Swimmer’s shoulder, or impingement syndrome caused by repetitive shoulder movements, can lead to damage and tearing of the rotator tendon, often due to injury, necessitating Rotator Cuff Repair. This repair can be either partial or complete. In this condition, patients experience inflammation, pain, weakness, and a crackling sensation in the shoulder when lifting the arm.
To address this issue, the Arthroscopic surgery technique, known as the keyhole technique, is employed with a success rate of approximately 90 percent. Small incisions are made, and a camera is used to monitor the tear, while suturing is performed using suture anchors preloaded with stitches, which are affixed to the bone. These stitches effectively join the rotator cuff tendons to the bone.
Additionally, the bony arch is smoothed by shaving, creating space between the rotator cuff tendons and the bone, facilitating free and painless movement. Typically, this surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, and patients are often discharged on the same day or the following day. An arm sling is employed for several weeks post-surgery.
Following the procedure, patients undergo physical therapy, which includes strengthening and stretching exercises. While shoulder function begins to improve within 4-6 months, full recovery may take 8 to 12 months. Importantly, the stitches dissolve naturally and do not require assisted removal.