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Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in India

Surgical repair of torn shoulder tendons for pain relief and function restoration

Overview

Rotator Cuff Repair is a surgical procedure to reattach torn tendons of the rotator cuff muscles to the shoulder bone. The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and enable arm rotation and elevation. Tears can occur from acute injury or degenerative wear over time, causing significant shoulder pain and weakness. At Arthoscenter, Dr. Gurudeo Kumar specializes in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, a minimally invasive technique that uses small incisions and a camera to repair the torn tendons. With over 600 successful shoulder surgeries, our facility utilizes advanced suture anchor technology and biologics to enhance healing and optimize outcomes for patients in Bihar. During arthroscopic repair, the surgeon removes any bone spurs that may be impinging on the tendons, prepares the bone surface, and uses specialized suture anchors to reattach the torn tendon to the bone. The minimally invasive approach results in less pain, smaller scars, reduced infection risk, and faster recovery compared to open surgery. Success rates for rotator cuff repair range from 85-95% depending on tear size and patient factors. Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved shoulder function within 3-6 months. Dr. Gurudeo Kumar works with specialized shoulder physiotherapists to develop tailored rehabilitation programs that protect the repair while progressively restoring strength and mobility.

Symptoms & Indications

This surgery may be recommended if you experience:

Deep ache in the shoulder, worse at night

Difficulty sleeping on the affected shoulder

Weakness when lifting or rotating arm

Crackling or popping sensation with shoulder movement

Limited range of motion, especially overhead activities

Pain radiating down the arm

Difficulty reaching behind back (e.g., fastening bra, tucking in shirt)

Shoulder pain worsening with specific arm positions

Muscle atrophy (wasting) in chronic tears

MRI confirmation of rotator cuff tear

Procedure Details

Duration

1.5-2.5 hours

Anesthesia

General Anesthesia with Nerve Block

Preparation for Surgery

MRI to assess tear size and quality of muscle/tendon. Pre-operative shoulder physiotherapy to maintain range of motion. Discussion of repair technique and rehabilitation timeline.

Surgical Steps

1

General anesthesia with nerve block for pain control

2

Patient positioned in beach chair or lateral decubitus position

3

Small arthroscopic portals (3-4 incisions) are created

4

Arthroscope camera inserted to visualize the tear

5

Any impinging bone spurs are removed (acromioplasty)

6

The bone attachment area is prepared (decortication)

7

Suture anchors are inserted into the bone

8

The torn tendon is mobilized and reattached using sutures

9

Repair strength and tension are tested

10

Portals are closed and shoulder immobilizer is applied

Recovery Timeline

What to expect during your recovery journey

Week 1-6

Protection Phase

Shoulder immobilizer worn at all times. Passive range of motion exercises only with physiotherapist. No active movement. Pain management and ice therapy.

Week 6-12

Early Active Phase

Gradual weaning from sling. Begin gentle active-assisted exercises. Continue passive stretching. Light activities of daily living.

Week 12-16

Strengthening Phase

Progressive resistance exercises. Rotator cuff and scapular strengthening. Increase range of motion exercises.

Month 4-6

Advanced Strengthening

Sport-specific exercises for athletes. Return to light overhead activities. Functional training and endurance building.

Month 6-9

Return to Activity

Gradual return to sports and heavy work. Full range of motion restored. Ongoing maintenance exercises.

Tips for Faster Recovery

Wear shoulder immobilizer for 6 weeks as prescribed

Sleep in recliner or with pillows supporting arm

Do NOT do any active shoulder movement for first 6 weeks

Attend all physiotherapy sessions - compliance is critical

Ice shoulder regularly to reduce swelling

Avoid overhead activities for 4-6 months

Do NOT lift anything heavier than a coffee cup initially

Be patient - full recovery takes 6-12 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this procedure

Q1.How long does rotator cuff surgery take?

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair typically takes 1.5-2.5 hours depending on tear size and complexity. Most patients go home the same day.

Q2.Is rotator cuff surgery painful?

A nerve block provides excellent pain control for the first 12-24 hours. After that, pain is manageable with medications. Most patients report moderate discomfort that improves significantly after the first week.

Q3.When can I drive after rotator cuff surgery?

You cannot drive while wearing the sling (6 weeks). After sling removal, you can drive once you have adequate control and are off narcotic pain medications, typically 8-10 weeks.

Q4.What is the success rate of rotator cuff repair?

At Arthoscenter, we have 85-95% success rates depending on tear size. Small to medium tears have excellent healing rates, while massive tears may have lower rates but still significant symptom improvement.

Q5.Can a rotator cuff tear heal without surgery?

Small partial tears may improve with physical therapy alone. However, full-thickness tears generally do not heal without surgery and may get worse over time. Dr. Gurudeo Kumar will assess your specific situation.

Considering This Surgery?

Book an online video consultation with Dr. Gurudeo Kumar for just ₹999 and get all your questions answered