Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

What is arthroscopic rotator cuff repair?

Rotator cuff tears are a common problem and can cause pain and incapacity for professional or sporting activities.

Which rotator cuff tears require surgery?

Indications for surgical repair of the rotator cuff depend on the mechanism of injury (traumatic or degenerative), the functional demands and symptoms presented, as well as the characteristics of the tear itself. An evaluation by a specialist shoulder surgeon is recommended to clarify the benefit of an intervention and to understand the treatment options and what to expect from recovery.

How is rotator cuff repair performed arthroscopically?

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique used to treat osteoarticular injuries. A camera is inserted through a small incision, allowing visualization of the structures. In this case, after inspection and identification of the tear, specific instruments are used to allow repair – suturing the tendon back to its insertion. Each tear is unique, both in its configuration and in the characteristics of the tissue and each patient. The surgeon can choose different types of anchors and high-strength sutures to restore the anatomy.

What are the advantages of arthroscopic treatment of the rotator cuff?

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive method that minimizes the muscle and other tissue damage that occurs with the conventional approach. Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is distinguished by better visualization of the injured structures and less postoperative pain, compared with the conventional open technique. This translates into greater comfort and faster recovery. The cosmetic result is also more satisfactory, with scars of 5 mm almost imperceptible.

What to expect after an arthroscopy for rotator cuff repair?

The surgical procedure lasts approximately 1 hour, depending on the extent of the injury. This surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis, with admission and discharge on the same day, or with an overnight stay of less than 24 hours. After surgery, it is recommended to use a shoulder immobilizer, ideally in neutral rotation or slight abduction, to protect the repair during the initial healing phase. This immobilization should be maintained for a period of 4 to 6 weeks.

Frequent mobilization of the wrist and fingers is recommended, as well as flexion and extension movements of the elbow, two to three times a day. Pendulum/circular shoulder exercises are usually recommended from the first postoperative day. Passive mobilization of the shoulder begins from 2-4 weeks. After removal of the immobilization, a rehabilitation period with physiotherapy lasting 4 to 6 months is expected for recovery.

When can I return to work after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair?

Returning to work depends on the professional activity performed. For workers who do not require any load-bearing effort on their upper limbs, a period of 2 to 3 months is usually recommended to resume their work duties. In the case of manual workers, especially those who need to support loads, a period of approximately 6 months is often necessary. These periods may vary depending on the type of rupture, the characteristics of each patient and the recovery achieved.