A should tear is a common condition causing pain and disability among adults. It is sometimes called a rotator cuff tear. The includes four muscles and several tendons, and makes it possible for your arm to rotate.
Reasons for Surgery
A shoulder tear may require surgery if the tear is recent and/or very painful, nonsurgical treatment didn't help, or the tear is in the shoulder of the person's dominant arm.
Surgery
The type of should-tear surgery performed will depend on where the tear is located, its size and its shape. Most procedures will be performed as outpatient surgery.
Arthroscopic Repair
The physician will insert a fiber-optic scope and small surgical instruments into small incisions. She uses a television monitor to see the shoulder tear and surgically repair it.
Mini-Open Repair
Mini-open repair surgery is performed using newer techniques and instruments. This allows surgeons to repair a shoulder tear by making a very small incision, usually between 4 cm and 6 cm.
Open Surgical Repair
Traditional surgery is needed if the shoulder tear is large or complex. You also may need it if reconstruction or replacement of the shoulder joint is necessary.
Tags: rotator cuff, , shoulder tear, surgery performed