Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
The rotator cuff is an important group of muscles that is responsible for keeping the shoulder joint stable while allowing flexibility of the shoulder and arm. It is made up of 4 muscles whose tendons connect the shoulder blade with the upper arm. Tears of the rotator cuff tendons can occur and this leads to shoulder weakness and pain.
Surgery is often required to repair the rotator cuff. Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is possible in many cases. Here, a small fibre optic camera is placed inside the shoulder joint through a small incision in the shoulder. This allows vision into the shoulder joint. Several other small incisions are made which allow the surgeon to pass small instruments into the shoulder joint. With these instruments, the surgeon is able to repair the torn tendon. Once completed, the small incisions are closed with sutures.
Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is an operation done under a general anaesthetic and is combined with regional anaesthesia. It usually requires an overnight stay in hospital.
Your normal activities will need to be adjusted to reduce any heavy lifting or significant shoulder exercise for up to 12 weeks following surgery. A shoulder sling is worn for up to 6 weeks after surgery.
