Rotator Cuff Repair Singapore

Rotator cuff repair is a surgical procedure to reattach torn shoulder tendons to the bone. The rotator cuff is made up of four muscles and their tendons, which stabilise the shoulder joint and allow arm movement. The procedure aims to help patients regain shoulder strength and return to their daily activities with improved comfort.

Dr Chong Xue Ling
Dr Chong Xue Ling
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

Indications for Rotator Cuff Repair

Rotator cuff repair may be recommended when conservative treatments no longer provide relief:

  • Complete rotator cuff tears: Full-thickness tears often require surgery to reattach the tendon to bone. Without repair, shoulder strength and function may continue to decline.
  • Large partial tears: Tears involving more than 50% of the tendon can affect strength and movement. Surgery may help prevent progression to a full tear.
  • Acute traumatic tears: Sudden injuries from falls or sports may benefit from early surgical repair to improve healing and preserve tendon quality.
  • Chronic tears with persistent symptoms: Longstanding tears causing pain, weakness, or difficulty lifting the arm may need surgery, especially if daily function is affected.
  • Failure of conservative treatment: If physiotherapy, medications, or injections do not relieve symptoms after several months, surgery may be the next step.

Benefits of Rotator Cuff Repair

Rotator cuff repair offers substantial improvements in comfort and mobility:

Pain reduction

Most patients experience significant pain relief following successful rotator cuff repair as the torn tendon is reattached and inflammation addressed.

Restored shoulder strength

Restoring the tendon allows the rotator cuff muscles to function properly, helping patients regain strength.

Enhanced range of motion

Surgery can help restore the ability to lift and move the arm in directions that were previously limited or painful.

Return to activities

Successful repair enables many patients to return to sports, hobbies, and work activities, depending on individual progress.

Rotator Cuff Repair Surgical Techniques in Singapore

The choice of surgical technique depends on the tear’s size, location, and complexity.

Arthroscopic repair

A minimally invasive procedure using small incisions and a camera to guide instruments. This approach causes less tissue disruption and often supports quicker recovery.

Mini-open repair

Combines arthroscopy with a small open incision (about 3–5 cm), allowing direct visualisation while preserving many benefits of keyhole surgery.

Open repair

Involves a larger incision to access the torn tendon directly. It may be needed for complex or revision cases.

Double-row repair

Utilises two rows of anchors to secure the tendon, aiming to replicate its natural attachment and potentially enhance healing.

Single-row repair

Uses one row of anchors and is often suitable for smaller tears. It can be done arthroscopically or via an open approach.

Preparing for Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery

Proper preparation supports smoother recovery:

Your surgeon will review your medical history, current medications, and overall health status. Blood tests, heart monitoring, or other assessments may be requested depending on your age and medical conditions.

Recent MRI scans or X-rays help your surgeon plan the procedure and confirm the extent of the rotator cuff tear. Additional imaging may be requested if your previous scans are not recent enough.

You will receive specific guidelines about eating and drinking before surgery, typically requiring fasting from midnight the night before. Arrangements for post-operative transport and assistance at home should also be made in advance.

Step-by-Step Procedure

Understanding what happens during rotator cuff repair can help reduce anxiety and prepare you for the surgical experience.

Anaesthesia administration

General anaesthesia is used to keep you unconscious during the procedure. A nerve block around the shoulder area is often added to provide post-operative pain relief.

Initial assessment and access

The surgeon creates the necessary incisions based on the chosen technique, whether arthroscopic ports or a larger open incision.

Tendon preparation

The torn edges of the rotator cuff tendon are cleaned and prepared for repair. Any scar tissue or damaged portions are removed to create healthy tissue edges that can heal properly.

Bone preparation

The bone surface where the tendon will be reattached is prepared by removing soft tissue and creating small grooves. This preparation helps promote healing between the tendon and bone.

Anchor placement and tendon repair

Bone anchors are inserted into the prepared bone surface, and sutures from these anchors are used to secure the tendon. The repair is tested to ensure appropriate tension and coverage of the bone attachment site.

Closure

The surgeon performs a final check of the repair and surrounding structures. Incisions are then closed with sutures or staples, and sterile dressings are applied to protect the surgical site.

Post-Surgical Care and Recovery

Sling immobilisation: Your arm will be placed in a sling immediately after surgery to protect the repair and prevent unnecessary movement. The sling is typically worn for 4-6 weeks, with specific instructions about when it can be removed for bathing or gentle exercises.

Pain management: Pain medication will be prescribed to keep you comfortable during the initial healing period. Ice packs applied to the shoulder area can also help reduce swelling and discomfort during the first few days.

Wound care: The surgical site should be kept clean and dry, with dressing changes as directed by your healthcare team. You will receive specific instructions about when you can shower and how to protect the incisions.

Activity restrictions: Lifting, pushing, or pulling with the operated arm should be avoided completely for the first several weeks.

First 2-6 weeks: Focus is on protecting the repair whilst allowing gentle pendulum exercises. The sling remains in place most of the time, and pain gradually begins to improve.

6-12 weeks: Progressive physiotherapy begins with a passive range of motion exercises, where the therapist moves your arm without active muscle effort. The sling is gradually weaned off as comfort and healing progress.

3-4 months: Active exercises are introduced as the tendon repair strengthens, allowing you to begin moving the arm under your own power. Strengthening exercises start gently and progress based on healing and tolerance.

4-6 months: Return to normal daily activities and light recreational activities typically occur during this period. More demanding activities or sports may require additional time and clearance from your orthopaedic surgeon.

Regular appointments: Follow-up visits are scheduled at specific intervals to monitor healing progress and adjust your rehabilitation programme. These appointments typically occur at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after surgery.

Physiotherapy coordination: Your orthopaedic surgeon will work closely with physiotherapists to ensure your exercise programme progresses appropriately.

Imaging assessments: X-rays or MRI scans may be requested at certain points during recovery to assess the healing of the tendon repair. These images help guide decisions about advancing your activity level.

Potential Risks and Complications

While rotator cuff repair is generally safe and effective, it is important to be aware of potential risks. These may include temporary stiffness, infection, discomfort, or risk of re-tear. Consulting a qualified orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore ensures that your care is guided by clinical expertise, personalised planning, and appropriate risk management. Your surgeon will discuss how these risks apply to your specific condition and guide you through each step to support a safe recovery.

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Dr Chong Xue Ling

Dr Chong Xue Ling

Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

Dr Chong Xue Ling is a Swiss fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon specialising in foot and ankle, as well as shoulder and elbow surgery.

She is a member of the European Group for the Study and Research of Minimally Invasive Surgery of the Foot and Ankle. For shoulder and elbow surgery, she completed her fellowship at La Tour Hospital, an accredited Swiss Olympic Medical Centre and learnt innovative techniques in arthroplasty for earlier return to activity as well as the stabilising techniques, developed to have greater strength without extensive fixation.

  • MBBS (S’pore)
  • MRCS (Ireland)
  • MMed Orthopaedic (S’pore)
  • FRCS Orthopaedic (Edinburgh)

Through active involvement in research, she aims to constantly improve existing treatment in the pursuit of quality care for her patients.

Read Full Bio

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    Rotator Cuff Repair

    Frequently Asked
    Questions

    How long will I be unable to drive after rotator cuff repair in Singapore?

    Driving is typically not recommended for 6-8 weeks after surgery, particularly if your dominant arm is affected. You must be able to control the steering wheel and perform an emergency stop without pain or weakness before returning to driving.

    Will the surgery leave noticeable scars?

    Arthroscopic repairs result in several small scars, typically less than 1 centimetre each, whilst open repairs create a longer scar of 5-10 centimetres. Most scars fade significantly over time and are often covered by normal clothing.

    Will I fully regain shoulder function?

    Recovery varies depending on factors such as tear size, tissue quality, and your commitment to rehabilitation. Many patients achieve significant improvement in pain and function, though some may have minor limitations compared to their uninjured shoulder.

    What happens if I don't follow the sling and activity restrictions?

    Not following post-operative restrictions can lead to re-tearing of the repair, which may require additional surgery. The initial healing period is when the repair is most vulnerable, making adherence to restrictions particularly important for long-term success.