JHL
12-17-2004, 07:49 PM
I had rotator cuff surgery in October to repair a 1-1/2 inch tear of the labrum. During this procedure, the doctor also cleaned up scar tissue and bone fragments that were believed to have been caused by injuries and a previous RT surgery from 4 years ago. I reported to the doctor about 3 weeks ago that I'm having pain in areas that I've never had before. He scheduled an arthrogram that was completed yesterday afternoon.
To be clear, yesterday's surgery was not to be simply an exploratory procedure but was to also include any repairs as necessary. In fact, additional time was made available as it was expected that an open procedure (as opposed to using only the arthroscope) would be required. Anyway, while in the recovery room the doctor showed up and while I waited in anticipation to find out how well any problems were fixed, I was told "...your days of lifting weights are over. Theres nothing left of the rotator cuff." He reported that the anchors that he connected in October were still there but there was nothing attached to them. He also reported that the original tear was now complete.
I'm shaking as I type this. I'm very active in sports which include boxing, skydiving and rugby. I'm now unable to even brush my teeth with my damaged arm. I simply don't know what to do. In almost as a passing comment, the doctor mentioned grafting as an option but that it was not very effective and that his office did not perform them. I live here in the Tampa area and don't know what else to do. Please, if there is anyone out there with any ideas I'd appreciate any help or info you can provide.
To be clear, yesterday's surgery was not to be simply an exploratory procedure but was to also include any repairs as necessary. In fact, additional time was made available as it was expected that an open procedure (as opposed to using only the arthroscope) would be required. Anyway, while in the recovery room the doctor showed up and while I waited in anticipation to find out how well any problems were fixed, I was told "...your days of lifting weights are over. Theres nothing left of the rotator cuff." He reported that the anchors that he connected in October were still there but there was nothing attached to them. He also reported that the original tear was now complete.
I'm shaking as I type this. I'm very active in sports which include boxing, skydiving and rugby. I'm now unable to even brush my teeth with my damaged arm. I simply don't know what to do. In almost as a passing comment, the doctor mentioned grafting as an option but that it was not very effective and that his office did not perform them. I live here in the Tampa area and don't know what else to do. Please, if there is anyone out there with any ideas I'd appreciate any help or info you can provide.