Shoulder surgery is often the best course of action for irreparable rotator cuff tears. Depending upon the area’s condition, you may opt for a tendon transfer, complete shoulder replacement, or other type of surgical resolution.
Dedicated board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist Robert A. Mileski, MD, offers a variety of options for irreparable rotator cuff tears at Phoenix Orthopedic Group in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Your rotator cuff helps your shoulder joint move smoothly. Composed of tendons and muscles, it connects your upper arm bone, known as the humerus, to your shoulder blade, or scapula. When your tendon is chronically torn, the muscle becomes scarred.
More than 2 million people endure rotator cuff pain each year in the United States. Depending on the elasticity and strength of the area, you may experience an irreparable tear.
Your rotator cuff tear is considered irreparable for a variety of reasons, such as:
Over time, smaller tears may create irreversible muscle damage, especially in older patients. Fortunately, Dr. Mileski offers treatment to ease your pain and restore mobility.
While you can’t repair an irreparable tear, we offer a range of solutions to improve your shoulder strength and mobility. These include:
Dr. Mileski may exchange your damaged tendon with a healthy one if he can’t reattach it to the bone. As long as other shoulder tendons and muscles are viable, he surgically transfers them to the problem area. Combined with extensive post-op physical therapy, this procedure offers a good outcome, especially for younger patients.
Dr. Mileski removes inflamed, damaged tissue and cleans cartilage and other debris from your shoulder joint during shoulder debridement, aka abrasion arthroplasty.
When the cartilage and bone in your shoulder joint become damaged, replacing the area with metal and plastic implants may provide the best solution.
Dr. Mileski uses graft tissue to rebuild the area between your rotator cuff and humeral head, which lies at the top of your upper arm.
Depending on your age, arthritis, and shoulder mobility, we may recommend physical therapy to strengthen your deltoid and compensate for the damaged rotator cuff. Anti-inflammatory medications and injections may also help relieve your pain in lieu of surgery.
If you experience ongoing shoulder pain, swelling, and/or tenderness, it may signify a rotator cuff injury. The sooner you deal with potential tears the better, before they become irreparable.
Dr. Mileski offers myriad treatments for irreparable rotator cuff tears and other orthopedic problems. If you wish to discuss a possible tear or other orthopedic issue, simply schedule a consultation with Dr. Mileski at Phoenix Orthopedic Group today by calling 602-277-1558 or using our online booking.
