Rotator cuff repair surgery
Shoulder tear repair surgery
A surgical procedure to repair a significant tear in the rotator cuff, to help you regain strength in your shoulder
What is a rotator cuff injury?
The rotator cuff is formed of muscles and tendons that attach your arm to the top of your shoulder blade.
Impingement or a tear are the usual types of damage that can occur to the rotator cuff. If you have a large tear it is likely that surgery is your only option to regain strength in the shoulder.
Impingement or a tear are the usual types of damage that can occur to the rotator cuff. If you have a large tear it is likely that surgery is your only option to regain strength in the shoulder.
Need to know
-
What happens during rotator cuff surgery? icon plus
Impingement is usually treated by an arthroscopy (keyhole surgery). Your surgeon will use instruments to remove any thickened tissue, release any tight tissue and shave off some bone. Your surgeon may also be able to repair rotator cuff tears using keyhole surgery.
In some cases they may need to use open surgery. They will use stitches that anchor into the bone. -
How to prepare for shoulder surgery icon plus
Your consultant will tell you how best to prepare for your procedure. If you're having general anaesthetic they will let you know how long you should avoid eating and drinking for. -
Post surgery recovery icon plus
You should be able to go home the same day. Any stitches or clips are usually removed after one to two weeks. It can take up to a year to get back enough strength in your shoulder to return to normal activities. Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities as soon as possible.
Before you start exercising, ask your healthcare team or your consultant for advice. You may not get back the same strength that you had before you damaged your shoulder.
Paying for medical treatment
You don’t need health insurance to have fast access to our top consultants, extensive range of treatments, diagnostic tests and surgical procedures at our world-class facilities.
Our shoulder consultants
We're proud to work with leading orthopaedic experts who specialise in shoulder problems and injuries, and whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.
Our locations
From complex shoulder surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional orthopaedic care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
Request a shoulder or elbow appointment
We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced upper limb consultants. We can also make imaging and outpatient physiotherapy appointments for you.
Call us today
020 7079 4344
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.