Rotator Cuff Repair

How is it repaired?

A rotator cuff repair is performed through a minimally invasive surgical procedure called a shoulder arthroscopy where small surgical tools will be inserted into the shoulder to reattach the torn tendon(s) back to the humerus. 

Your surgeon will put 2-4 metal screws into the top of the head of your humerus to serve as anchors. Sutures (stitches) will then be threaded through the end of the torn tendon(s) and secured to the metal anchors to reattach the torn rotator cuff tendon(s) to the head of the humerus.

Surgery Recovery Timeline

Full recovery from a rotator cuff repair typically takes at least 6 months to return to unrestricted activity. If you have a sedentary job and your non-dominant arm was affected, you may be able to return to work within two to four weeks after surgery while continuing to wear your shoulder sling. If your dominant arm was affected or if your job requires repeated use of both arms to perform your work duties,  it can take between 3-8 months for you to return to unrestricted work duties.

You will be required to wear a shoulder sling that will support and stabilize your shoulder as it heals. Your shoulder sling will be provided to you after the surgery and must be worn at all times, including when you sleep. The only time your shoulder sling should be removed is during physical therapy, when you are performing exercises, and briefly when showering or getting dressed. Use of the shoulder sling is generally discontinued after 4-6 weeks under the guidance of your surgeon when your rotator cuff has healed enough to support and stabilize your shoulder at rest.