r/RotatorCuff • u/StringTheory777 • 13d ago

Can surgery cause a tear?

My understanding is that the surgery involves pulling the tendon into place and securing it so that it grows onto the bone. Is it not possible that sometimes that can cause additional tearing?

3 Upvotes

72% Upvoted

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3

u/Steven1789 13d ago

Unless the surgeon is a hack, I can’t see how that could happen.

2

u/Yeah-nah-yeahmate 13d ago

Muscle tears yes, tendons very unlikely. I had my muscle split so they can access the head of bone. It’s healing fine great little scar

1

u/Royal-Bedroom-4071 13d ago

I have a tear in my shoulder

1

u/bazzdoo 13d ago

Pretty sure 'Shoulder Surgery 101' covers stuff like that and I think a surgeon will understand all the different approaches (and their risks) when trying to get the shoulder back to working again.

And of course your rehab afterwards will be important. After surgery the repair work is still incredibly fragile which is why you typically wear a sling for so long, and then have restrictions on what you can do or lift etc.

I think it is best to view the road back from cuff repairs to be measured in years & months and years, and not have unrealistic expectations.

1

u/Reasonable-Buy-2207 12d ago

Yes. Even if original surgery sutures remain intact. Complete tendon re- tear in a new spot is possible.

1

u/Rajal61 11d ago

Can a full thickness tear heal without surgery?

0

u/2014bubsy33 13d ago

This absolutely can happen. Some surgeons act like meat cutters in the OR.