Superior Capsular Reconstruction
Superior Capsular Reconstruction Surgeon
Are you an athlete who participates in sports that involve throwing overhead? If so, you may be at risk of developing Superior Capsular issues. Superior Capsular Reconstruction surgeon, Dr. Nikhil Verma provides diagnosis and both surgical and nonsurgical treatment options for patients in Chicago who have developed Superior Capsular problems. Contact Dr. Verma’s team today!
What is superior capsular reconstruction (SCR)?
The shoulder capsule is an important stabilizer of the ball and socket joint of the shoulder (called the glenohumeral joint). The superior capsule is the upper part of this stabilizing tissue that lines the shoulder joint. Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) is a recently developed surgery technique for treating massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears. During this procedure, Dr. Nikhil Verma uses a cadaver skin graft (called a dermal allograft) to recreate the upper capsule of the shoulder.
The skin graft is attached or anchored between the upper end of the shoulder socket (glenoid) and the upper end of the humeral head (arm bone). The graft restores mechanical balance to the shoulder joint and allows the remaining portion of the rotator cuff to continue to function. After SCR patients are able to lift and move their arm with less pain.
Are you a candidate for superior capsular reconstruction?
For patients with massive rotator cuff tears which cause pain, weakness and the complete inability to raise or lift the arms, superior capsular reconstruction is a trusted treatment. Dr. Verma also recommends superior capsular reconstruction for patients who have experienced very large tendon tears that have retracted or for patients who have failed a prior surgery to repair the rotator cuff. In select cases, even these types of tears may be repairable using patch graft surgery or tendon transfer techniques.
What are the indications that I may need a superior capsular reconstruction?
If you have suffered a major rotator cuff tear, if you have failed a prior repair of the rotator cuff, and if you are experiencing pain, weakness and the inability to raise your arms, you may be a candidate for superior capsular reconstruction.
What is the technique for superior capsular reconstruction?
Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) can be done arthroscopically for select patients who have irreparable cuff tears. This minimally invasive surgical approach promotes quicker healing time with less infection, pain and more mobility after surgery.
What is the recovery time for superior capsular reconstruction?
Recovery time after superior capsular reconstruction will vary based on patient’s age, health and underlying medical conditions. Typically, the average recovery time for superior capsular reconstruction can be 8-12 months. Dr. Verma will evaluate patients undergoing capsular reconstruction on an individual basis to assure their complete recovery.
For additional information on shoulder bursitis, impingement and other conditions that cause shoulder pain, or for additional resources on Superior Capsular Reconstruction , please contact the office of Dr. Nikhil Verma, shoulder surgeon serving the communities of Chicago, Westchester, Oak Brook and Hinsdale, Illinois.
