Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair Singapore

Appointments by prior arrangement

Minimally Invasive Surgery for Rotator Cuff Tears

Dr Puah Ken Lee is a shoulder specialist in Singapore with experience in treating rotator cuff tears, particularly in patients with persistent pain, weakness or loss of function.

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is a minimally invasive (keyhole) surgical technique used to repair torn tendons of the shoulder.

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is typically recommended when non-surgical treatment does not provide sufficient relief or when the tear significantly affects function.

What Is a Rotator Cuff Tear?

The rotator cuff consists of a group of tendons that help stabilise and move the shoulder joint.

A tear may result in:

• Shoulder pain
• Weakness, especially when lifting the arm
• Difficulty with overhead activities
• Night pain affecting sleep

→ You may also wish to read about rotator cuff tear treatment

In selected cases, adjuncts such as a biological augmentation may be considered to support tendon healing.

What Is Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair?

Arthroscopic repair is performed using small incisions and a camera (arthroscope) to visualise the joint.

The torn tendon is reattached to the bone using specialised instruments and anchors.

This technique allows for:

• Precise repair
• Minimal soft tissue disruption
• Faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery

Bioinductive Collagen Scaffold

In selected cases, a bioinductive collagen scaffold, such as Regeneten Bioinductive Implant or other forms of biological augmentation, may be used to support healing of the rotator cuff.

This implant is designed to:

• Encourage the body’s natural healing response
• Promote new tendon-like tissue formation
• Provide additional support in partial tears or selected repair cases

Dr Puah has undergone training in the use of bioinductive collagen scaffolds and will advise whether this is appropriate based on the pattern of the tear and individual patient factors.

Benefits of Arthroscopic Repair

• Good functional outcomes in appropriate cases
• Minimally invasive (keyhole surgery)
• Smaller incisions
• Reduced post-operative pain
• Earlier rehabilitation

The use of adjuncts such as a collagen scaffold or acellular dermal matrix may be considered in appropriate cases to optimise tendon healing, although suitability varies between patients.

Recovery After Surgery

Recovery typically involves:

• A period of sling immobilisation
• Structured physiotherapy programme
• Gradual return to daily activities and sports

Full recovery may take several months, depending on the severity of the tear and individual factors.

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, potential risks include:

• Infection
• Stiffness
• Re-tear (particularly in larger tears)
• Incomplete recovery of strength

A detailed discussion will be undertaken during consultation.

Related Shoulder Topics

• Rotator cuff tear treatment
• Shoulder arthroscopy (keyhole surgery)
• Shoulder specialist assessment

Why Choose Dr Puah

• Shoulder-focused orthopaedic practice
• Experience in arthroscopic shoulder surgery
• Individualised treatment planning
• Located at Mount Elizabeth Novena

Dr Puah is regularly invited as faculty at regional and international meetings to teach shoulder and arthroscopic surgical techniques.

Book a Consultation

If you have been diagnosed with a rotator cuff tear or are experiencing persistent shoulder pain, a specialist assessment can help determine whether surgical treatment is appropriate.

Orthopaedic conditions can affect function, performance and quality of life. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can improve outcomes.
Dr Puah Ken Lee is an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore specialising in shoulder, elbow and sports injuries, and patients are encouraged to seek evaluation for persistent symptoms.