Arthroscopy · shoulder
Rotator cuff repair
Reattaches the tendons to bone when the tear, strength deficit, symptoms and the patient's goals make a realistic functional benefit possible.
General guidance
When it may be considered
- traumatic tears with loss of strength
- selected symptomatic tears
- failure of rehabilitation in suitable cases
Individual decision
How suitability is determined
Important factors include tear size, tendon retraction and quality, muscle atrophy, biological age and activity level.
An abnormal scan alone is not an indication for surgery. The symptoms, clinical examination, progression and the patient's goals must be considered together.
Surgical plan
Decisions that tailor the procedure
- whether the tear is traumatic or degenerative, and the associated loss of strength
- tear size, retraction, muscle atrophy and tendon quality
- complete or partial repair, or another reconstructive procedure
- associated procedures on the biceps tendon and protection of the repair
Alternatives
What is discussed before surgery
Physiotherapy to improve movement, scapular control and strength is appropriate for many degenerative tears. A single injection may be selected for pain relief, but repeated injections and their effect on tendon tissue must be discussed.
Before the procedure
Preparation and safety
- improve movement without aggravating an acute tear;
- plan for wearing a sling and arrange help with daily activities during the first few weeks;
- tell the medical team about diabetes, anticoagulant treatment, allergies, smoking and any active infection;
- do not stop or change long-term medication without instructions from the medical team;
After the procedure
Rehabilitation
The repaired tendon first needs protection, followed by progressive mobilisation and strengthening; small incisions do not mean that recovery can be rushed.
The exact protocol, permitted weight-bearing and follow-up schedule depend on the procedure performed and individual progress.
Informed consent
Risks and limitations
Possible complications include stiffness, failure of the tendon to heal, infection, persistent pain and injury to nerves or blood vessels.
No procedure can guarantee complete pain relief or a return to a particular level of activity.
After surgery
Signs that require prompt medical assessment
- fever, discharge, spreading redness or worsening pain at the wound;
- sudden swelling of the calf, chest pain or difficulty breathing;
- uncontrolled pain, new numbness, or a change in the colour or temperature of the limb.
For severe symptoms or an emergency, call 112. The instructions given to you at discharge take priority over the general information on this page.
Editorial responsibility
Medically reviewed content
Dr. Răzvan Anițaș
Consultant orthopaedic and trauma surgeon; PhD in medical sciences
Last editorial update: 22 August 2026
Medical sources used for patient information
First step
Consultation, diagnosis and an individual treatment recommendation
This information does not replace a consultation. Surgery is recommended only after the individual benefits, alternatives and risks have been assessed.