Frequently Asked Questions

Arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery usually takes 1-2 hours. Open surgery, to repair rotator cuff injuries, may take longer depending on the extent of the damage to your shoulder.

There are many different types of shoulder surgeries. Discuss with your surgeon which option is best for you. Learn more about the procedures offered at Temple Health.

Today’s advances in shoulder replacement surgery offer artificial joints that are expected to last around 15 years.

A reverse shoulder replacement can address pain and arthritis caused by large rotator cuff tears. In this procedure, a plastic cup replaces the socket part of the shoulder joint and is attached to the upper end of the humerus. A metal ball is fixed to the socket.

Typically, a total shoulder replacement takes roughly 2-3 hours.

A shoulder replacement surgery replaces the ball-and-socket shoulder joint with metal and plastic pieces and is used to treat severe arthritis or complex fractures. Rotator cuff surgery treats damaged muscles and tendons around the shoulder joint to restore strength, function and improve range of motion of the shoulder.

You may need to wait approximately 6 weeks before getting behind the wheel. You will require use of a sling for 6 weeks to allow the tendon to heal to the bone during that time. Your doctor lets you know when it’s safe to drive.

A rotator cuff tear will not heal on its own, however small injuries may be treated with rest, physical therapy, steroid injections and other conservative treatment options. Your orthopedic or sports medicine provider recommends the best treatment for you, based on the extent of your injury and goals for treatment.