Rotator Cuff Repair

What is a Rotator Cuff?

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that work together to keep the shoulder joint stable and allow for a wide range of motion, such as lifting, rotating, and reaching overhead. When one or more of these tendons become torn or damaged, either from an injury or wear and tear, it can significantly impact a person's daily life and cause a great deal of discomfort.

Rotator cuff injuries should not be taken lightly. If they are not treated in a timely manner, they can worsen over time and lead to other serious shoulder problems in the future. 

Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injuries

So, what are the symptoms of rotator cuff injuries? Here's what people should look out for:

• Persistent pain in the shoulder and upper arm, especially when lifting or lowering the arm,
• Weakness in the arm that makes everyday tasks feel challenging,
• Unusual crackling, popping, or snapping sounds when moving the shoulder,
• Stiffness and difficulty moving the shoulder in a normal range of motion,
• Pain that intensifies at night or when lying on the affected side.

If someone experiences any of these symptoms, it is crucial to consult an orthopedic specialist to determine the main cause.

Diagnosing Rotator Cuff Injuries

To diagnose a rotator cuff injury, the doctor will inquire about the patient's symptoms, previous shoulder issues, and daily activities or sports. They will then examine the shoulder and check for its range of motion, strength, and stability. But to really get a good look at what's happening inside the shoulder, the doctor may order some imaging tests:

• X-rays to check for any bone spurs or other bony changes
• Ultrasound to get a real-time look at your rotator cuff tendons
• MRI to create detailed images of your shoulder's soft tissues

In some cases, the doctor may recommend an arthroscopy, which is a minimally invasive procedure. This procedure uses a small camera to assess the damage and plan the best treatment approach.

Deciding on Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery

Now, not every rotator cuff injury requires surgery. In many cases, conservative treatments like rest, ice, physical therapy, and medication can be effective. However, patients should consider surgery if:

• Conservative treatments have been tried for several months without improvement,
• There is a large or complete tear in one or more of the rotator cuff tendons,
• The tear is the result of a recent acute injury,
• The shoulder weakness is significantly impacting the patient's ability to work or enjoy activities.

Choosing to have rotator cuff repair surgery is a big decision, so patients should make sure to weigh all the options with their orthopedic surgeon before proceeding.

Preparing for Rotator Cuff Surgery Repair

If the patient and their doctor decide that rotator cuff repair surgery is the best course of action, there are several steps to take in preparation:

• Follow the surgeon's instructions regarding medication management before surgery, especially blood thinners and anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Arrange for someone to drive the patient home and assist with daily tasks after surgery. The patient will need to wear a sling and avoid using the affected arm for some time.
• To prepare the living space for post-surgery recovery, keep all the frequently used items within easy reach and remove any tripping hazards.
• Attend the pre-op appointment to discuss the details of the surgery, anesthesia, and recovery plan.
• Follow any instructions about fasting or preparing the skin before the surgery.

Rotator Cuff Repair Procedure

Rotator cuff repair surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure so the patient can head home the same day to begin recovery. The surgery itself takes about 1-2 hours and is performed under general anesthesia so that the patient can comfortably undergo it.

There are two primary methods for repairing a torn rotator cuff:

1. Arthroscopic Repair: The surgeon makes small incisions around the shoulder. Then, with the help of a tiny camera and instruments, the torn tendon is reattached to the bone using sutures, anchors, or other specialized devices.
2. Open Repair: For complex tears, the surgeon may need to make a larger incision to visualize and repair the damage directly.

Following the surgery, the patient's arm will be placed in a sling to protect the newly repaired tendon and facilitate healing. They will receive instructions on pain management, incision care, and avoidable activities. Physical therapy is essential for the shoulder's recovery, beginning with gentle range-of-motion exercises and gradually progressing to strengthening and functional movements.

Cost

The cost of rotator cuff repair surgery in India depends on a few factors:

• Whether you have an arthroscopic or open procedure
• The size and complexity of your tear
• The hospital and location you choose
• Your surgeon's experience and fees
• Pre- and post-op care, including medications and rehab

The average rotator cuff repair surgery cost in India ranges from Rs. 1,50,000 to Rs. 3,50,000. This typically covers the surgery itself, anesthesia, hospital stay, and initial rehab. But, your actual cost could be higher or lower based on your specific case and the hospital you select.

If you have a rotator cuff injury, don't wait to get help. Apollo Spectra's team of top-notch orthopedic surgeons is here to provide you with the expert care and support you need to get back to your best self. Give us a call today to schedule a consultation and receive expert advice for your rotator cuff repair.