What is a Rotator Cuff Tear? How is it Repaired?

A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of the four rotator cuff tendons are damaged or torn. Tears can be partial (affecting only part of the tendon thickness) or full-thickness (extending completely through the tendon). They can result from acute injury, such as a fall or lifting a heavy object, or from chronic degeneration over time.

Patients with rotator cuff tears typically experience pain in the shoulder and upper arm, especially with overhead activities or reaching behind the back. Weakness in the affected arm, difficulty sleeping on the injured side, and a catching or crackling sensation with movement are also common symptoms.

Diagnosis involves a physical examination to assess strength, range of motion, and specific provocative tests. Imaging studies such as X-rays (to evaluate bone structure) and MRI (to visualize the soft tissues and assess tear size and location) are typically obtained to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment planning.

When surgery is indicated, rotator cuff repair is most commonly performed arthroscopically through small incisions using a camera and specialized instruments. The torn tendon is reattached to the bone using suture anchors. Recovery involves a period of immobilization in a sling followed by a progressive rehabilitation program to restore motion and strength.