Rotator Cuff Repair in Mt. Washington, KY
The rotator cuff is the group of four tendons that lift and rotate the arm. Tears cause pain reaching overhead, weakness and night pain. Partial and degenerative tears often improve with therapy and injections; full-thickness tears in active patients usually need arthroscopic repair, which J. Steve Smith, MD performs for Mt. Washington patients.
Treatment before surgery
At the Mt. Washington clinic, Kayla Troutman, PA-C and Michael Gilbert, PA-C provide ultrasound-guided injections, a home program and physical therapy. X-ray is on site; MRI is at our Newburg Road imaging center in Louisville (physician referral required).
The procedure
Arthroscopic repair reattaches the tendon to the bone with anchors through small incisions, as an outpatient at our Louisville-area surgical facilities. Bone spurs and biceps problems found at the same time are addressed in the same operation.
Recovery
A sling for about six weeks while the tendon heals, then physical therapy for motion and strength. Most patients regain overhead use by four to six months. Therapy is available at Mt. Washington and at our Louisville clinics; follow-up visits with Dr. Smith are at Mt. Washington.
Imaging and insurance
X-ray is on site; MRI, if needed, is at our Newburg Road imaging center in Louisville, including a high-field open MRI (physician referral required). We accept most major insurance plans, workers' compensation and auto-injury claims. We offer self-pay where there is no insurance, it is a non-covered service, and on a case-by-case basis.
Frequently asked questions
Can a rotator cuff tear heal on its own?
Partial tears can become pain-free with therapy and injections. Full-thickness tears do not reattach without repair, though some patients manage well without surgery.
Who performs rotator cuff repair for Mt. Washington patients?
J. Steve Smith, MD, Director of Orthopedics at Aptiva Health.
How long will I wear a sling?
About six weeks, with therapy starting during that time.
Where are the pre-op and post-op visits?
At the Mt. Washington clinic on the Highway 31E Bypass.
Call 502-909-0772, walk in 8 AM–4 PM Monday–Friday, or schedule online.