One of the most common orthopedic treatments people get when they have chronic shoulder pain, weakness, or limited mobility from tendon injuries is rotator cuff repair. Whether you’re an athlete, a manual laborer, or simply getting older and dealing with joint wear and tear, rotator cuff issues can significantly impact your day-to-day life.
Learning about the various rotator cuff repair techniques, the associated costs, and the necessary preparation for surgery can help you thoroughly consider all your treatment options before making a decision.
What Is Rotator Cuff Repair?
To keep the shoulder socket securely holding your upper arm’s head, the rotator cuff is made up of four muscles and tendons that wrap around the joint. When one or more of these tendons is torn or hurt, whether from an accident, overuse, or the natural aging process, a person may feel signs like:
- Shoulder pain that won’t go away
- Arm weakness or trouble moving the arm
- Feeling of cracking or popping
- Shoulder pain kept me from sleeping
The medical technique known as rotator cuff repair reattaches torn muscles to the head of the humerus (the upper arm bone) and restores shoulder function.
Different Types of Rotator Cuff Repair in Singapore
1. Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
This is the latest and least invasive choice. Surgeons use a small camera called an arthroscope and minimal tools that are inserted through tiny incisions.
Good things:
- Minimal scarring
- Less time needed to recover
- Lower the risk of infection
- Outpatient treatment (often discharged the same day)
In Singapore, arthroscopy is now considered the best method for treating small to mild tears.
2. Mini-Open Repair of the Rotator Cuff
A small open cut and arthroscopy are both used in this treatment. Surgeons first examine the injury using an arthroscope and then repair it directly with stitches through a small incision.
Fits best for:
- Larger or more complex tears
- Some tears can’t be fixed with arthroscopy alone.
3. Open surgery in the past
This requires a more extended cut so that the shoulder muscles are fully exposed. Even though it is more invasive, it may be needed for large rotator cuff tears or for second surgeries (when the first one didn’t work).
4. Medical and non-surgical treatments
Some small tears or tears that only affect part of the muscle can be fixed without surgery. Some options are:
- Physiotherapy
- Medications that reduce inflammation
- Injections of corticosteroids
- Therapy with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
- Shockwave Therapy
PRP and shockwave therapies are two types of regenerative medicine that are increasingly being used in private orthopedic clinics in Singapore. They can help speed up healing in certain situations, especially for busy individuals who prefer to avoid surgery.
Summary of Rotator Cuff Repair Treatments in Singapore
Arthroscopy is well-suited for addressing mild to moderate injuries, and it typically requires minimally invasive therapy. The time needed for the process ranges from SGD 10,000 to 20,000.
Mini-open repair is a relatively invasive method that is most effective for larger or more complex tears. The healing procedure takes 4 to 8 months and costs between SGD 15,000 and SGD 25,000.
When there are significant or long-lasting tears, open surgery is the most invasive choice. Prices range from SGD 20,000 to SGD 30,000, and recovery could take 6 to 12 months.
PRP therapy is generally painless and is often used in conjunction with other methods to treat partial tears or inflammation. Each meeting costs between SGD 800 and SGD 2,500.
Physiotherapy is necessary for rehab and light cases. Sessions that last for a long time cost between SGD 80 and SGD 150. Many people use it before or after surgery because it doesn’t cause pain.
Note: Several factors influence the final cost, including the hospital’s status (public or private), the surgeon’s fee, the number of implants used, the cost of anesthesia, and the patient’s status (hospitalized or discharged).
Who Should Consider Rotator Cuff Repair?
Surgical and non-surgical methods are chosen based on several factors.
Candidates for surgery may include:
- Individuals with full-thickness tendon tears
- Those who are still in pain after conservative treatment
- Active people younger than 65 who need full shoulder function
- Patients with injuries from accidents
Candidates who don’t need surgery may include:
- People who have partial tears or inflammation
- Older people who don’t need to do much physically
- People who have health problems that make surgery dangerous
- People who have had early intervention and are looking for preventative care
Before deciding on a treatment plan, it is generally necessary to undergo a comprehensive evaluation, typically including an MRI or ultrasound.
Factors Influencing the Price of Rotator Cuff Surgery in Singapore
There are a few things that affect how much a person may pay for rotator cuff repair:
- Type of Procedure: Arthroscopy typically costs less than open surgery.
- Class of Hospital: Room and surgery fees vary significantly between public and private hospitals.
- Experience of the Surgeon: Senior doctors may charge more for their services.
- Anesthesia and Operating Time: More complicated Cases may take longer and need more advanced care.
- The use of implants, such as surgical mesh, bioabsorbable supports, and sutures, can increase costs.
- Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy after surgery is an essential part of recovery, and it may have long-term benefits.
In Singapore, Integrated Shield Plans, medical savings plans like MediSave, or insurance can help pay for some or all of these bills. Individuals who are ill should consult with their insurance company.
Do’s and Don’ts When Preparing for Rotator Cuff Repair
DO:
- Consult with your orthopedic specialist in detail about all your treatment options.
- Are there any tests that need to be performed before surgery, such as imaging scans, ECGs, or blood tests?
- If you’re going home the same day from surgery, make plans for someone to help you afterward.
- Do what you’re told about fasting before surgery.
- Wear clothes that are loose and relaxed, allowing for easy arm movement.
DO NOT:
- Ignore minor shoulder pain for months—getting help early can prevent it from worsening.
- Stop taking medications (such as blood thinners) without first consulting a doctor.
- Too soon after surgery to resume sports or other physical activities
- Don’t put off exercise that was suggested—it’s essential for a full recovery.
- Don’t expect results right away; it takes time to heal, especially for muscle injuries.
Questions That Are Often Asked
How long does it take to get better after a rotator cuff repair?
Recovery time varies from 3 to 12 months, depending on the type of tear and the specific surgical procedure. After 2 to 4 weeks, most people start passive exercises. After 6 weeks, they start active exercises.
Can I avoid having surgery at all?
When there are only partial tears or tendinopathy, conservative treatments such as PRP therapy, rest, and exercise may help. Full-thickness tears, on the other hand, usually need surgery to fix for good.
It hurts to fix my shoulder cuff.
After surgery, you should feel mild to moderate pain. Medications typically work well to control pain, and the pain usually improves over time.
When can I resume playing sports or return to work?
Within two to four weeks, office work can resume. It could take 6 months or longer if you do heavy work or sports that put stress on your shoulders.
Last Thoughts
Rotator cuff repair is a crucial treatment for individuals with a shoulder injury or dysfunction that persists despite other forms of treatment. Singapore has some of the most cutting-edge orthopedic treatments in Southeast Asia. These include minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery and cutting-edge regenerative options. When handled by experienced professionals, patients can expect world-class care.
It’s essential to consider your options, understand and assess the situation, and collaborate closely with an expert orthopedic surgeon who can help you achieve optimal results before commencing any treatment.
Artisan Sports and Orthopaedic Clinic – Dr Puah Ken Lee
290 Orchard Road,
Paragon Medical Centre #07-12
Singapore 238859
https://www.artisanorthopaedics.sg/
Phone: (65) 8909 8877