A diagnosis of a torn rotator cuff does not automatically mean that you need surgery. Depending upon the severity of the injury, your doctor is likely to take a conservative approach with non-surgical treatment options. These options may include rest, physical therapy, and medication to relieve pain and inflammation.

When Torn Rotator Cuff Surgery is Recommended

If your shoulder is still experiencing persistent pain, weakness, immobility, or discomfort after going through non-surgical treatments, you may need torn rotator cuff surgery.

Additional signs that you may need surgery include:

• An increase in shoulder pain at night
• Difficulty lifting and reaching with your arm
• No relief from pain or inflammation after taking NSAID medications

Injuries Requiring Torn Rotator Cuff Repairs

Your doctor will order tests, including X-rays, and MRIs to determine the extent of your rotator cuff injury. However, the type of repair for your injury is not usually decided until surgery is underway.

• A partial tear may only require a debridement, which is the trimming or smoothing of the affected tendons
• A full-thickness tear on a tendon may be repaired side-by-side
• When the tendon has been torn from its connection point on the humerus, it will be reattached to the bone

Types of Surgery Used to Repair Torn Rotator Cuffs

When surgery is recommended, there are three types of surgery commonly implemented to repair a torn rotator cuff:

• Traditional open repair
• Mini-open repair
• Arthroscopic Surgery

Your surgeon will recommend which surgery would be best for you based on your injury and recovery goals.

Recovery Considerations for Torn Rotator Cuff Surgery

Muscle atrophy in the arm and loss of movement in the shoulder is common with a torn rotator cuff injury. After surgery, you can expect to undergo physical therapy for several months to regain the strength in your shoulder. Physical therapy will help your range of arm motion by strengthening the rotator cuff.

Leading Doctor for Torn Rotator Cuff Surgery

Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Howard Marans has been performing torn rotator cuff surgery on injured patients for over 20 years. The Doctor will accurately diagnose your rotator cuff injury, discuss your treatment and surgery options, and give his best estimate of your expected recovery based on the severity of your injury.

Please click the icon below to schedule your consultation online – or – call 714.979.8981.