What is rotator cuff tear?

The muscle groups that provide the movement of the shoulder joint are called the rotator cuff. In young people, tears in this muscle group may occur in movements such as falling, hanging the arm, and uncontrolled weight lifting. In advanced ages, a partial and then a full-thickness tear occurs due to wear and thinning of the muscle beam. Repetitive strains, insufficient blood supply and impengement syndrome are usually the cause of this wear pattern seen in older ages.

Shortening and loss of feature (fatty degeneration) are observed in full-thickness torn muscles over time. With the pulling of the muscle, the bones in the shoulder begin to rub and shoulder arthrosis becomes evident over time.

What kind of complaints are seen when the rotator cuff is torn?

The most important complaint in patients with rotator cuff tear is pain. This pain occurs at rest and at night. The patient has difficulty moving his arm. Daily activities such as brushing hair and dressing become difficult.

How is the diagnosis made?

Diagnosis begins with a careful shoulder examination. The diagnosis is confirmed by X-ray and MRI.

Treatment

The stage of the disease is determined by evaluating the imaging images after the examination by the physician. The treatment is planned by evaluating the patient's age, occupation, sports activities and activity level. Shoulder rehabilitation, medical treatment, shoulder injections can be applied in the early stages of the disease. Surgical treatment is planned by evaluating the type and stage of the tear, which tendons it affects, together with other accompanying pathologies.

Surgical treatment is performed arthroscopically. The surgery takes about 2 hours. After the operation, 1 night of stay is sufficient. Although it varies according to the treatment applied, the use of an arm sling is usually required for 4-6 weeks after surgery. Post-surgical rehabilitation is programmed specifically for the patient.