Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Technique:

This is a surgery done through 3-4 very small incisions over the front and side of the shoulder for a tear of the rotator cuff. The surgery is done with the assistance of a camera and very small instruments to help anchor the rotator cuff back in its original position.

What to Expect-Day of Surgery:

This is an out patient surgery to be performed at one of the surgi-centers where Dr. Ahluwalia operates. The surgery takes approximately 1-2 hours depending on the complexity of the repair. You will get regional anesthesia if appropriate-an injection at the junction of the head and neck which will make your arm numb thus allowing you complete pain relief from 12-24 hours after surgery. Usually some additional anesthesia is also required so you are asleep for the procedure. The anesthesiologist will discuss this with you prior to the procedure.

What to Expect-After Surgery:

You will wake up with a bulky dressing on your shoulder and your arm will be numb. You will recover in the Recovery room for 1-2 hours till you are stable enough to go home. Your arm will be in a sling. You will go home with a prescription for pain medicine. We advise you to start taking this as soon as feeling starts to return in the arm so you don't have to play "catch-up" afterwards. You will be allowed to change the dressing in 2-3 days and cover the small wounds with a band aid or other small dressing. You will be allowed to shower in 4-5 days. You will return in 7-10 days for a follow up and at that time the sutures will be removed. At that visit, a decision will be made regarding when to start physical therapy.