

Anesthesia prevents pain during the procedure. You may have some discomfort immediately after. Ask your doctor about medication to help with the pain.

You may be able to go home the same day. Some may need to stay in the hospital for one day.

Right after the procedure, you may be given medication, such as:

  • Pain medication
  • Antibiotics to prevent infection
  • Medication that prevents blood clots

When you return home, take these steps:

The rotator cuff will take several months to heal. It may take some time before you can raise your arm above your shoulder. It may be up to one year before you can hold your arm above your head and do work with reasonable strength. An aggressive and consistent exercise program is the key to a faster recovery.

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Signs of infection, including fever and chills
  • Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge at the incision site
  • Pain cannot be controlled with medications given
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain
  • The stitches or staples come apart

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.