Our Summary

Rotator cuff tears are a common shoulder injury, especially in older people. Current treatment involves using stitches to reattach the torn tendon, but this often leads to a re-tear because the tendon doesn’t heal properly. To solve this problem, researchers have created a new type of graft made from sheep bone marrow cells that helps the tendon heal better. They tested the graft on sheep and found that it was just as strong as the traditional stitch method, but it also led to better healing and less chance of a re-tear. This new graft could potentially be used for other types of tendon injuries as well.

FAQs

  1. What is the current treatment for rotator cuff tears?
  2. How does the new graft made from sheep bone marrow cells improve the healing process of the tendon?
  3. Could the new graft potentially be used for other types of tendon injuries?

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. This may include physical therapy exercises to improve strength and range of motion in the shoulder, as well as guidance on proper lifting techniques and posture to prevent re-injury. It is important to follow the rehabilitation program diligently to ensure optimal healing and a successful outcome from the surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended rotator cuff repair are those who have a significant tear in one or more of the rotator cuff tendons, which can cause pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder. These tears can be caused by overuse, injury, or degeneration over time.

Patients who have tried conservative treatments such as physical therapy, rest, and anti-inflammatory medications without success may be recommended for rotator cuff repair surgery. Additionally, patients who have a large tear, significant pain, or loss of function in the shoulder may also be candidates for surgery.

It is important for patients to discuss their individual situation with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for their rotator cuff tear.

Timeline

Before rotator cuff repair:

  1. Injury: The patient experiences a rotator cuff tear, which can be caused by overuse, aging, repetitive overhead movements, or a sudden injury.

  2. Diagnosis: The patient may experience pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder. A physical examination, imaging tests such as MRI, and possibly an arthroscopy are used to diagnose the tear.

  3. Non-surgical treatment: Initially, the patient may undergo physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections, and rest to manage symptoms and improve function.

  4. Surgical consultation: If conservative treatments do not provide relief, the patient may be referred to an orthopedic surgeon for consideration of rotator cuff repair surgery.

After rotator cuff repair:

  1. Surgery: The patient undergoes rotator cuff repair surgery, which involves reattaching the torn tendon to the bone using stitches or anchors.

  2. Rehabilitation: Following surgery, the patient undergoes a structured rehabilitation program to regain strength and range of motion in the shoulder. This typically includes physical therapy exercises and gradual progression of activities.

  3. Healing process: The repaired tendon gradually heals over time, with the new graft providing additional support and promoting better healing. The patient may experience pain, stiffness, and weakness during the initial recovery period.

  4. Follow-up appointments: The patient has regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor progress, assess healing, and adjust the rehabilitation program as needed.

  5. Return to activities: As the shoulder continues to heal and strengthen, the patient gradually returns to normal activities and may eventually resume sports or other physical activities. It may take several months to a year for full recovery and return to pre-injury function.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with rotator cuff repair surgery?
  2. How long will the recovery process take, and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort?
  3. What type of rehabilitation or physical therapy will be necessary after the surgery?
  4. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that may be effective in treating my rotator cuff injury?
  5. How successful is the new graft made from sheep bone marrow cells compared to traditional methods of rotator cuff repair?
  6. What are the expected outcomes and success rates of using the new graft for rotator cuff repair?
  7. How long has the new graft been used in clinical practice, and what are the long-term results?
  8. Are there any specific factors or criteria that would make me a good candidate for using the new graft in my rotator cuff repair surgery?
  9. How does the cost of using the new graft compare to traditional methods of rotator cuff repair?
  10. Are there any ongoing research studies or clinical trials related to the use of the new graft for rotator cuff repair that I should be aware of?

Reference

Authors: Kennedy CS, Núñez CNV, Poli A, Vega-Soto E, Arruda EM, Larkin LM. Journal: Tissue Eng Part A. 2023 Sep;29(17-18):471-480. doi: 10.1089/ten.TEA.2022.0196. Epub 2023 Aug 31. PMID: 37542392