Rotator Cuff Repair in Newhall, Encino and Thousand Oaks, CA

What is the Rotator Cuff?

The rotator cuff is a group of 4 muscles in the shoulder joint including the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles originate in the scapula and attach to the head of the humerus through tendons. The rotator cuff forms a sleeve around the humeral head and glenoid cavity, providing stability to the shoulder joint while enabling a wide range of movements.

Injury to the rotator cuff may occur due to pressure on the rotator cuff from part of the shoulder blade (scapula). It may occur due to repeated use of the arm for overhead activities or while playing sports. A forceful injury such as trauma can cause one or more of these tendons to tear, a condition called rotator cuff tear.

What is Rotator Cuff Repair?

Rotator cuff repair is a surgery to repair an injured or torn rotator cuff. It is usually performed arthroscopically on an outpatient basis. An arthroscope, a small, fiber-optic instrument consisting of a lens, light source, and video camera. The camera projects images of the inside of the joint onto a large monitor, allowing your doctor to look for any damage, assess the type of injury and repair it. Large rotator cuff tears may require open surgery.

When is Rotator Cuff Surgery Necessary?

Your doctor may suggest surgery to treat rotator cuff tears if you:

• Do not respond to non-surgical treatment options
• Have severe shoulder pain and experience loss of strength
• you want to return to sports soon

Preparing for the Surgery

Your doctor will assess your symptoms and take your medical history. Imaging tests such as X-ray, MRI or CT-scan may be ordered. Talk to your doctor about the medicines you are taking prior to the procedure and if you are allergic to any medicines or anesthesia. Arrange for someone to drive you home.

Surgical Procedure

The surgery is performed under general or regional and involves the following steps:

• One or more incisions are made at the skin near the shoulder joint.
• An arthroscope is inserted through the incision.
• Miniature surgical instruments are inserted to remove the damaged part of the tendon and injured surrounding tissue.
• The damaged ends of the tendon are sewn together. Care is taken to prevent damage to nearby nerves or blood vessels.
• A suture anchor may be used to reattach a completely torn tendon to the bone.
• The incision is closed and covered with a bandage.

Post-Operative Care

Prescription pain medicines or NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are used to manage pain. Your shoulder will be placed in a brace or cast and you will be encouraged to keep weight off. You will be allowed to perform specific physical therapy exercises as you heal. You may return to normal activities after 6 months.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, there are associated risks and complications may occur. Those related to rotator cuff repair may include:

• Anesthetic complications
• Infection
• Nerve damage
• Stiffness
• Tendon re-tear

Why Choose Dr. Acevedo for Rotator Cuff Repair

Patients choose Daniel C. Acevedo for rotator cuff repair because of his focused expertise in treating shoulder injuries using advanced, minimally invasive techniques.

Reasons to choose Dr. Acevedo include:

• Fellowship-trained specialist dedicated exclusively to shoulder and elbow care
• Extensive experience performing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair
• Expertise in treating partial, full-thickness, and complex rotator cuff tears
• Advanced arthroscopic techniques using small incisions for precise repair
• Focus on restoring the tendon to its natural (anatomic) position for optimal healing
• Comprehensive approach addressing associated conditions like biceps tendon injury or impingement
• Personalized treatment plans based on tear severity, tissue quality, and patient activity level
• Emphasis on minimizing pain and promoting faster, safer recovery
• Structured postoperative rehabilitation to restore motion and strength
• Goal-oriented care to help patients return to daily activities, work, and sports

Rotator Cuff Repair – FAQs

How long does it take to recover after rotator cuff repair surgery?

Recovery after rotator cuff repair surgery varies depending on the size of the tear and the procedure performed, but most patients recover in about 4 to 6 months. Physical therapy is an important part of recovery to restore strength and range of motion in the shoulder. 

Will I need to wear a sling after rotator cuff surgery?

Yes, most patients will need to wear a sling for several weeks after surgery to protect the repair and allow the tendon to heal properly. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how long the sling should be worn.

When can I return to work after rotator cuff repair?

Return to work depends on the type of job you have. Patients with desk jobs may return in a few weeks, while those with physically demanding jobs may need several months before returning to full activities.

Is physical therapy necessary after rotator cuff repair surgery?

Yes, physical therapy is essential after rotator cuff repair surgery. Rehabilitation helps restore shoulder motion, strength, and function and is critical for a successful outcome.

When should I consider rotator cuff repair surgery?

Rotator cuff repair surgery is typically recommended when a rotator cuff tear causes persistent pain, weakness, or limited shoulder motion and does not improve with non-surgical treatments such as rest, medications, injections, or physical therapy.

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