I am going to have an operation to repair the torn rotator cuff tendon in my shoulder. What can go wrong with this kind of surgery?

Surgery to repair the rotator cuff is fairly quick and simple these days. The doctor may use an arthroscope to enter the joint through a small hole instead of using a large incision. The torn tendon is sewn together. If the tendon was pulled from the bone, the surgeon will reattach it.

After any operation, there is a risk of infection either in the joint or on the skin. This does not happen very often and can be treated with antibiotics. Rarely, there may be numbness in the hand on the operated side. This may last up to 48 hours and is usually caused by the traction or pull used on the arm during the operation.

It is best to talk with your doctor before any operation about your concerns.