Rotator Cuff Repair
Rotator Cuff Repair surgery restores tendon integrity by reattaching the of torn ends of one or more rotator cuff tendons (e.g., supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis) to their boney attachment. Surgery is generally indicated for symptomatic full thickness acute or sub-acute tears. Chronic tears are less amenable to repair.
Benefits of Surgery
Effective Pain Alleviation
Repairing the torn tendon eliminates the source of pain caused by movement and inflammation, leading to a significant reduction in discomfort and improved sleep.
Regain Strength & Function
Once healed, the repaired tendon allows for better leverage and power in your shoulder, enabling you to lift your arm overhead and perform everyday tasks with greater ease and strength.
Prevent Tear Progression
Surgical repair can prevent the rotator cuff tear from enlarging further, which can lead to more complex problems like rotator cuff arthropathy and potentially avoid the need for more extensive surgery in the future.
Procedure Information
Dr Richmond has sub-specialist expertise in Rotator Cuff Repair surgery.
Following a thorough assessment, including physical examination, MRI, and consideration of your age and activity level – surgery may be recommended.
Rotator Cuff Repair is typically performed arthroscopically (minimally invasive surgery) through small incisions, involving:
Debridement
Removing any frayed or damaged tissue and inflamed synovium (joint lining), and mobilising the torn tendon ends in readiness for repair.
Repair
Using sutures (stitches) and small anchors, the torn tendons are reattached to the humerus (upper arm bone).
A tear in one or more of the tendons that make up the group of rotator cuff muscles which surround the shoulder.
Conditions Treated
During your consultation, Dr Richmond will carefully evaluate your condition and discuss all management options with you, including non-surgical treatments, so you can confidently decide on the right path forward.
Dr Bradley Richmond
Orthopaedic Surgeon - BHB, MBChB, FRACS (Orth)
Dr Bradley Richmond graduated as a Doctor from the University of Auckland in 2004 and trained as a general Orthopaedic Surgeon in New Zealand, obtaining fellowship of The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in 2014. He then spent a further 18 months undertaking subspecialty fellowship training in Sydney, working with some of the most respected Knee and Shoulder surgeons in Australia.
For 10 years, until early 2026, Dr Richmond worked as a Staff Specialist at Rockhampton Hospital – providing public Orthopaedic care to Central Queenslanders, and providing training and supervision to Orthopaedic Trainees, Junior Doctors, and International Medical Graduate Specialists.
In April 2024, he commenced part-time private practice, and now does this full-time; focusing exclusively on his areas of specialist expertise – knee and shoulder surgery.
Operating Locations
Consulting Locations
