Shoulder injuries are among the most common orthopedic concerns, especially for athletes and active individuals. The rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that stabilizes the shoulder joint, is critical for everyday movement and athletic performance. When torn or injured, it can cause pain, weakness, and limited mobility that significantly affect your quality of life.
At Angelo Mattalino, MD, led by board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Angelo Mattalino, we specialize in advanced arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. This minimally invasive technique restores shoulder function with less scarring, faster recovery, and improved long-term outcomes compared to traditional open surgery.
What Is the Rotator Cuff?
The rotator cuff consists of four muscles — the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis — and their tendons, which work together to stabilize the ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder. These structures allow for a wide range of motion, including lifting, rotating, and reaching.
When the rotator cuff is injured, patients often experience:
- Persistent shoulder pain, especially at night or when lifting the arm
- Weakness in the affected shoulder
- Limited range of motion
- Clicking, popping, or catching sensations
Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator cuff injuries are common in both athletes and non-athletes. In the Phoenix and Scottsdale sports medicine community, tears are often linked to repetitive overhead motions, heavy lifting, or acute injuries. Common causes include:
- Sports Injuries: Activities such as baseball, tennis, swimming, and weightlifting frequently strain the rotator cuff.
- Trauma: Falls, accidents, or sudden impacts can tear the tendon.
- Degenerative Changes: Over time, wear-and-tear weakens the tendons, especially in patients over 40.
- Overuse at Work: Occupations involving repetitive overhead motions, such as construction or painting.
What Is an Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair?
Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a tiny camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments to repair torn tendons. Unlike open surgery, which requires large incisions, arthroscopy involves small incisions that reduce scarring and accelerate recovery.
Benefits of Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
Smaller Incisions & Minimal Tissue Disruption
Instead of a large open incision, arthroscopy uses tiny portals that often measure less than a centimeter. This reduces trauma to surrounding muscles and soft tissue, allowing for smoother recovery and less visible scarring.
Less Post-Operative Pain
Because the procedure avoids cutting through large areas of muscle, patients often experience significantly less pain in the days and weeks following surgery. This makes rehabilitation easier and helps patients remain more active during recovery.
Reduced Risk of Infection & Complications
Smaller incisions lower the chance of infection, bleeding, and other complications associated with open surgery. With the procedure performed in an outpatient setting, patients benefit from enhanced safety and faster discharge times.
Quicker Rehabilitation
Early mobility is key to preventing stiffness in the shoulder. The minimally invasive approach allows patients to begin gentle motion exercises sooner, which can accelerate strength gains and functional recovery.
Faster Return to Sports & Daily Activities
For athletes and active individuals, getting back to training and competition is a top priority. Arthroscopic repair provides reliable tendon healing while minimizing downtime so that patients can resume sports, work, and recreational activities more quickly than with traditional surgery.
Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair vs. Other Shoulder Surgeries
While arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is highly effective for addressing tendon tears, it’s helpful to understand how it compares to other standard shoulder procedures. Dr. Angelo Mattalino will carefully evaluate your injury and recommend the most appropriate surgical option based on your tear pattern, activity level, and long-term goals.
Rotator Cuff Repair vs. SLAP Repair
Rotator cuff repair focuses on reattaching torn tendons that stabilize and move the shoulder joint, while SLAP repair addresses a tear in the labrum near the biceps anchor. Both are minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures and may occasionally be performed together when a patient has complex injuries.
Rotator cuff repair is most often recommended for patients experiencing pain with lifting, reaching, or sleeping. In contrast, SLAP repair is more common in younger athletes with overhead injuries or throwing-related instability.
Rotator Cuff Repair vs. Bankart Repair
Bankart repair treats a tear in the front of the labrum that typically results from repeated shoulder dislocations. In contrast, rotator cuff repair is aimed at tendon damage rather than labral instability.
While Bankart repair helps restore stability in patients who suffer from recurrent dislocations (especially younger, active individuals), rotator cuff repair is often performed in patients who have pain, weakness, or limited mobility from tendon injuries. Both surgeries improve shoulder function but address different anatomical structures.
Rotator Cuff Repair vs. Shoulder Replacement
Rotator cuff repair focuses on reattaching torn tendons that stabilize and move the shoulder joint. In contrast, shoulder replacement involves removing damaged portions of the joint and replacing them with artificial implants.
Both procedures aim to restore shoulder function and reduce pain, but rotator cuff repair preserves the natural joint and is best for patients with repairable tendon tears. Shoulder replacement is more often recommended for older patients with severe arthritis, irreparable cuff damage, or massive tears that cannot be surgically repaired.
What to Expect During Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
Arthroscopic Access
Dr. Mattalino begins by creating a few tiny incisions around the shoulder, just large enough for an arthroscope and surgical tools. The arthroscope provides a high-definition, magnified view inside the joint, eliminating the need for open surgery.
Tear Assessment
Once inside the shoulder, he carefully examines the rotator cuff tendons and surrounding structures. This allows him to confirm the exact size, location, and severity of the tear before proceeding.
Tissue Preparation
Any frayed tendon edges, inflamed tissue, or bone spurs are gently removed to create a clean surface for repair. Preparing the bone and tendon in this way helps ensure strong, long-lasting healing.
Anchor Placement & Tendon Repair
Small suture anchors are placed securely into the humeral bone to hold the tendon in place. Sutures are then threaded through the tendon and tied, restoring the rotator cuff to its correct anatomical position.
Additional Repairs (If Needed)
If other problems are found, such as irritation of the biceps tendon or excess scar tissue, Dr. Mattalino can address them during the same procedure. This comprehensive approach helps optimize shoulder stability, strength, and long-term function.
Signs You May Need Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
Not all rotator cuff injuries require surgery. Many partial tears and tendon irritations can be successfully managed with rest, anti-inflammatory medications, injections, or physical therapy. However, surgery may become necessary when pain and weakness persist despite these treatments.
You may be a candidate for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair if you experience:
- Ongoing shoulder pain that disrupts sleep or daily activities
- Difficulty lifting your arm overhead or away from your body
- Noticeable weakness that limits sports, work, or exercise
- Symptoms that continue for six months or longer without improvement
- A sudden injury that results in immediate loss of strength or motion
In these cases, surgical repair can restore shoulder stability, relieve pain, and help you return to the activities you love. Dr. Angelo Mattalino will perform a detailed evaluation, including imaging tests such as MRI or ultrasound, to determine whether arthroscopic surgery is the most effective option for your specific injury.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
Is surgery always necessary for a rotator cuff tear?
Not always. Many partial tears or tendon inflammation cases can be successfully treated with non-surgical options such as rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications.
However, if the tear is full-thickness, causing persistent pain, weakness, or limited range of motion, arthroscopic repair may be recommended to restore shoulder strength and function. Surgery is often the best choice for younger, active individuals and athletes who need to maintain peak shoulder performance.
Will I need physical therapy after surgery?
Yes, physical therapy is essential for a successful recovery. Rehab usually begins within the first week or two after surgery, starting with passive range-of-motion exercises and gradually progressing to active strengthening.
Over time, sport-specific or work-specific exercises are added to ensure a safe and complete return to normal activities. Committing to your therapy plan dramatically improves outcomes and reduces the risk of re-injury.
How long will I need to wear a sling?
Most patients wear a sling for about four to six weeks after surgery to protect the repaired tendon. During this period, movement of the arm is restricted to allow proper tendon healing.
We will guide you on when it is safe to gradually resume motion and light activity. Following the sling instructions carefully is crucial for protecting the repair during the early healing phase.
When can I drive after rotator cuff repair?
Driving is not recommended while wearing a sling or taking prescription pain medications, as both limit reaction time and mobility. Many patients are cleared to drive around four to six weeks post-surgery, depending on their progress and shoulder mobility. We will evaluate your recovery and confirm when it is safe to resume driving. Attempting to drive too early can compromise your safety and healing.
Will rotator cuff surgery affect my athletic performance?
With proper surgical repair and adherence to a structured rehabilitation program, most athletes return to their previous level of performance, and often stronger than before. Full recovery can take six to twelve months, with progressive strengthening and sport-specific drills integrated later in rehab.
For overhead athletes such as baseball players, swimmers, and tennis players, a careful return-to-play program is essential to restore endurance and prevent reinjury. Working closely with us and a physical therapist ensures the safest and most effective comeback.
Why Choose Dr. Angelo Mattalino for Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair?
When it comes to shoulder surgery and sports orthopedic care, expertise and trust are essential. With more than 25 years of experience, Dr. Angelo Mattalino has guided countless patients, ranging from professional athletes to weekend warriors, through successful recovery from rotator cuff injuries. His philosophy extends beyond technical precision, emphasizing individualized care that addresses each patient’s physical challenges, performance goals, and overall well-being.
As a respected orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine consultant in Arizona, Dr. Mattalino has worked closely with elite athletes, teams, and organizations that demand the highest standards of care. His reputation in the Scottsdale and Phoenix communities reflects a combination of advanced surgical techniques, compassionate patient support, and consistently outstanding results.
Restore Shoulder Function with Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair in Scottsdale & Phoenix, AZ
At Angelo Mattalino, MD, we know how frustrating and limiting shoulder pain can be, especially when it keeps you from performing at your best in sports, work, or daily life. With decades of experience in sports medicine and orthopedic surgery, Dr. Angelo Mattalino provides advanced arthroscopic rotator cuff repair techniques designed to relieve pain, restore strength, and help patients return to the activities that matter most. Whether you’re an athlete sidelined by a tear or an active adult dealing with chronic shoulder issues, our care is tailored to your unique goals.
Conveniently located in Scottsdale and proudly serving patients across the greater Phoenix area, our practice combines surgical expertise with comprehensive rehabilitation to ensure lasting recovery. From your first evaluation to your final stages of rehab, our team is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way with clarity, compassion, and proven results.
If you’re ready to reclaim your mobility and move forward without shoulder pain, contact us today to schedule your personalized arthroscopic rotator cuff repair consultation.
