Surgery
Rotator Cuff Repair
Rotator cuff repair reattaches torn shoulder tendons to the bone to relieve pain and restore strength and movement.
Quick answer
Rotator Cuff Repair: what it is, why it's done and what happens
Rotator cuff repair fixes a tear in the group of tendons (the rotator cuff) that stabilise and move the shoulder, usually reattaching the tendon to the bone with small anchors, often through keyhole surgery.
- Why it is done: It is used for rotator cuff tears causing persistent pain, weakness or loss of movement, particularly larger or traumatic tears, or when physiotherapy and injections have not given enough improvement.
- What happens: Under general or regional anaesthetic, the surgeon reattaches the torn tendon, usually through small keyhole incisions using an arthroscope.
What it is
Rotator cuff repair fixes a tear in the group of tendons (the rotator cuff) that stabilise and move the shoulder, usually reattaching the tendon to the bone with small anchors, often through keyhole surgery.
Why it is done
It is used for rotator cuff tears causing persistent pain, weakness or loss of movement, particularly larger or traumatic tears, or when physiotherapy and injections have not given enough improvement.
What happens
Under general or regional anaesthetic, the surgeon reattaches the torn tendon, usually through small keyhole incisions using an arthroscope. It commonly takes 1–2 hours, often as a day case.
Recovery
The arm is protected in a sling for several weeks while the tendon heals, followed by a staged physiotherapy programme. Full recovery of strength typically takes several months.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include stiffness, infection, and the repair not fully healing (re-tear), which is more likely with large tears or in older tissue. Careful rehabilitation is essential.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Rotator Cuff Repair: frequently asked questions
How long will I need a sling?
A sling is usually worn for several weeks to protect the healing tendon, with the exact time depending on the size of the tear and your surgeon’s advice.
Do all rotator cuff tears need surgery?
No. Many partial tears and some full tears improve with physiotherapy and injections. Surgery is generally considered for larger, traumatic or persistent tears affecting strength and function.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- British Orthopaedic Association / relevant professional body
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