Rotator Cuff Tears have become, unfortunately, very common. They can occur from acute injuries or just from wear and tear over time in the shoulder. Acute full thickness tears are usually repaired early. Surgical repair are also indicated for chronic tears that have failed conservative treatment such as cortisone injections, therapy, NSAID's, rest and avoiding certain activities that aggravate the shoulder.
Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair is the gold standard and it works! The hard part is keeping them repaired. As you age so does your tissue and tendons. Over time, the rotator cuff tendons loose water content, become degeneratve and can re-tear in the future. Literature reports anywhere from 10 to 90% re-tear rates based on several factors. One of the most important factors is the poor biology or condition of a degenerative rotator cuff tendon.
CuffMend with Dermal Allograft is a new technology and method to repair a rotator cuff tear. This is performed arthroscopic, minimally invasive using a dermal allograft to repair a rotator cuff tear alone or in addition to a stadard repair for augmentation. Studies have shown that dermal allograft used with a rotator cuff repair there is over 60% increase in the initial strength of the repair, greater than 50% increased healing rates and better function outcomes! That translates to less pain, faster recovery and a much less chance of re-tear in the future!!
Dr. Thomas Kovack is currently using this technology with great results to repair rotator cuff tears. If you or someone you know has a rotator cuff tear, shoulder pain that may have a tear or want to discuss this latest technology further, please schedule an appoint with him by calling 614-262-4263. Our office is in north Columbus, Ohio near the Polaris mall. You can also check out more info about Dr. Kovack and this new procedure at www.columbusshoulderdoc.com.
