The rotator cuff, is a broad, tendinous structure that forms from a confluence of tendons that, together, are responsible for the major functions and motions of the shoulder. When torn sufficiently, the only successful treatment option is surgical repair. While the goals of the procedure are increased mobility and strength of the shoulder, several side effects can occur as a result of surgical intervention. Side effects to rotator cuff surgery do not necessarily equate to adverse effects or complications. If side effects become lengthy or difficult to eradicate or manage, then they become adverse effects.
Pain
Having a rotator cuff tear in itself is painful enough, and it is certainly expected that some transient discomfort will exist post-operatively. There is more than one approach to the procedure, but all involve trauma to muscle, skin and other soft tissues as a necessary evil to the surgery. Consequently, there will be some level of pain after surgery as the body heals.
The surgical procedure involves the cutting of tissues, hence the disruption of tiny nerve fibers that transmit pain impulses. It takes time for the healing process to restore these nerve fibers.
Stiffness
Shoulder stiffness is another effect, as excessive motion can damage or destroy the repair itself. Once the appropriate time has passed, motion will be re-introduced in an incremental fashion, during the mobilization phases, mild to moderate stiffness can be expected, as tissue and muscle that hasn't been moved for some time, is being re-educated to motion and stretching maneuvers.
Weakness
Rotator cuff surgery can be accomplished in two major fashions; the traditional "open" procedure where an incision is made into, and through, the deltoid shoulder muscles, and arthroscopically, a less invasive approach. With open rotator cuff surgery, the cut muscle fibers can be painful to activate after surgery and may not want to function properly causing weakness with arm and shoulder movements. As the healing process progresses, and as pain lessens, better function returns and strength is improved.
Frozen Shoulder
While stiffness is considered a common side effect from rotator cuff repair, the development of significant scar tissue, called adhesions, can occur with any patient undergoing this surgery. The technical term for this condition is adhesive capsulitis. Frequently, a patient doesn't realize that he has developed a frozen shoulder until it becomes evident he cannot perform routine shoulder functions and activities such as reaching up into the kitchen cupboards or brush his hair.
Anesthesia Side Effects
The surgical procedure isn't the only thing that can cause side effects. Anesthesia can also produce various side effects as well. These may include, nausea/vomiting, confusion, pain (in cases of spinal anesthetics), broken teeth from intubation (placing a breathing tube into the windpipe) and hoarseness from the endotracheal tube placement.
