⁠Rotator Cuff Repair

A rotator cuff tear is a leading cause of shoulder pain and disability in adults. When the rotator cuff is torn, it can significantly weaken the shoulder, making even simple daily activities, such as combing your hair, reaching for objects, or getting dressed, both painful and challenging.

The shoulder is a ball and socket joint comprised of the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone). The head of the humerus fits into a shallow socket in the scapula, stabilized by the rotator cuff, a group of four muscles and their tendons that form a protective covering. This structure attaches the humerus to the shoulder blade, allowing arm lifting and rotation. Between the rotator cuff and the acromion, a bursa acts as a cushion, enabling smooth tendon gliding. Injury to the rotator cuff may cause the bursa to be inflamed, leading to discomfort and restricted movement.

A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more tendons of the shoulder partially or fully detach from the humerus, often affecting the supraspinatus tendon. Tears frequently begin with fraying and may worsen over time, potentially resulting from lifting heavy objects or repetitive strain. There are different types of tears for example partial tears, full thickness incomplete tear, and full thickness complete tear. With partial tear, the tendon remains attached to the bone but is thinned, as the tear does not extend through its entire thickness. For full thickness incomplete tear, part of the tendon detaches, leaving a segment still connected to the bone. In full thickness complete tear, the tendon completely detaches from the bone, creating a gap or hole in the tendon.

Rotator cuff tears are caused by injury or gradual wear. A sudden injury, such as falling on an outstretched arm or lifting a heavy object, can lead to an immediate tear, often alongside injuries like dislocated shoulders or fractures. Some tears occur gradually, caused by tendon degeneration with age. This may be due to repetitive stress from activities like weightlifting. Aging reduces blood supply to the tendons, impairing their ability to repair minor damage, leading to eventual tears.

The symptoms of a rotator cuff tear depend on whether the injury is acute or degenerative. Acute tears, such as those from a fall, cause sudden, intense pain, a snapping sensation, and immediate upper arm weakness. Degenerative tears develop gradually, with initial mild discomfort that progresses to pain at rest or during sleep. Some tears, however, may not cause pain but still lead to arm weakness.

Eligible candidates for rotator cuff repair surgery are individuals who experience persistent shoulder pain that does not improve with nonsurgical methods such as physical therapy. Surgery may be recommended for active individuals, particularly if their profession requires frequent overhead arm movements.

Rotator cuff repair surgery may also be appropriate for symptoms persisting for 6 to 12 months, with large tears exceeding 3 cm and good tissue quality, significant weakness or loss of shoulder function, or tears resulting from recent traumatic injuries.

Rotator cuff repair surgery involves reattaching the torn tendon to the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) to restore shoulder function and reduce pain. A partial rotator cuff tear may be treated with a debridement procedure, where the damaged portions of the tendon are trimmed or smoothed. For a complete tear, surgical repair involves reattaching the tendon to its original site on the humerus. This repair is accomplished by stitching the tendon back in place.

The surgical repair of a rotator cuff tear can be performed using arthroscopy, open surgery, or a combination of both techniques. Rotator cuff repair can be done under general or regional anesthesia, depending on the procedure.

• Post-surgery pain is normal, your doctor will prescribe medications such as opioids, NSAIDs, and local anaesthetics, to help manage pain.
• Rehabilitation involves using a sling for 4 to 6 weeks to protect the repaired tendon. During this time, physical therapy will help improve the range of motion.
• The recovery process is gradual and success largely depends on your commitment to the rehabilitation program.

• You may be given a sling or immobilizer to wear after surgery.
• Keep the surgical area clean and dry.
• Take prescribed pain relievers, avoid medications like aspirin, which can increase bleeding risks.
• Follow a rehabilitation program as advised by your doctor for strength and flexibility.
• Apply ice to the shoulder several times a day for the first few days to help reduce swelling.
• Full recovery from rotator cuff surgery can take 4 to 6 months, this depends on factors such as the size of the tear.
• Don’t drive until your doctor gives you the go ahead.
• At Prospero medical, our commitment to patient care doesn’t end with the surgery; we follow up for 6 months up to a year after the procedure. Patients should notify us immediately if anything feels off during their recovery process, rather than seeking help from other specialists.

Turkey has become a global leader in medical tourism, renowned for its advanced healthcare services and affordable treatment options. For patients seeking surgeries such as rotator cuff repair, Turkey’s reputation for medical expertise and innovative practices makes it a favored destination worldwide. Here is what makes Turkey stand out:

• Turkey’s orthopedic surgeons are globally trained and experienced, ensuring precision and success in procedures like rotator cuff repair surgery.
• Turkey’s hospitals feature modern operating rooms and the latest medical technologies.
• Turkish healthcare providers emphasize personalized aftercare, offering physiotherapy and regular check-ups to facilitate a smooth recovery process.
• Medical procedures in Turkey are significantly affordable compared to the U.S or Europe without compromising on quality.
• From the vibrant streets of Istanbul to serene coastal towns, Turkey’s diverse landscapes offer an ideal setting for post-operative recovery, often paired with physiotherapy and wellness programs.

Selecting the right clinic for surgery is a crucial decision that involves weighing a few key factors. In today’s age of overwhelming commercial advertising and social media campaigns, it can be difficult to separate the genuinely reliable options from those simply riding the wave of marketing trends. So, how can you ensure that you’re making an informed choice? What should guide your shortlisting process to ensure you select a clinic that meets your medical and personal needs with the highest standards? To help you make an informed decision, here are the key criteria to consider when choosing the right clinic for your surgery;

• Trustworthy and transparent medical advice, free from any commercially-oriented interests.
• A clinic that shows genuine effort to establish a strong rapport with the patient, allowing for empathy and understanding their concerns, while effectively managing patient expectations.
• Prioritizing the patient’s well-being and safety above all else.

For the appraisal of a realistic and accurate price for the treatment, it is essential to evaluate the following factors in detail, as they collectively influence the overall cost and quality of care:

• The clinic’s professional standing and reputation in the medical field.
• The nature of the procedure and the specific complexities involved.
• The credentials of the surgeon and the high-quality aftercare services to support recovery.
• Clearly defined terms and conditions, outlining clinical liabilities in a transparent manner, ensuring patients are fully informed and protected under the appropriate legal framework.

Rotator cuff repair prices in Turkey can vary based on the factors mentioned above. While cost is often a major consideration when seeking surgery abroad, focusing on the price without checking whether the clinic meets the essential quality criteria may lead to serious, irreparable issues and ultimately cost more in the long run. At Prospero medical, we prioritize transparent pricing, where each service component is clearly outlined, allowing patients to make informed decisions. We aim to provide the most realistic pricing that aligns with the high level of medical services we offer and the qualifications of our surgeons. We are committed to providing high-quality, professional medical services that are aligned with the most realistic and value driven price structure.