Patients experiencing irreparable tears of the rotator cuff are now being treated with a new procedure that has been termed tuberoplasty. The tuberoplasty procedure involves removal of exostoses on the humerus followed by reshaping of the greater tuberosity to create a smooth, congruent acromiohumeral articulation. The coracoacromial ligament is preserved, and an acromioplasty is not performed during this procedure.
All patients had significant disabling pain and weakness preoperatively. Results after the procedure concluded pain relief was most dramatic, with completely pain-free movement. All patients were able to perform activities of daily living, and those who were employed preoperatively returned to work. All patients had residual weakness in external rotation and some ROM limitations.
After surgery Do’s and Don’ts:
- Do: Follow Instructions, Watch for infection, Cough carefully, Sanitize, Home modification checklist.
- Don't: Skip appointment, drive to soon, heavy lifting, smoking, overuse of pain meds, sports to early.
Some of the things to consider post-surgical:
- Cryotherapy or Thermotherapy
- Passive Range of Motion
- Therapeutic exercises
- Manual Therapy
- E-Stim, Laser and US
Sources: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S105827460277331X
