Shoulder Arthroscopy (Rotator cuff repair) Orthopedic Surgery

Shoulder arthroscopy for rotator cuff repair is a minimally invasive surgery that uses a small camera and tools through tiny incisions to reattach torn shoulder tendons.

Shoulder Arthroscopy (Rotator cuff repair) procedure illustration

Overview

Shoulder arthroscopy for rotator cuff repair is a minimally invasive surgery that uses a small camera and tools through tiny incisions to reattach torn shoulder tendons. The rotator cuff is a group of tendons that help lift and rotate the arm. During the procedure, the surgeon cleans the area, places small anchors in the bone, and ties the tendon back to the bone with sutures. Anchors are small fasteners that hold stitches in place. Some people may also have bone smoothing or treatment of the biceps tendon if needed.

Overview Preparation Clinical Info Recovery FAQ References

Also known as: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, Shoulder scope rotator cuff repair, RCR arthroscopy

Recovery
90–365 days
Return to Work
7–180 days

Preparation & Next Steps

Everything you need to know before and after your procedure

Before Care

  • Complete any pre-op visit, imaging (such as MRI), and medical clearance the clinic requests
  • Review your medicine list, allergies, and any blood thinners with the care team; follow their specific instructions
  • Follow fasting and arrival instructions from anesthesia and the surgery center
  • Arrange a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you the first night
  • Plan time off work and help at home, as lifting and overhead use of the arm will be limited
  • Wear or bring a loose, front-opening shirt that can fit over a sling
  • Set up a comfortable rest area at home; many people prefer a semi-upright position early on
  • Have cold packs or an ice device ready if recommended by your care team
  • Avoid skin lotions or deodorants near the surgical shoulder on the day of surgery unless told otherwise
  • Confirm postoperative physical therapy scheduling and location if advised

After Care

  • Use the sling or immobilizer as instructed to protect the repair
  • Keep surgical dressings and incisions clean and dry until the care team says you can get them wet
  • Use cold therapy to help reduce swelling and discomfort as recommended
  • Take pain medicines only as directed by your clinician and pharmacy label
  • Move your fingers, wrist, and elbow several times daily to reduce stiffness unless told otherwise
  • Begin physical therapy and home exercises when scheduled; progress is usually gradual over months
  • Avoid lifting, pushing, pulling, or overhead use with the repaired arm until cleared
  • Do not drive while taking opioid pain medicine or while in a sling
  • Watch for fever, increasing redness or warmth, drainage with odor, severe swelling, chest pain, shortness of breath, or calf pain; contact the clinic promptly if these occur
  • Attend follow-up visits to review healing, remove stitches if needed, and adjust your rehab plan

Clinical Information

Important medical details about this procedure

Indications

  • Pain and weakness from a rotator cuff tear that limits daily activities
  • Failure of non-surgical care such as physical therapy, rest, or injections
  • Acute full-thickness tear after an injury
  • Loss of arm function affecting work or sports
  • Persistent night pain related to a cuff tear

Alternatives

  • Physical therapy and activity modification
  • Anti-inflammatory medicines as appropriate
  • Corticosteroid injection
  • Watchful waiting for mild symptoms
  • Open or mini-open rotator cuff repair (different surgical approach)
  • Non-repair procedures for irreparable tears (such as debridement, tendon transfer, or reverse shoulder replacement)

Risks

  • Infection or bleeding
  • Shoulder stiffness or frozen shoulder
  • Re-tear or incomplete healing of the tendon
  • Nerve or blood vessel injury
  • Persistent pain or weakness
  • Blood clots (rare)
  • Complications from anesthesia
  • Irritation from anchors or sutures

Contraindications

  • Active infection in or around the shoulder
  • Severe medical conditions that make anesthesia unsafe
  • Inability to participate in rehabilitation
  • Advanced shoulder arthritis where cuff repair may not help
  • Massive irreparable tear where repair is not feasible

Recovery Timeline

What to expect during your recovery

Recovery is gradual. Sling use often lasts several weeks, with motion and strength returning over months. Many people resume most activities by 4–6 months, and some continue improving up to 12 months.

Typical Range

90–365 days

Return to Work

7–180 days

Recovery Milestones

Day 0–14

Protect shoulder in sling; move wrist, hand, and elbow

Day 10–42

Therapist-guided passive shoulder motion

Day 42–84

Begin active shoulder motion without resistance

Day 84–168

Start light strengthening as guided by therapy

Day 120–365

Gradual return to overhead sports or heavy labor if cleared

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions and expert answers about this procedure

What is arthroscopic rotator cuff repair?

It is a minimally invasive surgery using a small camera and tools through tiny incisions to sew a torn rotator cuff tendon back to the bone with anchors and sutures.

Is this an outpatient procedure?

Most people go home the same day after recovery in the surgical center, but plans vary by health status and the extent of the repair.

How long does the surgery take?

Operating time varies with tear size and any added procedures; many cases take about 1 to 2 hours, plus time for anesthesia and recovery.

Will I need a sling?

Yes, a sling or immobilizer is commonly used for several weeks to protect the repair while early healing occurs.

Do I need physical therapy?

Physical therapy is typically a key part of recovery, starting with gentle motion and later adding strengthening over several months.

What are anchors?

Anchors are small devices placed in the bone that hold stitches. The stitches tie the tendon back to the bone to help it heal.

When can I drive again?

Driving is usually restricted while wearing a sling and until you can control the wheel safely with both hands and are not taking sedating pain medicine.

Will all pain go away after surgery?

Many people have less pain and better function, but some stiffness, soreness, or weakness can persist, especially with large tears or complex repairs.