Rotator Cuff Repair Specialist

What is a rotator cuff?

A rotator cuff is a group of muscles that attaches the head of your upper arm bone to the shoulder blade, giving you the ability to lift and rotate your arm. 

Rotator cuff injuries usually involve a tear of one or more of the tendons that attach the muscle to your arm bone. A rotator cuff tear means the tendon is no longer fully connected to the bone, resulting in pain and limiting mobility.

Without treatment, a rotator cuff tear worsens over time. Though not everyone with a rotator cuff tear needs surgery, the injury won’t heal without surgical repair.

What is rotator cuff repair?

Rotator cuff repair refers to the surgical procedure the shoulder surgeons at Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services perform to fix this injury. The shoulder surgeons have advanced training in rotator cuff repair.

They individualize surgical procedures, and when possible, the surgeons use minimally invasive surgery for a faster recovery and better results. 

Who needs rotator cuff repair?

After a consultation, the Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services team determines who needs rotator cuff repair. 

Most patients with a rotator cuff injury improve without surgery. However, the team recommends rotator cuff repair if medical interventions fail to reduce pain or you lead an active lifestyle that requires full use of your shoulder. 

What happens during rotator cuff repair?

Your surgeon at Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services customizes your rotator cuff repair procedure to match your unique surgical needs. They review the details at your pre-surgical visit so you know what to expect.

Ideally, your surgeon performs shoulder arthroscopy to repair your rotator cuff. During this procedure, they make a small incision at your shoulder to insert an arthroscope — a surgical camera — that allows them to see your joint without needing a large open incision.

Your surgeon makes additional small incisions to insert the surgical tools needed to reattach your tendon to your arm bone.

What can I expect during recovery from rotator cuff repair?

The Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services team reviews the details of your recovery following your procedure. They recommend keeping your shoulder in a sling for four to six weeks following rotator cuff repair, then refer you to physical therapy when you’re ready.

You should regain most of your shoulder function within six months after surgery and full function within 18 months. 

To discuss rotator cuff repair with the highly skilled team at Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services, call or schedule a consultation online today.