Arthroscopic Labral And Rotator Cuff Repairs

What are labral and rotator cuff tears?

The shoulder relies on several structures working together to provide its wide range of motion. Two of these structures are the labrum and rotator cuff.

The labrum is a ring of cartilage surrounding the shoulder socket. It helps stabilize the joint and keep the upper arm bone securely in place. A labral tear can develop because of a traumatic injury, shoulder dislocation, repetitive overhead activity, or gradual wear.

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surrounds the shoulder joint and helps you lift and rotate your arm. Rotator cuff tears can happen suddenly after an injury or develop gradually from repetitive stress and age-related degeneration.

What are the symptoms of a labral or rotator cuff tear?

Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of the injury. Common signs include:

• Shoulder pain or tenderness
• Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
• Limited range of motion
• Pain with overhead activities
• Clicking, catching, or popping sensations
• A feeling that the shoulder is unstable
• Pain that interferes with sleep

Dr. Candelora evaluates your symptoms, medical history, and shoulder function to determine the source of your discomfort. Imaging studies, such as an MRI, may also be used to identify damage within the joint.

When might I need arthroscopic shoulder repair?

Not every labral or rotator cuff tear requires surgery. Dr. Candelora may initially recommend treatments such as activity modification, medication, injections, or physical therapy, depending on your injury.

Arthroscopic repair may be appropriate when symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, the tear is significant, or the injury causes substantial weakness or instability. Surgery may also be considered for active patients whose shoulder injury prevents them from participating in work, sports, or other important activities.

What happens during arthroscopic labral or rotator cuff repair?

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that allows Dr. Candelora to see and treat structures inside the shoulder through several small incisions. He inserts a small camera called an arthroscope into the joint, providing a detailed view of the damaged tissue.

Depending on your injury, Dr. Candelora can repair and reattach the torn labrum or rotator cuff using specialized surgical instruments. Because arthroscopy uses smaller incisions than traditional open surgery, patients may experience less disruption to surrounding tissue.

Recovery typically includes a period of shoulder protection followed by physical therapy. Dr. Candelora provides an individualized rehabilitation plan designed to gradually restore your shoulder’s mobility, strength, and function.