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Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery

Overview

Rotator cuff surgery is a procedure performed to repair tears in the rotator cuff tendons of the shoulder. These tendons help stabilise the shoulder joint and enable overhead arm movements. Rotator cuff repair surgery is usually advised for patients for whom conservative treatments, such as physiotherapy, medications, or injections, were ineffective. This surgery aims to restore tendon function, reduce pain, improve strength, and prevent long-term complications like arthritis.

Rotator cuff surgery is advised for patients with:

  • Full-thickness or large partial-thickness rotator cuff tears
  • Persistent shoulder pain or weakness despite conservative treatment
  • Functional limitations, such as difficulty lifting the arm or performing overhead activities
  • Associated shoulder problems such as biceps tendon damage or bone spurs

Several surgical options are available, chosen based on the patient’s age, tear pattern, tissue quality, and general health:

  • Mini-open repair
    • The surgeon makes a small incision on the outer shoulder.
    • Arthroscopy may first be used to prepare the cuff and addressed associated issues such as biceps tendon tears and bony spurs
    • The tendon is then repaired through the small incision using non-absorbable sutures and suture anchors.
  • Arthroscopic repair
    • The surgeon inserts a camera and specialised instruments through keyhole incisions. The torn tendon is repaired under visualisation on a monitor.
    • This method is less invasive and usually associated with faster recovery compared with open procedures.

Different types of implants may support the repair: 

  • Suture anchors (titanium or absorbable materials such as PEEK or Bio-absorbable composites)
  • Non-absorbable sutures
  • Advanced options such as bio-inductive patches, balloon spacers that can be used as an adjuvant to the above implants

The surgery typically takes 1–2 hours, depending on the complexity of the tear and the technique used.

Preparation includes:

  • Pre-operative blood tests to assess readiness for the surgery.
  • Anaesthesia planning (general and/or combined with a regional block) options available to undergo this surgery.
  • Patient education regarding expected outcomes, recovery time, and rehabilitation requirements

Although rotator cuff surgery is generally safe, potential risks include:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Post-operative stiffness
  • Re-tear of the tendon
  • Rare complications related to anaesthesia or implants
     

  • The operated arm is placed in a sling or shoulder immobiliser for 4–6 weeks depending on the strength of the repair, quality of the tissue, and general conditions.
  • Pain is managed with anti-inflammatory and local therapy like applying ice packs.
  • Physiotherapy starts with passive movements in the early phase, progressing to active exercises over weeks to restore range of motion, function, and muscle strength.
  • Complete recovery usually takes around 4–6 months, with gradual return to daily activities and sports depending on the surgeon’s advice.

Disclaimer:

The information in this Health Library is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with any questions about a medical condition or before starting any treatment. Use of this site and its content does not establish a doctor–patient relationship. In case of a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or visit the nearest emergency facility immediately.