At Mattalino Orthopaedic in Phoenix, AZ, Dr. Angelo Mattalino has provided orthopedic care for patients from all walks of life for over 25 years. His philosophy of care ensures that each patient’s physical, mental, and emotional needs are understood and they receive the exact care they need to perform optimally. Among the services we offer is arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery, a procedure that restores mobility to the shoulder and helps patients get back to their favorite activities pain-free.
What Should You Expect During an Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Surgery?
During an arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery at Mattalino Orthopaedic, Dr. Mattalino will use advanced arthroscopic techniques to repair a tear in the rotator cuff. Once you arrive for the procedure, you’ll lie on your back in a semi-reclined position after receiving anesthesia. Dr. Mattalino will make a few very small openings in the skin and then insert the arthroscopic camera into one.
An Accurate Procedure
The camera will display a video image of the area on a monitor so Dr. Mattalino can use skill and precision to ensure the most accurate procedure. Once the image is visible on the screen, he will insert surgical instruments into the other shoulder openings. He will carefully inspect the shoulder, and if he finds any loose fragments or debris in the area, he will remove them.
If necessary, he will remove small amounts of bone from the bottom of the acromia, which is one of the bones that protects the area around the scapula. Removing bone tissue will prevent the acromia from causing any pinching to the rotator cuff. Then, he will repair the tear using the best technique for your needs.
Repairing the Tear
Dr. Mattalino may use sutures, anchors, or a different type of surgical device to repair the tear. The technique used during the arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery will depend on your needs and the severity of the tear. If you have sustained a severe rotator cuff tear, Dr. Mattalino may need to make an additional incision in the skin during the procedure to correct it.
Once the procedure is complete, he will close each opening made in the skin. You may need to wear a sling after the procedure and will be provided with very specific instructions about how to ensure the best recovery, including details about physical therapy to strengthen and rehabilitate the shoulder muscles and accelerate healing.
Am I a Good Candidate?
If you have sustained an injury to your rotator cuff and want to find out if you’re a good candidate for arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery, the first step is to schedule an initial consultation. During this consultation, you’ll meet with Dr. Mattalino, who will perform a physical examination of your shoulder, ask you some questions about your symptoms, and discuss your medical history.
Once he confirms that this procedure is right for you, you’ll be provided with some way to prepare for it. He will also give you more details about the recovery process so that you’re fully informed and know exactly what to expect before and after your procedure. If you don’t qualify for this procedure, Dr. Mattalino will create a customized treatment plan to restore your shoulder mobility and ensure complete healing without surgery.
Understanding the Role of the Rotator Cuff
The rotator cuff is a part of the shoulder made of tendons and muscles designed to surround the shoulder joint to hold the head of the humerus bone secure within the socket. The muscles in the rotator cuff contract with arm movements and ensure stable movements. The rotator cuff also promotes a full range of motion by allowing the shoulder joint to rotate in different directions during various movements.
Because this group of tendons and muscles is so instrumental in arm movement, any type of injury to the area will limit mobility and cause some degree of discomfort until it is fully addressed with the right treatment plan.
What Causes Rotator Cuff Injuries?
Rotator cuff injuries are common among active individuals, including elite athletes, avid gym goers, weekend sports participants, and even those who work physical jobs. A rotator cuff tear or injury severely limits the range of motion and movement of the shoulder and upper arm.
The most common cause of rotator cuff injuries is wear and tear over time. Those who engage in repetitive overhead movements or do a lot of heavy lifting can damage the tendon. Although progressive wear and tear is the most common cause, it can also occur after an accident or fall.
What Are the Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Injury?
Certain symptoms indicate a tear or injury of the rotator cuff. While some injuries don’t cause significant pain, they can cause varied levels of discomfort, reduced quality of life, and inconvenience. These symptoms include a dull ache deep within the shoulder, reduced mobility, arm weakness, and interrupted sleep, among others. Some patients with this condition cannot move their arms in certain directions due to their injury.
What Kind of Recovery Can I Expect?
After undergoing this procedure, you’ll return home the same day and will be provided with pain medications if necessary. It will take a few weeks to several months for complete healing. After arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery, physical therapy can help accelerate the healing process and restore complete shoulder mobility while also strengthening the muscles.
Patients can usually return to work within a few days, depending on the extent of their procedure. Once your shoulder completely heals, you can get back to all your favorite activities without suffering from pain, having difficulty sleeping, or having to sit out from participating in sports-related activities.
Learn More
Rotator cuff injuries can affect your physical, mental, and emotional well-being, which is why undergoing the right treatment plan is such an important aspect of the ultimate recovery process. If you have sustained a rotator cuff tear or injury, Dr. Mattalino can design a personalized treatment plan and confirm whether you’re a candidate for this procedure. Contact us today at Mattalino Orthopaedic in Phoenix, AZ, to schedule a consultation.
