Rotator Cuff Surgery

If you are struggling with shoulder pain or limited mobility, a rotator cuff tear could be the cause. This article explores everything you need to know about rotator cuff surgery, from understanding the condition to recovery expectations.

Benjamin W. Szerlip, DO, a fellowship-trained shoulder and sports medicine surgeon in Austin, Texas, specializes in advanced techniques for diagnosing and treating rotator cuff injuries. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

Related Services

What Patients Are Saying

“I recently was injured in car accident and having sever pain in right shoulder. After months of no relief, I was finally referred to Dr. Szerlip. He listened to me, ran MRI and started treatment. I immediately started to have relief. He and his staff have been so kind and are TRUE PROFESSIONALS. THANK YOU DR. SZERLIP!!!!” — Julie Y.

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and enable a wide range of movements. A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of the rotator cuff tendons become damaged or completely detached from the upper arm bone. This condition can cause significant shoulder pain, weakness, and difficulty performing daily activities such as lifting or reaching.

What Causes Rotator Cuff Tears?

Rotator cuff tears can result from acute injuries or degenerative wear and tear over time. Some common causes include:

Trauma: Falls, lifting heavy objects, or sudden jerking motions.
Repetitive Use: Overuse in sports or jobs involving overhead motions, such as painting or swimming.
Age-Related Degeneration: Natural weakening of the rotator cuff tendons as we age.
Bone Spurs: Bony growths in the shoulder joint can rub against and fray tendons, increasing the risk of a torn tendon.
Lack of blood supply: The amount of blood that reaches the tendons reduces as we age. This makes it more difficult for the body to repair the tendons. Over time, this can lead to a tear.

When is Rotator Cuff Surgery Necessary?

While many rotator cuff injuries can be managed with rest, physical therapy, or injections, rotator cuff repair surgery is often recommended if:

Pain and weakness persist despite conservative treatments.
The tear is large or involves complete detachment.
Loss of mobility significantly impacts daily life.
The condition worsens over time, threatening long-term shoulder function.

Types of Rotator Cuff Surgery

Depending on the severity and nature of the tear, there are different types of rotator cuff surgery available:

Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A minimally invasive procedure using small incisions and a camera to guide surgical instruments.
Open Surgery: In cases of complex or extensive damage, traditional open surgery may be necessary to access and repair the torn rotator cuff.
Mini-Open Repair: Combines arthroscopic and open techniques for enhanced precision and recovery.

Dr. Szerlip specializes in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, a state-of-the-art technique that minimizes pain, scarring, and recovery time while delivering excellent outcomes.

How is Rotator Cuff Surgery Performed?

The process for rotator cuff repair surgery typically involves:

Preparation: Anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort.
Incisions: For arthroscopic procedures, small incisions are made to insert the arthroscope and instruments.
Tendon Repair: The surgeon reattaches the rotator cuff tendon to the bone using sutures or anchors.
Closure: The incisions are closed with stitches or surgical tape.

Dr. Szerlip employs advanced techniques to provide precise and effective repairs tailored to each patient’s needs.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, rotator cuff surgery carries some risks, including:

Infection
Stiffness or limited range of motion
Nerve damage
Re-tearing of the tendon

Dr. Szerlip and his team take every precaution to minimize these risks and ensure a smooth recovery. By following post-operative instructions and attending regular follow-ups, patients can achieve the best possible outcomes.

Recovery and Outlook

Recovering from cuff surgery is a gradual process that requires patience and commitment. Here’s what to expect:

Initial Recovery: The shoulder is immobilized in a sling for 2 to 4 weeks to protect the repair. Pain and swelling are managed with medications and ice.
Physical Therapy: A structured rehabilitation program begins shortly after surgery to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
Timeline: Most patients regain significant function within 4-6 months, though full recovery may take up to a year.

With proper care and guidance from a skilled surgeon like Dr. Szerlip, the outlook for rotator cuff injuries is highly positive. Many patients return to their favorite activities with improved strength and mobility.

Why Choose Dr. Benjamin W. Szerlip for Rotator Cuff Surgery?

As a fellowship-trained shoulder and sports medicine surgeon, Benjamin W. Szerlip, DO, brings unparalleled expertise and compassion to his practice. Whether you’re dealing with a torn rotator cuff or exploring your options for rotator cuff repair, we offer cutting-edge solutions tailored to your unique needs.

If you’re ready to regain your mobility and live pain-free, contact Dr. Szerlip’s office in Austin, Texas, today to schedule a consultation.

Medically reviewed by Benjamin W. Szerlip, DO

Sources