Repairable or Not: A Plan for Each
Most tears are treated with arthroscopic repair. For massive tears that cannot be repaired, Dr. Stapleton offers tendon transfer, and for certain irreparable rotator cuff conditions, reverse shoulder replacement.
Dr. Stapleton
Choosing a surgeon for rotator cuff repair: what to ask and why patients choose Dr. Erik Stapleton
Questions to ask any rotator cuff surgeon, and how Dr. Erik Stapleton, D.O. approaches tear size, tissue quality and rehab for patients in southern West Virginia.
Request an Appointment →What to Expect
- ✓Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair to reattach torn tendons
- ✓Treatment for full and partial-thickness tears when appropriate
- ✓Lower trapezius tendon transfer for massive, irreparable tears
- ✓Reverse shoulder replacement for certain irreparable rotator cuff conditions
- ✓Sling protection followed by guided physical therapy
- ✓Typically same-day outpatient surgery
Benefits & Outcomes
Therapy Before Surgery for Many Partial Tears
Physical therapy is first-line for many partial tears. Surgery is considered when symptoms persist or the tear is full-thickness.
Rehabilitation Tailored to the Tear
After repair, a period of sling protection is followed by guided physical therapy, coordinated through outside providers, with the plan tailored to the size of the tear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all rotator cuff tears need surgery?▾
No. Many partial tears improve with physical therapy and injections. Full-thickness tears, or tears that do not improve with nonsurgical care, may be treated with arthroscopic repair.
What if my tear cannot be repaired?▾
For massive, irreparable tears, Dr. Stapleton performs lower trapezius tendon transfer in appropriate patients. Reverse shoulder replacement is an option for certain irreparable rotator cuff conditions.
Is rotator cuff repair outpatient surgery?▾
Rotator cuff repair is typically same-day outpatient surgery, with your discharge plan arranged in advance.
How long is recovery?▾
Recovery depends on the size of the tear and the procedure performed. Return to activity is guided by your individual recovery rather than a fixed timeline.
Related Topics
Treatment
Rotator Cuff Repair
The full overview of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and rehabilitation.
Condition
Rotator Cuff Tear
Symptoms, causes, and treatment options for rotator cuff tears.
Treatment
Rotator Cuff Tendon Transfer
An option for massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears when direct repair is not possible.
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