Rotator Cuff Repair

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Rotator Cuff Repair

Rotator cuff repair is a surgery to treat torn muscles and tendons in the cuff that covers the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff holds the shoulder together and helps it rotate and move properly. Tears in the tissue can be caused by falls or other trauma, frequent repetitive movement, or the aging process. Your doctor may recommend this surgery if treatments such as cortisone injections do not relieve severe shoulder pain.

How it is performed

The procedure can be performed either through open surgery or by using a minimally invasive technique called shoulder arthroscopy, which requires only a few small incisions (cuts). The physician looks inside the shoulder using a device called an arthroscope, which has surgical instruments and a tiny camera on the end. This helps determine how to repair the problem. Repair usually includes reattaching a tendon to the bone, removing any bone spurs, cleaning out debris, and addressing muscle tears.

Recovery

After leaving the hospital, patients wear a sling and possibly a device to keep the shoulder immobilized for several weeks. Recovery and rehabilitation can take up to six months and often includes physical therapy.

Why choose UAB

The physicians of UAB Orthopaedics focus on bone and joint conditions of the hands, back, knees, hips, feet, and shoulder. Some of them further specialize in pediatric orthopaedics, musculoskeletal oncology, and sports medicine. They develop care plans specific to each individual case and communicate with you every step of the way. Patients are also connected with other health care specialties as needed, to ensure that you receive seamless and comprehensive care.

Our orthopaedic clinics are located at UAB Hospital-Highlands.

About UAB Orthopaedics

Specialists within UAB Orthopaedics are internationally respected for their medical and academic expertise. They provide the full range of treatments, from complex surgeries to minimally invasive procedures that require only a few small incisions (cuts). These include complete hip replacements, scoliosis correction, repairing sports-related injuries, and even screenings for bone cancer.

Our experts receive world-class training and stay current with the latest advances through professional societies like the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. They hold leadership roles in these professional societies and author textbooks that help develop tomorrow’s orthopaedic physicians.