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Debridement for Rotator Cuff Disorders - Topic Overview

Debridement involves removing loose fragments of tendon, thickened bursa, and other debris from around the shoulder joint. By clearing damaged tissue from the region of the shoulder joint, it helps the doctor to see the extent of the injury and determine whether you need more surgery.

Debridement may be done in arthroscopic surgery (through two or three tiny incisions) or in open surgery (usually one larger incision). It is usually the first step in rotator cuff surgery. Sometimes debridement is done with arthroscopic surgery before an open surgery to repair a rotator cuff tear.

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Try Heat or Ice

Heat helps soothe stiff joints and relax muscles. Cold helps numb sharp pain and reduce inflammation. Use temperature therapy to complement meds and self-care. It's simple, affordable, soothing -- and you have to sit down to use either one. Conditions: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, back pain, fibromyalgia, neck pain Symptoms: stiffness, aching, muscle pain, pain, lower back pain, upper back pain, muscle spasms, arm pain, buttock pain, foot pain, hip pain, leg pain, neck pain, shoulder...

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Debridement may also be done without rotator cuff repair to help relieve pain and other symptoms that have not improved with other treatment. This may be an option for people who don't want to have open surgery.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: January 07, 2010

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.