Rotator cuff tears typically occur from sports injuries or overuse. A rotator cuff tear can be quite painful, and may lead to shoulder weakness and inflammation. The torn tendon can be surgically repaired, but the healing and rehabilitation process with standard rotator cuff repair methods is often long and painful.
Dr. Scott Sigman is proud to offer a new option for patients: the ConMed BioBrace. Comprised of a combination of synthetic and biologic materials, the BioBrace implant encourages tendon healing and improves the strength of the repaired tendon. This can in turn reduce recovery time and pain during healing.
When is rotator cuff repair surgery recommended?
The rotator cuff is made up of a group of tendons and muscles that support the shoulder joint. It allows for complete movement of the shoulder while keeping the ball of the arm bone in the shoulder socket. Injury or overuse can lead to damage or tears in the rotator cuff, which can lead to pain, weakness and inflammation.
Surgery may be recommended to repair a torn rotator cuff, especially in cases when patients are more active, participate in sports, or work a job that requires physical labor. Patients who have significant pain, weakness, and loss of shoulder function may also benefit from rotator cuff repair surgery.
Though rotator cuff repair is typically successful in relieving shoulder pain, it does not always restore full shoulder strength. However, the ConMed BioBrace implant can improve the results of rotator cuff surgery.
What happens during rotator cuff repair with the ConMed BioBrace?
The current standard for rotator cuff repair involves arthroscopy. During an arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, a small incision is made to insert a tiny camera called an arthroscope. The arthroscope displays a video feed on a monitor, and additional small incisions are made to insert surgical instruments and repair the rotator cuff. Arthroscopic surgery allows Dr. Sigman to perform the procedure without having to make a large incision.
The torn tendon is stitched back together during the procedure. However, the standard technique can take up to 6 months to heal, and the rehabilitation process can be very painful.
During a rotator cuff procedure with the BioBrace, Dr. Sigman repairs the torn tendon, then places the BioBrace to act as a scaffolding for the repair. This creates an ideal environment for supporting new tissue growth and strengthens the repair to allow for earlier assisted range of motion.
What are the benefits of rotator cuff repair with the ConMed BioBrace?
There are several ways that patients benefit from the BioBrace compared to standard rotator cuff repair methods, including:
- Less pain after surgery compared to traditional methods
- Quicker rehabilitation time
- Quicker return to work and activities
- Reduced chance of tearing the rotator cuff again
What is the recovery process like after a rotator cuff repair with the ConMed BioBrace?
Dr. Sigman believes early range of motion is important after rotator cuff repair. The ConMed BioBrace strengthens the repair, allowing patients to begin moving the shoulder sooner after surgery.
Within 1-2 weeks of surgery, most patients begin physical therapy. Most patients are out of a sling within 2 weeks of surgery.
Why choose Dr. Scott Sigman for Rotator Cuff Repair with the ConMed BioBrace?
Dr. Scott Sigman is a board certified orthopaedic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. Specializing in sports medicine, he is committed to advancing the field of orthopaedic surgery, and stays at the forefront of new developments like the ConMed BioBrace to continue improving upon results and recovery for patients.
Dr. Sigman frequently contributes to numerous publications and research studies. He has given presentations, lectures, and instructional courses worldwide. He has also provided orthopaedic care to several teams at the collegiate and professional levels, including the US Ski Jump Team, UMASS Lowell, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Dodgers, LA Angels, LA Kings, Anaheim Mighty Ducks, LA Galaxy and USC football.
Schedule a Consultation for Rotator Cuff Repair with the ConMed BioBrace in North Chelmsford, MA
If you would like to learn more about rotator cuff repair with the ConMed BioBrace and find out if you are a candidate for this procedure, please contact our office at (978) 454-0706. to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sigman.