Rotator Cuff Tears

The four rotator cuff muscles insert into the upper part of the humerus. Two tendons run under the acromion and are susceptible to damage. Impingement of the tendons on the acromion may result in gradual attrition, partial and full thickness tears but a traumatic event may also result in a full thickness tear. Pain with shoulder motion, night pain and pain radiating down the arm are common features.  Acute tears should be repaired early. If an injury occurs and pain and weakness does not settle within two weeks an ultrasound scan or MRI should be performed. Degenerative tears that cause symptoms often benefit from physical therapy. If symptoms do not improve after a reasonable time – usually 3 months – surgery should be considered. Rotator cuff repair involves suturing the tendon back to the humerus. This may  be performed with open or keyhole surgery.