What is the difference between a rotator cuff repair and acromnioplasty?

Different parts: An acromioplasty is when bone on the acromion, which is above the rotator cuff, is shaved down. This is typically done if there is a large bone spur coming off the acromion. The rotator cuff attaches to the humerus, and the muscles of the rotator cuff pull on the cuff to elevate the shoulder. If the cuff is torn, it is repaired back to the humerus.

Shoulder: A rotator cuff repair is a fixation of a torn tendon. An acromioplasty is the shaving of a bone spur which maybe impinging on the rotator cuff. This also provides more room for the rotator cuff to function.

Repair vs clean-up: A rotator cuff repair involves finding the torn end of the rotator cuff and securing it to the bone. An acromioplasty involves removing bone spurs from the acromion. Both procedures are commonly done together if the rotator cuff is torn. Inflamed and hypertrophic bursal tissue is also removed with both procedures.