Our Summary

This research paper explores the question of whether adding a patch can make repairing a rotator cuff (a group of muscles and tendons in your shoulder) stronger and more stable. The researchers compared three different ways of adding a patch to standard repair methods. They used sheep shoulders for this experiment.

In the experiment, they attached a patch made from a collagen (a type of protein found in our bodies) to the tendon (a flexible but tough band of fibrous tissue that connects muscle to bone) using three different methods. They then tested how much force was needed to break it.

They found that in two cases, the patch significantly increased the strength of the repair. However, in one case, the patch actually made the tendon less strong. They also found that the way the tendon broke most often was by the tendon pulling out.

In conclusion, the study showed that adding a collagen patch can make a rotator cuff repair stronger, but it depends on how the patch is applied.

FAQs

  1. Can adding a patch make a rotator cuff repair stronger?
  2. What was the method used to test the strength of the patch in the rotator cuff repair?
  3. Does the application method affect the strength of a rotator cuff repair when a patch is added?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about rotator cuff repair is to follow post-operative rehabilitation exercises carefully to strengthen the repaired tendon and prevent re-injury. It is also important to avoid activities that put excessive strain on the shoulder to allow proper healing. Additionally, maintaining good posture and proper body mechanics when lifting or reaching can help prevent future injuries to the rotator cuff.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for rotator cuff repair are those who have a torn or damaged rotator cuff that is causing pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder. This can be due to injury, overuse, or degeneration of the tendon over time. Patients who have tried conservative treatments such as physical therapy and medications without success may be recommended for surgery to repair the rotator cuff.

The findings of this research paper suggest that adding a collagen patch to the standard repair method may improve the strength and stability of the repair in some cases. This could be beneficial for patients who have larger tears or weaker tendons that may benefit from additional support during the healing process. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of adding a patch may vary depending on the specific case and how the patch is applied.

Overall, patients who are considering rotator cuff repair surgery may benefit from discussing the option of adding a collagen patch with their healthcare provider to determine if it may be a suitable option for their individual situation.

Timeline

Before rotator cuff repair:

  1. Patient experiences shoulder pain, weakness, and limited range of motion.
  2. Patient may undergo imaging tests such as MRI or ultrasound to diagnose the rotator cuff tear.
  3. Patient may undergo conservative treatments such as physical therapy or cortisone injections to manage symptoms.

After rotator cuff repair:

  1. Patient undergoes surgery to repair the torn rotator cuff.
  2. Patient goes through a rehabilitation program to regain strength and range of motion in the shoulder.
  3. Depending on the severity of the tear, recovery can take several months to a year.
  4. Patient may need to follow up with the surgeon for regular check-ups to monitor the healing process.
  5. Patient may experience improved shoulder function and reduced pain after successful rotator cuff repair.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about rotator cuff repair include:

  1. What are the benefits of adding a collagen patch to my rotator cuff repair surgery?
  2. How will the collagen patch be attached to my tendon during the surgery?
  3. Are there any potential risks or complications associated with using a collagen patch in the repair?
  4. How will the addition of a collagen patch affect the recovery process and rehabilitation timeline?
  5. What is the success rate of rotator cuff repairs with the use of a collagen patch compared to standard repair methods?
  6. Are there any specific factors that may make me a better candidate for a collagen patch in my rotator cuff repair surgery?
  7. How long will it take for me to regain full strength and range of motion in my shoulder after the surgery with a collagen patch?
  8. Will I need any additional follow-up appointments or physical therapy sessions due to the use of a collagen patch in my rotator cuff repair?
  9. How will the cost of the surgery be affected by the addition of a collagen patch?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider if I am unsure about using a collagen patch in my rotator cuff repair?

Reference

Authors: Jung C, Spreiter G, Audigé L, Ferguson SJ, Flury M. Journal: Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. 2016 May;136(5):609-16. doi: 10.1007/s00402-016-2436-6. Epub 2016 Mar 16. PMID: 26983721