Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

The rotator cuff is a group of four tendons that hold the shoulder in place and help lift and rotate the arm. Tears can happen after a fall or lifting injury, or gradually with age. A rotator cuff tear typically causes pain at night and weakness while lifting the arm.

Signs of a rotator cuff tear

• Shoulder pain, especially at night or when lying on the affected side
• Weakness while lifting or rotating the arm
• Difficulty combing hair or reaching overhead
• Clicking or crackling in the shoulder

How it is treated

Partial tears often improve with physiotherapy and injections. Full-thickness or painful tears that do not improve are repaired arthroscopically – the torn tendon is re-attached to the bone using small anchors through keyhole incisions.

Recovery

The arm is rested in a sling for a few weeks, followed by gentle movement and then strengthening exercises. Early repair gives better results, so do not ignore persistent shoulder pain.