34.6% of rotator cuff repair patients who are >61 years old will fail.
That’s right. Rotator cuff surgery only fully heals in about 65% of this patient population.
While this does not absolutely dictate function, it is concerning.
Why does this happen?
There are many variables. Tissue quality, age, size of tear, overall health, activity level, etc.
But the #1 reason I find in the clinic...
Lack of compliance or lack of education.
Rotator cuff repairs are very delicate in the beginning. Many patients either ignore this or aren’t educated on this.
So if you’re a baby boomer and you’re getting rotator cuff surgery please take it seriously. And find a well educated physical therapist.