Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

PATIENT INFORMATION

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is a very successful procedure and has completely replaced the open (large incisions) surgical approach in the treatment of patients with a torn rotator cuff. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is performed on an outpatient basis. This surgery is performed through a few small (<1cm) incisions in the front, side and back of the shoulder. Through these small holes an arthroscope is inserted that allows the surgeon to see throughout the inside of the shoulder joint. Special arthroscopic instruments are utilized through the other holes to perform the necessary surgery of correcting/repairing the torn rotator cuff and other damaged tissue. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery usually takes about 1 hour to perform but may take longer for the more complex Rotator Cuff repairs. However the total time that the patient may be away from the family could be 3-5 hours because of the time needed to prepare the patient for surgery, perform the nerve block, prepare and position the patient in the surgical room, the operating time, and finally the time in the recovery room. Occasionally patients have a significant medical condition (severe sleep apnea, cardiac conditions, etc.) that will require that the patient to be closely monitored in a hospital overnight.

The following information is designed to help you make a decision on whether you are ready to have surgical correction of your shoulder condition, a torn Rotator Cuff. Please completely read the downloadable version of Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair and be prepared to ask any questions upon your return visit: