SHOULDER ARTHROSCOPY

Eric M. Parsons, M.D.

Q: I was diagnosed with a rotator cuff tear in my shoulder but because I am 75 years old I was told there was probably nothing that could be done for me. I am in so much pain. Is this true?

A: This is not true. Historically, patients older than 65 year of age were considered less than optimal candidates for rotator cuff repair surgery because healing of the repair was less predictable. Advances in rotator cuff repair techniques have improved to the point that patients at any age, provided that they are in good health otherwise, may benefit greatly from rotator cuff surgery. A study conducted by Jung published in the February 2017 issue of the Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery entitled, “Rotator Cuff Surgery in Patients Older Than 75 Years With Large and Massive Tears” demonstrated good results in pain relief and shoulder function in older patients undergoing rotator cuff surgery. What is more, not only were the patients in this study cohort older, but they suffered from the most severe forms of rotator cuff damage and despite their age and extensive tearing they still achieved success with a patient satisfaction rate of 80%. With our patient population remaining more active well into their 70s and 80s, our view on the most appropriate methods to treat their rotator cuff problems needs to evolve. A decision to proceed to rotator cuff surgery should be individualized to patients based on their specific circumstances and not generalized based on their chronologic age.

To learn more about rotator cuff repair visit ohioshouldercenter.com

Eric M. Parsons, M.D.

Ohio Shoulder Center for Arthroscopy Lake Orthopaedic

Associates, Inc. 36060 Euclid Ave., Suite 104 Willoughby 440-942-1050 9500 Mentor Ave., Suite 210

Mentor 440-352-1711 www.ohioshouldercenter.com