Rotator cuff repair

Rotator cuff repair is usually performed through several small keyhole incisions. The torn tendon is mobilised and secured back onto the bone using small anchors and strong sutures.

The tendon needs time to heal firmly to bone. A sling protects the repair during the early phase, followed by staged physiotherapy. Recovery is slower than after decompression and strength continues to improve for many months.

The likelihood of healing depends on the size and age of the tear, tendon and muscle quality, smoking, health conditions and careful adherence to rehabilitation.