Thanks to modern technology, Dr. Mufaddal Gombera can offer minimally invasive care like arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. During a shoulder arthroscopy, Dr. Gombera uses a small instrument called an arthroscope to treat the affected joint. With the help of a few small incisions and thin instruments, he mends the torn tendons, restoring the function and mobility of the joint. To learn how Dr. Gombera goes through this intricate process and what you can expect during a shoulder arthroscopy, make sure to keep reading this blog.
What Happens During an Arthroscopic Cuff Repair?
An arthroscopic cuff repair is needed when a patient experiences a rotator cuff tear. While this is a common shoulder injury, surgery might be required if over-the-counter pain relievers and physical therapy don’t work.
Not to mention, depending on the severity of the injury, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend an arthroscopic cuff repair. This is a minimally invasive procedure that helps combat pain, weakness, and limited shoulder movement. Moreover, during an arthroscopy, the surgeon is able to handle precise treatment of the torn cuff with the help of small incisions. This reduces the recovery time compared to traditional open surgery, as there aren’t any big marks left.
If you have a damaged rotator cuff, Dr. Gombera will make sure to put it back together. He will bring the tendon’s edges back in shape, stitching them with professional anchors. Then, he will use small metal or plastic rivets to keep the tendon attached to your bone. These rivets stay in your shoulder after surgery, so you won’t have to have another surgery for removal.
Essentially, the treatment begins by analyzing the full thickness of the rotator cuff tear and the relative tendons. After the tear is identified, Dr. Gombera will place the first set of anchors underneath the tear along the medial row, which counts as the anterior anchor. He will then use a self-retrieving suture passer to pass the first (anterior) suture tapes through the tendon. When the tapes have been secured, the same process will be repeated four times to ensure all the anchors have passed through the medial row.
Once the sutures have been placed through the tendon, a suture limb from each medial anchor is retrieved. The anchors are then threaded through a second set of anchors that are placed on the outer aspect of the tear, which is known as the lateral row. This suture configuration allows for a broad area of healing and a stable construct. That is to say, you can get through an accelerated rehab program and physical therapy after surgery without having to wait for weeks on end for your shoulder to heal.
When everything is done, a double-row knotless suture tape technique will be performed to tie the rotator cuff together, marking the end of the arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.
Bottom Line
Dr. Gombera treats athletes and non-athletes alike for shoulder, hip, and knee-related problems. No matter what your profession is, he will find a solution for your pain, making sure you can get back to doing what you love in no time!
To schedule an appointment for an inspection or orthopedic surgery, contact Mufaddal Gombera, MD, today at (713) 794-3457.
