A torn rotator cuff can be an aggravating and disabling injury for many athletes. In the worst tears, traditional surgical repair is the standard treatment. Unfortunately, nearly fifteen percent of these traditional repairs fail and patients will need additional surgery.
A new surgical procedure called the Net Bridge may change the way rotator cuff repairs are done. The technique, developed by L.A. Dodgers' team doctor, Dr. Neal ElAttrache, has shown promising results so far. The Net Bridge repairs the torn rotator cuff tendon by placing small anchors in the bone and attaching a special fiber-tape that looks and acts like a compression net over the torn tendon, affixing it to the bone. Rather than having one point of attachment, the net provides even distribution of fixation over a large area, and provides more protection and strength of the repair.
So far, the Net Bridge has been successful. According to Dr. ElAttrache, there is a much lower risk of re-injuring the shoulder with the Net Bridge procedure than with traditional repairs and most patients are able to resume activities within six weeks of the surgery.
Don't forget that the best injury treatment is still prevention. To help prevent shoulder pain and injury check out Paige's best shoulder workout.
