A member asked:

Mom has retorn her rotar cuff she had surgery on11 years ago. will it heal on its own or is suegery next. she is 77 years old.?

9 doctors weighed in across 3 answers

Won't heal: It will not heal buts depending on her activity level, health, size of tear, and condition of muscle surgery may not be recommended. There also may exist other treatment options.

Answered 3/26/2013

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Dr. Gregory Harvey answered

Specializes in Orthopedic Surgery

Rotator tear: She may not need surgery. I would have her try therapy which sometimes can help avoid the need for a repair. She may also need a MRI to determine the severity of the tear.

Answered 11/20/2014

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Re-tear rotator cuff: A torn tendon will not heal itself. At age 77, with history of prior rotator cuff repair, i would be cautious of surgery to repair the tear. Tissue will likely be very thin and flimsy, and may not heal. I would max-out non-operative treatment (pt, cortisone injections). If still painful/weak, xrays to check for arthritis. Maybe a reverse total shoulder replacement if painful and weak. Good luck!

Answered 7/5/2012

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