Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in Turkey

Rotator cuff repair surgery is a procedure performed to treat tears or damage in the rotator cuff tendons of the shoulder. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder joint and allow the arm to move in multiple directions. When these tendons become torn or severely damaged, patients may experience shoulder pain, weakness, and limited mobility.

Rotator cuff injuries can occur as a result of trauma, repetitive overhead movements, or age-related degeneration of the tendons. Rotator cuff repair surgery aims to restore shoulder function by reattaching torn tendons to the bone. In Turkey, this procedure is commonly performed by orthopaedic surgeons using modern surgical techniques, including minimally invasive arthroscopic methods.

Understanding the Rotator Cuff

The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and their associated tendons that surround the shoulder joint. These structures help stabilise the humeral head within the shoulder socket and enable movements such as lifting, rotating, and reaching.

The four rotator cuff muscles include:

• Supraspinatus

• Infraspinatus

• Teres minor

• Subscapularis

Injury to any of these tendons can impair shoulder stability and function.

Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears may develop gradually over time or occur suddenly due to injury.

Common causes include:

• Repetitive overhead arm movements

• Heavy lifting

• Sports injuries

• Falls or direct trauma to the shoulder

• Degeneration of tendons with ageing

Individuals involved in activities requiring repeated shoulder use may have a higher risk of rotator cuff injury.

Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injury

Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the tear.

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent shoulder pain

• Weakness when lifting the arm

• Difficulty reaching overhead

• Reduced shoulder mobility

• Pain that worsens at night

• A clicking or popping sensation during shoulder movement

If symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, surgical repair may be recommended.

When Is Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery Recommended?

Rotator cuff repair surgery may be considered when non-surgical treatments do not relieve symptoms.

Surgery may be recommended for patients who:

• Have a full-thickness rotator cuff tear

• Experience persistent pain affecting daily activities

• Have significant shoulder weakness

• Do not respond to physiotherapy or medication

• Sustain an acute tear due to trauma

Orthopaedic specialists evaluate the severity of the injury before recommending surgery.

Types of Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery

Several surgical approaches may be used depending on the location and size of the tendon tear.

Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Arthroscopic repair is a minimally invasive technique performed using a small camera (arthroscope) inserted through small incisions. Special surgical instruments are used to repair the damaged tendon.

Advantages may include:

• Smaller incisions

• Less tissue disruption

• Faster recovery in some cases

Open Rotator Cuff Repair

Open surgery involves a larger incision to directly access the damaged tendon. This approach may be necessary for large or complex tears.

Mini-Open Repair

This technique combines arthroscopic evaluation with a small incision for tendon repair.

The choice of surgical method depends on the patient’s condition and the surgeon’s evaluation.

Pre-Surgical Assessment

Before rotator cuff repair surgery, patients undergo a detailed medical assessment.

This may include:

• Physical examination of the shoulder

• Imaging tests such as MRI or ultrasound

• Beoordeling van medische geschiedenis

• Evaluation of shoulder strength and mobility

• Discussion of treatment expectations

These assessments help determine the most appropriate surgical approach.

The Rotator Cuff Repair Procedure

Rotator cuff repair surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Anesthesie
   General anaesthesia or regional nerve block is administered.

2. Access to the Shoulder Joint
   Small incisions are made for arthroscopic instruments or a larger incision for open surgery.

3. Removal of Damaged Tissue
   Inflamed or damaged tissue may be removed to prepare the tendon for repair.

4. Reattachment of the Tendon
   The torn tendon is reattached to the humerus using specialised sutures or anchors.

5. Closure of Incisions
   Incisions are closed and the shoulder is immobilised with a sling.

The duration of surgery varies depending on the size and complexity of the tear.

Recovery After Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery

Recovery following rotator cuff surgery occurs in several stages and requires patience and rehabilitation.

Vroeg herstel

Patients may experience:

• Shoulder pain or stiffness

• Temporary limited arm movement

• Swelling around the surgical area

A sling is usually worn to protect the repaired tendon during early healing.

Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in recovery. Rehabilitation typically includes:

• Passive movement exercises

• Gradual strengthening exercises

• Restoration of shoulder mobility

Full recovery may take several months depending on the severity of the injury.

Possible Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, rotator cuff repair may involve certain risks.

Potential complications may include:

• Infection

• Stiffness in the shoulder joint

• Failure of the tendon to heal properly

• Re-tearing of the tendon

• Nerve injury

• Persistent pain or limited mobility

Following rehabilitation guidelines can help reduce the risk of complications.

Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in Turkey

Turkey has become a recognised destination for orthopaedic procedures, including rotator cuff repair surgery. Many hospitals offer modern surgical technology and experienced orthopaedic specialists.

Patients may consider rotator cuff repair surgery in Turkey because of:

• Orthopaedic surgeons experienced in shoulder repair procedures

• Advanced diagnostic imaging and surgical equipment

• Comprehensive treatment planning

• Structured care for international patients

A consultation with a qualified orthopaedic specialist is essential before proceeding with surgery.

Veelgestelde vragen (FAQ)

How long does rotator cuff repair surgery take?

The procedure typically lasts between one and two hours depending on the complexity of the tear.

When can normal activities resume after surgery?

Light activities may resume after several weeks, while full recovery and return to sports may take several months.

Is physiotherapy necessary after rotator cuff surgery?

Yes. Rehabilitation exercises are essential for restoring shoulder strength and mobility.

Can a rotator cuff tear heal without surgery?

Some partial tears may improve with non-surgical treatment such as physiotherapy, but larger tears often require surgical repair.

Will the repaired tendon be as strong as before?

Successful surgery and rehabilitation can restore shoulder function, although recovery varies between individuals.

Conclusie

Rotator cuff repair surgery in Turkey is performed to restore shoulder stability and function by repairing damaged rotator cuff tendons. Using modern surgical techniques, including arthroscopic repair, orthopaedic surgeons aim to relieve pain, improve mobility, and allow patients to return to normal daily activities. Understanding the procedure, recovery process, and potential risks can help individuals make informed decisions when considering rotator cuff repair surgery.

Medische disclaimer: De informatie in dit artikel is alleen bedoeld voor algemene informatieve doeleinden en mag niet worden beschouwd als medisch advies. Raadpleeg altijd een gekwalificeerde zorgverlener voordat u medische beslissingen neemt.