Rotator Cuff

Comprehensive solutions for repairing rotator cuff injuries and restoring shoulder function.

Rotator Cuff Repair

Rotator cuff repair is a surgical procedure to address tears in the rotator cuff, a group of four tendons and muscles that stabilize the shoulder and facilitate movement. The type of repair depends on the tear's size and complexity.

Single-Tendon Repair

Overview: This procedure targets a tear in a single rotator cuff tendon, commonly the supraspinatus.

Indications

• Partial or full-thickness tears of a single tendon.
• Pain and weakness affecting daily activities.

Procedure

Arthroscopic or Open Technique: Small incisions are made, and the torn tendon is reattached to the humeral head using anchors and sutures.

Recovery

• Immobilization in a sling for 4-6 weeks.
• Gradual rehabilitation to restore range of motion and strength.

Double-Tendon Repair

Overview: This repair addresses tears involving two or more rotator cuff tendons, such as the supraspinatus and infraspinatus.

Indications

• Large or complex tears involving multiple tendons.
• Persistent pain and loss of function.

Procedure

Arthroscopic or open surgery to reattach both tendons to the humeral head. Specialized suturing techniques ensure adequate tension and stability.

Recovery

• Longer recovery period compared to single-tendon repair.
• Sling use for 6 weeks, followed by structured physical therapy.

Benefits of Both

• Restores shoulder function and strength.
• Reduces pain and improves quality of life.

Trapezius Transfer

Overview: Trapezius transfer is a specialized procedure used for irreparable rotator cuff tears. It involves transferring the lower trapezius muscle to restore shoulder function.

Indications

• Irreparable rotator cuff tears.
• Loss of shoulder external rotation.
• Patients who are not candidates for reverse shoulder arthroplasty.

Procedure

A segment of the lower trapezius muscle is detached and rerouted to the humeral head. Tendon grafts (often using allografts) are employed to connect the transferred muscle to the bone. This procedure can be performed open or arthroscopically.

Recovery

• Sling use for 6-8 weeks.
• Gradual physical therapy focusing on retraining the trapezius to function as a rotator cuff substitute.
• Full recovery in 9-12 months.

Benefits

• Improves shoulder stability and range of motion.
• Offers a solution for patients with otherwise limited treatment options.

PASTA Repair (Partial Articular-Sided Tendon Avulsion)

Overview: PASTA repair is a minimally invasive surgical technique for treating partial-thickness tears on the articular side of the rotator cuff tendon.

Indications

• Articular-sided tears of less than 50% tendon thickness.
• Persistent pain despite conservative treatment.

Procedure

Arthroscopic Approach: A camera and specialized instruments are used to assess and repair the tear. The torn portion of the tendon is reattached to the bone using suture anchors, preserving the remaining healthy tendon tissue.

Recovery

• Sling use for 3-4 weeks.
• Physical therapy focusing on progressive strengthening and mobility.
• Full recovery in 4-6 months.

Benefits

• Preserves healthy tendon tissue.
• Minimally invasive with a quicker recovery.