Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is used to repair a damaged rotator cuff, the group of tendons and muscles that connect the upper arm bone to the shoulder blade. This procedure is typically performed using small incisions and a camera called an arthroscope to visualize the inside of the joint. It is a less invasive alternative to traditional open surgeries, which involve a larger incision and a longer recovery time.

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that connect the upper arm bone (humerus) to the shoulder blade (scapula). These muscles and tendons work together to provide stability and movement to the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff can become damaged due to a variety of reasons, including injury, overuse, and aging. Symptoms of a damaged rotator cuff may include pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder.

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is typically recommended for patients who have a tear in the rotator cuff that is causing pain and limiting their ability to use the shoulder. This procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, which means that the patient can go home the same day.

During the procedure, our surgeons will make several small incisions around the shoulder joint. An arthroscope, a small camera, is inserted through one of these incisions, allowing the surgeon to visualize the inside of the joint. The other incisions are used to insert small instruments to repair the torn tendon. The surgeon will use sutures to reattach the tendon to the bone and may also use special anchors to hold the tendon in place.

The recovery time for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair varies depending on the extent of the injury and the patient's overall health. Physical therapy is usually recommended to help the patient regain strength and range of motion in the shoulder. In most cases, patients are able to return to normal activities within a few weeks, but it may take several months for the shoulder to fully heal and allow for activities such as heavy lifting.

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair has several advantages over traditional open surgery. Because the incisions are smaller, there is less scarring and the recovery time is typically shorter. Additionally, arthroscopic surgery allows the surgeon to better visualize the inside of the joint, which can lead to a more accurate diagnosis and a more precise repair.

Our team of physicians are highly trained in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and a wide variety of other minimally invasive procedures. If you'd like to schedule an appointment, you can use the form on this page or call our patient advocate team at (321) 499-4646