Body > Common Shoulder Surgeries > Rotator Cuff Repair

Rotator Cuff Repair

This is keyhole surgery, usually performed under a combination of general anaesthetic and a nerve block. It may be performed as a day procedure, but you may also stay in hospital overnight.

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles that come from your shoulder blade (scapula) to help control the ball and socket joint in your shoulder. Shoulder pain can come from a torn rotator cuff in the shoulder, which in some cases requires surgery and rehabilitation.

The operation is usually performed through several small incisions (about 1cm).  The surgeon inserts an arthroscope through one incision and examines the shoulder joint and tendons to confirm the cause of the symptoms.

The arthroscope is then used to view and guide the surgery performed through the other incisions. If necessary the surgeon may decide to perform an open repair through a larger incision. Small anchors are placed in the bone and stitches that are attached to the anchors, are then passed through the torn tendon and then pulled tightly back towards the anchor. This brings the torn tendon edge back to the bone where it was attached.

The incisions are sutured and dressed, and the arm is placed in a special sling with a cushion under the arm to protect the repaired rotator cuff.  The sling needs to be used all the time for 4-6 weeks.  Gentle exercises are started in the first few days or weeks after your operation, guided by your physiotherapist. 

Exercises

• Don’t lift your arm without assistance otherwise the repair can be compromised.
• After your shoulder operation it is very important to perform exercises to regain your mobility, and later strength.
• Don’t use the muscles in the operated shoulder to raise the arm away from your side, even in the sling.
• Only perform exercises taught to you by your physiotherapist or surgeon.
• Exercises should be performed 3-5 times a day.  It may be helpful to take pain medication 30-40 minutes prior to exercise (as prescribed by your doctor).

Swelling

• You may have considerable swelling around your shoulder after surgery.
• Apply ice for a maximum of 20 minutes following exercises or as required.
• Ice (crushed, cubes, frozen peas, gel pack etc.) should be wrapped in a towel and placed directly on the shoulder, over the waterproof dressing.

Pain

• Immediately after your surgery, pain at rest and with movement is expected.
• Take your medication and use ice regularly to keep your pain mild-moderate (<4/10).
• Many people develop pain around the neck, upper back and down the arm which is normal, but if you are concerned please call your physiotherapist.
• If you develop worsening tingling or numbness, please call your physiotherapist.

Sling

• The sling is for protection for the first 4-6 weeks after the operation.
• Ensure your elbow is in the corner of the sling, and hand supported inside the sling.
• Your arm should rest comfortably in the sling, with the entire weight of the arm supported and with your hand at the level of your chest.
• Wear the sling both day and night (including sleeping).
• Only remove the sling for showering, and when doing the prescribed exercises.

Driving

• No driving for 4-6 weeks to ensure that the repair site heals well.
• Await instructions from your surgeon or physiotherapist to commence driving.