Our Summary

The paper discusses the frequent issue of rotator cuff tears, mainly in middle-aged and older people. Even with surgical advancements, these injuries often occur again due to the complex structure of the shoulder’s tendons. Over the past two decades, there’s been growing interest in using biological substances to assist in the healing process, aiming to enhance the shoulder’s recovery and prevent recurring injuries. This review aims to summarize the current data about the use of these biological enhancements in repairing rotator cuff tears.

FAQs

  1. Who is most at risk for rotator cuff tears?
  2. What is the role of biological substances in the healing process of rotator cuff tears?
  3. How does using biological enhancements help in preventing recurring injuries after rotator cuff repair?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about rotator cuff repair is to follow a comprehensive rehabilitation program after surgery to strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve range of motion. Consistent physical therapy and exercises prescribed by a healthcare provider can help prevent future injuries and promote a successful recovery. It is important to be patient with the healing process and not rush back into activities that could strain the repaired tendon.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for rotator cuff repair surgery are those who have sustained a significant tear in one or more of the tendons in their shoulder. These tears may result from trauma, overuse, or degeneration over time.

Additionally, patients who have tried conservative treatments such as physical therapy, rest, and anti-inflammatory medications without success may also be candidates for surgical repair.

Age is also a factor in recommending rotator cuff repair, with middle-aged and older individuals more commonly experiencing rotator cuff tears due to the natural aging process and wear and tear on the tendons.

Overall, patients who have persistent pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in their shoulder despite conservative treatments may benefit from rotator cuff repair surgery to improve their symptoms and restore function in the shoulder joint.

Timeline

Before Rotator Cuff Repair:

  1. Patient experiences shoulder pain and weakness, possibly accompanied by difficulty lifting or rotating the arm.
  2. Patient may undergo imaging tests such as MRI to confirm the diagnosis of a rotator cuff tear.
  3. Patient may undergo non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, steroid injections, and rest to manage symptoms.

After Rotator Cuff Repair:

  1. Patient undergoes surgery to repair the torn tendon(s) in the rotator cuff.
  2. Patient undergoes post-operative rehabilitation to regain strength and range of motion in the shoulder.
  3. Patient may use biological enhancements such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or stem cell injections to aid in the healing process.
  4. Patient continues with physical therapy and exercises to strengthen the repaired tendon and prevent future injuries.
  5. Patient gradually returns to normal activities and sports, with regular follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor progress.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a rotator cuff tear and how is it diagnosed?
  2. What are the different treatment options for a rotator cuff tear, including surgical and non-surgical approaches?
  3. What are the risks and benefits of rotator cuff repair surgery?
  4. How successful is rotator cuff repair surgery in terms of pain relief and restoring function?
  5. What is the recovery process like after rotator cuff repair surgery and what can I expect in terms of physical therapy and rehabilitation?
  6. Are there any alternative or complementary treatments that may help with my rotator cuff tear?
  7. What role do biological enhancements play in rotator cuff repair surgery and how do they work?
  8. What are the potential benefits of using biological substances in rotator cuff repair?
  9. Are there any potential risks or complications associated with using biological enhancements in rotator cuff repair?
  10. What is the success rate of using biological enhancements in rotator cuff repair compared to traditional surgical methods?

Reference

Authors: Savoie Iii FH, Delvadia BP, Tate JP, Winter JE, Williams GH, Sherman WF, O’Brien MJ. Journal: Bone Joint J. 2024 Sep 1;106-B(9):978-985. doi: 10.1302/0301-620X.106B9.BJJ-2024-0513.R1. PMID: 39216849