Mini-Open / Open Rotator Cuff Repair
Surgical repair of large, complex, or chronic rotator cuff tears through a small or standard incision — directly reattaching the damaged tendon to the humerus to restore shoulder strength and function.
What is Mini-Open / Open Rotator Cuff Repair?
Mini-Open or Open Rotator Cuff Repair is used for large, complex, or chronic rotator cuff tears that are not suitable for purely arthroscopic techniques. The rotator cuff stabilises the shoulder joint and powers arm movement — when severely torn, it causes significant pain, weakness, and loss of function. Through a small or standard incision, the surgeon directly accesses the torn tendon and reattaches it to the humerus bone using strong sutures and surgical anchors. This direct approach ensures excellent visualisation and secure fixation, particularly important for large, retracted, or degenerative tears.
How the Procedure Works
Pre-operative MRI Assessment
MRI determines tear size, retraction, and tendon quality; the surgical approach (mini-open or full open) is planned based on tear complexity and patient factors.
Anaesthesia & Incision
Regional or general anaesthesia is administered; a small or standard incision is made over the shoulder to expose the rotator cuff tendons directly.
Tear Identification
The torn tendon and the full extent of tissue damage — including associated inflammation or degeneration — are carefully identified and assessed.
Tendon & Bone Preparation
Torn tendon edges are freshened; the humeral bone surface is prepared to promote strong biological healing at the reattachment point.
Tendon Reattachment
The tendon is secured to the humerus using strong sutures and surgical anchors, restoring the normal tendon-to-bone connection.
Closure & Sling Support
Shoulder movement confirms a secure repair; the incision is closed in layers and the arm is placed in a sling for the initial recovery period.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →Effective for large and complex tears not suited to arthroscopic repair alone
- →Direct visualisation of the tendon allows precise, secure reattachment
- →Restores shoulder strength and the ability to lift the arm
- →Relieves chronic shoulder pain and weakness
- →Structured physiotherapy begins early to restore full function
- →Experienced shoulder surgeon optimises repair quality and outcome
“For large or retracted rotator cuff tears, an open or mini-open approach allows me to directly visualise and repair the tendon with the precision it requires. The goal is always to restore pain-free shoulder function and help the patient return to normal daily life.”
— Dr. Satish Reddy Gandavarapu, Senior Orthopaedic & Trauma Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Common Questions
Frequently Asked
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Satish Reddy and get a personalised treatment plan.