Shoulder Replacement

Reverse total shoulder replacement is an alternative treatment to usual shoulder replacement. The procedure was designed for people with large tears in their rotator cuff. Reverse total shoulder replacement works the same way as regular procedures. However, the joint in this is placed upside down. When the joint is attached in reverse, the arm is moved by different muscles. This is the primary reason for the alignment to work in a better way.

Different muscles are required to move the arm when the rotator cuff gets badly torn or is beyond repair. This can happen with the help of a reverse total shoulder replacement and not after a standard shoulder replacement.

Thomas & Bigler Knee and Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler, provides orthopedic surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada, while also serving areas such as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

Understanding Reverse Shoulder Replacement

Regular or conventional shoulder replacement makes use of devices that mimic the real anatomy of the human shoulder. A metal ball is fitted to the humerus (upper arm bone) and a plastic cup is attached to the glenoid (shoulder socket).

The metal ball and socket switch their places in a reverse total shoulder replacement. The plastic cup is attached on the humerus’ upper end while the metal ball is attached to the socket. This is why the surgery is called reverse total shoulder replacement.

The procedure works wonders for people with rotator cuff tear since it relies on using different muscles to move the arm. The rotator cuff in healthy shoulders helps power and position the arm during a wide range of motion. Patients with large tears in their rotator cuff lose movement of these muscles. Deltoid muscles are used in reverse total shoulder replacement instead of the rotator cuff for powering and positioning the arm.

Surgical Treatment

Reverse total shoulder replacement procedure usually takes anywhere from 2 to 3 hours. Your surgeon will make an incision at the top or front of the shoulder. They will remove the damaged fragments and position new bone components for restoring function to the shoulder. This includes a plastic cup and a metal ball.

The medical team upon completing the surgery will give you several antibiotic doses for reducing the risk of infection. They will also prescribe pain medication so that you don’t feel any discomfort. Most patients can get out of the bed the same day and eat solid food.

Recovering from a Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement

Your arm would need to be kept in a sling once you leave the hospital. You should ensure that you don’t put any weight on your arm if you want it to heal quickly. You should allow it to rest completely.

The surgeon may ask you to perform a wide range of gentle exercises for increasing endurance and mobility. You may also have to undergo a formal physical therapy program for increasing strength in your shoulder and improving flexibility.

Orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for orthopedic surgery.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

Glenoid Labrum Tear Treatment

Glenoid labrum tear refers to an injury in which the cartilage lining the shoulder tears causing pain and other symptoms. The injury is usually due to an impact trauma, such as a direct blow to the shoulder or a fall. It may occur over time as well from playing sports that involve a lot of shoulder movement.

Fortunately, glenoid labrum tear can be treated in both surgical and nonsurgical way. Often times, surgical procedures are recommended if the symptoms fail to go away or if the tear is severe.

Thomas & Bigler Knee and Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler, provides orthopedic surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada, while also serving areas such as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

Understanding a Glenoid Labrum Tears

Shoulder joint tears or glenoid labrum tears refers to a tear in the cartilage reinforcing or lining the shoulder joint. Shoulder socket injuries are generally caused by repetitive shoulder motions or acute trauma. This can be by falls or direct blows to the shoulder. It can also occur because of a violent overhead reach or a sudden pull.

Weight lifters and throwing athletes are susceptible to such tears because of the repetitive shoulder motions required by their sport. Glenoid larum tears can happen below (inferior) or above (superior) the center of the glenoid socket. It may tear entirely or partially.

Symptoms of Glenoid Labrum Tear

Glenoid labrum tears can result in the following symptoms:

• Shoulder dislocation
• Instability in the shoulder
• Decreased range of motion
• Strength loss
• Occasional pain during the night
• Pain while performing daily activities
• Pain during overhead activities
• Sensation that the shoulder is locking, catching, grinding or popping

Nonsurgical Options

Your physician will ask you to rest and prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to relieve symptoms until a diagnosis is made. They may also recommend rehabilitation exercises to strengthen and improve flexibility in your rotator cuff muscles.

Nonsurgical methods are often effective at relieving symptoms. They also help in healing the injured bone structure. Your doctor may recommend getting a surgery if the nonsurgical measures are inadequate.

Surgical Treatment for Glenoid Labrum Tear

The physician, depending on the injury may choose a traditional arthroscopic or open procedure. In this the surgeon will use miniature instruments and small incisions. The doctor will assess and examine the biceps tendon and the rim completely during both the surgeries.

The shoulder is stable if the surgeon only looks at the rim and doesn’t examine the tendon. The torn flap will be removed if the shoulder is stable to fix all problems. The biceps tendon may be considered unstable if the tear extends all the way down to the biceps tendon or if the tendon gets completely detached.

The tendon will need to be transferred using absorbable sutures, screws and tacks or repaired if this is the case. Tears below the socket require the ligament to be reattached. The shoulder is then tightened by pleating the tissues.

Orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for orthopedic surgery.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

Broken Shoulder Blade Treatment

Shoulder blade fractures are not very common injuries. They can result in inflammation and pain in the shoulder arc. Shoulder blade fractures can be caused by blunt and high energy trauma incidents. This can be in the form of car accidents or falls. This fracture type is generally treated in non-surgical ways. However, they may require surgery in some instances depending on its severity.

Shoulder blade fractures can often result in severe injuries to the chest, lungs, and internal organs. It is important, for this reason, to attain medical attention if you fracture your shoulder blade.

Thomas & Bigler Knee and Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler, provides orthopedic surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada, while also serving areas such as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

Anatomy of Your Shoulder Blade

A complex system of muscles protects your shoulder blade, which is in a triangular shape. The rotator cuff, which is again a combination of tendons and muscles, helps in keeping your arm bone centered within the shoulder socket. The rotator cuff is responsible for covering the upper arm bone’s head and keeping it attached to the shoulder blade.

Why Do Shoulder Blade Fractures Take Place?

Shoulder blade fractures occur during blunt trauma injuries, such as falls or car accidents. The injury is often accompanied by trauma to the lungs, chest, and other internal organs as well. This is why it is important to get in touch with an orthopedic surgeon to prevent any injury from taking a downturn.

Fortunately, shoulder blade fractures are not very common. They constitute to 1% of all broken bones. Men aged 25 to 45 suffer from the most shoulder blade fractures.

Symptoms of Shoulder Blade Fracture

These are a few common symptoms of fracture of the shoulder blade:

• Inflammation at the back of the shoulder
• Severe pain while using the arm
• Bruises around the shoulder
• Scraps around the shoulder

You should seek immediate medical attention if you have the following symptoms:

• Shortness of breath
• Abdominal pain
• Decreased sensation

Fractures of the shoulder blade can be treated in both surgical and nonsurgical ways.

Non-Surgical Approach

You may not need a surgery depending on the severity of your fracture. It is important that you immobilize your arm and shoulder immediately after the injury. You should also apply ice to reduce inflammation and discomfort. Non-surgical treatments typically involve slings to keep the arm from moving accidentally.

Your physician may prescribe rehabilitation exercises after the first one week to prevent the risk of elbow and shoulder stiffness. You should continue with stretching exercises until you regain complete shoulder motion. This can take anywhere from 6 months to a year.

Surgical Approach

Surgery may be necessary if your shoulder blade fracture is extensive. Fragments of your shoulder blade bone will be repositioned in a proper alignment. They will be held in place using metal plates and special screws on the bone’s outer surface.

Orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for orthopedic surgery.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

Calcific Tendinitis of The Shoulder Treatment

Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder refers to a condition in which the shoulder tendons or the rotator cuff becomes inflamed. Calcium deposits may start to build up, causing bonelike structures. Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder usually occurs in the age group 40 to 60. It is caused because of shoulder overuse. However, there are surgical and non-surgical treatment options to help you resume normal motion and your daily routine.

Thomas & Bigler Knee and Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler, provides orthopedic surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada, while also serving areas such as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

Understanding Calcific Tendinitis of The Shoulder

Calcium deposits can build into dense, bonelike structures in your shoulder tendons and muscles. This area is also called rotator cuff. Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder is a common cause of shoulder pain. Heavy lifting, tennis, and basketball among other overhead motions may cause this condition. Other causes of calcific tendinitis of the shoulder include:

• Abnormal cell growth
• Abnormal thyroid gland activity
• Genetic predisposition
• Production of anti-inflammatory agents in the body
• Diabetes and other metabolic diseases

Women are generally more likely to be affected by this condition as compared to men.

Symptoms of Calcific Tendinitis of The Shoulder

These are a few symptoms of the condition:

• Minor pain while at rest or performing any activity
• Radiating pain from the side of the arm to the front of the shoulder
• Sudden pain during reaching movements or while lifting
• Athletes may develop pain while throwing

Symptoms may worsen into the following with time:

• Pain during night
• Loss of motion and strength
• Difficulty buttoning, zippering and other activities

Diagnosing Calcific Tendinitis of The Shoulder

Your orthopedic surgeon will look at your overall health, medical history, and symptoms during the physical examination. They may recommend certain tests to check calcium deposits. They will also make sure the symptoms are not because of another injury.

Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder is generally confirmed by x-rays. This is because dense calcium deposits can be easily seen in an x-ray. Ultrasound is another useful test to look for smaller calcium deposits the x-ray may have missed.

Understanding the Treatment

You can choose between surgical and non-surgical treatment options to get back to your routine. Non-surgical options are usually recommended since they are non-invasive in nature. Your physician may consider surgical avenues if the non-surgical options fail.

Typically, surgical procedures involve creating more space arthroscopically. This allows the rotator cuff to sit well. Your surgeon may remove the bursa completely or just the inflamed part to get this done. Correlating with this, the surgeon may also address any other condition causing pain that is present in the shoulder while performing this surgery.

This can be in the form of arthritis or biceps tendonitis (inflammation of the biceps tendon). Arthritis is usually in between the acromion and the collarbone (acromioclavicular arthritis). The surgeon may also repair partial rotator cuff tear, if any.

Orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for orthopedic surgery.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

Shoulder Bursitis Treatment

The shoulder joint has a fluid filled sac that becomes inflamed in bursitis of the shoulder. The inflammation causes pain and restricts normal motion. The condition doesn’t usually happen without any external trigger. Generally, bursitis of the shoulder is accompanied by rotator cuff tendonitis, which is the inflammation of the rotator cuff or shoulder tendons.

Most bursitis of the shoulder cases is treated in a non-surgical way with simple, at-home treatments. However, surgery may be the only recourse where non-surgical procedures are not effective.

Thomas & Bigler Knee and Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler, provides orthopedic surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada, while also serving areas such as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

Understanding Bursitis of the Shoulder

Bursa, which is part of the shoulder blade and located between the rotator cuff can develop swelling and inflammation because of excessive shoulder use. This is also called subacromial bursa. The condition is better known as subacromial bursitis.

Bursitis of the shoulder along with rotator cuff tendinitis can cause difficulty in performing everyday tasks and activities. Shoulder impingement is a common cause of bursitis of the shoulder. It occurs when the shoulder blade top starts putting pressure on the underlying soft tissues. This is when the arm is not next to the body.

The top of the shoulder blade when the arm is lifted away from the body rubs on the bursa and rotator cuff. This impingement results in bursitis of the shoulder. Gout, arthritis, diabetes, tendonitis, thyroid disease, and infection are other causes of the condition.

Non-Surgical Procedures

These are a few non-surgical treatment options:

• Rest: You should give your shoulder complete rest. Take a break from all movements and activities that cause pain.
• Ice: Cold pack on the shoulder may reduce swelling. You should aim for 10 to 15 minutes a day or twice a day.
• Non-prescription medications: Motrin or Advil, Aspirin and Aleve can help in easing soreness and swelling.
• Medications: For severe pain, the physician may inject a steroid into the shoulder bursa area. However, you may need antibiotics if the condition is caused by an infection.
• Stretching and physical therapy: Several exercises can help your shoulder regain its normal range of motion. This will be demonstrated by your orthopedic surgeon.

Surgical Treatment for Bursitis of the Shoulder

Your surgeon may perform manual tests and take a good look at your symptoms to determine whether you have bursitis of the shoulder. Surgery is the last treatment option for bursitis of the shoulder. Surgery, if required, is usually because bursitis doesn’t respond to any non-surgical treatment options or physical therapy.

The surgical procedure typically involves removing the bursa. This makes space for a new and healthy bursa to grow in its place. The surgeon may also remove a portion of the bone to make room for the rotator cuff tendon. This will help in decreasing the rubbing or impingement occurring on the shoulder.

Orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for orthopedic surgery.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

Broken Collarbone Treatment

Broken collarbone or a clavicle fracture is one of the most common fractures. It usually occurs after the individual suffers a serious accident or fall. Most collarbones heal with the help of a sling. However, surgical treatments may be required in certain rare and serious cases where the bone has moved too far out to heal without medical intervention.

Thomas & Bigler Knee and Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler, provides orthopedic surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada, while also serving areas such as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

Understanding Broken Collarbones

Collarbones can break at any age. Almost 5% of adult fractures are broken collarbones. These fractures can be as severe as a full break or something minor like a slight crack. There can be comminuted fracture as well, which refers to multiple breaks.

Car accidents, hard falls and other things can cause the collarbone to break. Babies can suffer from broken collarbones while passing through the birthing canal. Middle portion of the bone is where most fractures take place. The bone may also break at the shoulder blade or where it meets the ribcage in certain rare cases.

The severity of your fracture will determine if the broken bones line up out of place or straight. Out of place healing or displaced fracture is a sign of serious fracture.

Treatments and Procedures for Broken Collarbone

Your orthopedic surgeon will recommend a surgery where the fracture is severe. This normally entails placing the broken pieces back into the correct position. This can help ensure you regain your lost strength.

Open reduction and internal fixation is a common procedure for treating broken collarbones. Fragments or pieces are positioned in place and held together using special metal hardware. These are a few options for internal fixation:

• Plates and screws: Metal plates and surgical screws are used for holding the bone fragments in place. They are then attached to the bone’s outer surface. You may experience slight numbness, which will go away after a few weeks. Plates and screws are rarely removed unless they cause discomfort.
• Pins or screws: Pins and screws can be used to hold the fracture in place once the bone ends have been repositioned. Pins and screws tend to irritate the skin and are usually removed on healing.

Your surgeon will suggest non-prescription medications and ice packs to help with the pain following surgery. You may be prescribed a prescription strength pain killer as well for a few days if the pain is severe or persistent. You should understand that rehabilitation is necessary for complete restoration and recovery of your shoulder.

Your surgeon will discuss whether you require home therapies or not. They may recommend a professional therapist as well to help you recover quickly. You will be advised to start off slowly with the physiotherapy exercises. Don’t hesitate to stop completely if there is pain or discomfort. You should also speak with your surgeon about persistent pain.

Orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for orthopedic surgery.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

Bioinductive Implant to Treat Rotator Cuff Disease

Bioinductive implant is a revolutionary new procedure for treating patients that have rotator cuff disease. Tendons can heal through the Rotation Medical Bioinductive Implant by introducing new tissue growth. This helps patients perform regular activities much quicker than traditional treatments. The procedure helps in reducing the risk of re-tears and degeneration as well.

Rotation Medical Bioinductive Implant is a minimally invasive procedure for people experiencing rotator cuff tendon tears in the shoulder joint. Shoulder disability and pain are usually because of rotation cuff tears. It affects more than 3 million people in the US every year. Most patients avoid getting a surgery because it can result in a lengthy and painful postoperative period.

Thomas & Bigler Knee and Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler, provides orthopedic surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada, while also serving areas such as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

Understanding Bioinductive Implant

The Rotation Medical Bioinductive Implant is the size of a postage stamp. It is a collagen-based implant that is delivered through a small incision arthroscopically. The incision is made over the injured rotator cuff tendon and is closed using proprietary staples.

The implant is capable of inducing new tendinous tissue formation right over the tendon surface. It results in a thicker tendon. This is the only implant of its type to induce new tissue growth to help tendons heal faster.

The Rotation Medical Bioinductive Implant has demonstrated remarkable success rates when used early in the disease. It can easily prevent progression of the disease and reduce the risk of re-tears. The implant addresses the underlying issue of the problem – excessive strain and stress in the tendons.

How Does Rotation Medical Bioinductive Implant Work?

This is a highly porous implant which allows the new fibrovascular tissue to fully fill it. The implant comes with distinct biomechanical features, which induces new tissue growth. The tissue is remodeled into the tendon-like, linearly placed tissue.

New tissue growth is gradually absorbed within the implant over a period of six months. It leaves a layer of biologically augmented new tissue within the existing tendon.

Advantages of the Bioinductive Implant

There are several potential benefits to the Bioinductive Implant depending on the extent of rotator cuff disease. Few of these are:

• Decreased sling time
• Quicker recovery
• Prevention of disease progression
• Partial thickness tears heal quicker

Rotator Cuff Injuries Are Common in the US

One of the most common causes for shoulder pain the country is rotator cuff disease, which affects over 4 million people on an average every year. Most people avoid having a surgery done until the pain becomes unbearable.

Clinical Evidence Supporting Bioinductive Implants

Bioinductive implants are highly capable as can be demonstrated by a growing body of evidence. Multiple studies have proven that the implants are effective and safe. FDA clearance was obtained for the procedure in 2014. It has already helped thousands of patients in the United States.

Orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for orthopedic surgery.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

Bicep Tenodesis Treatment

Biceps tendonitis is usually treated with a surgical procedure called biceps tenodesis. Biceps tendonitis is also known as biceps tendon tear. The surgery is usually recommended for people that suffer from shoulder pain because of biceps tendonitis. The pain is usually caused by inflammation and doesn’t improve with non-surgical treatment.

Biceps tenodesis procedure is recommended for people looking to regain mobility and strength in their shoulder area. Damaged parts of the bicep tendon are removed during the procedure.

Thomas & Bigler Knee and Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler, provides orthopedic surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada, while also serving areas such as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

Symptoms of Biceps Tendonitis

Traumatic injury or repetitive movement of the shoulder may cause biceps tendon tears. Symptoms include:

• Sharp and sudden pain in the upper arm
• Snapping or popping sound
• Cramping of biceps
• Tenderness or pain in the elbow or shoulder
• Weakness in elbow or shoulder
• Appearance of bruises
• Difficulty rotating the arm
• Popeye muscle or a bulge in the upper arm

Understanding Biceps Tenodesis

This is a surgical procedure that helps in treating biceps tendonitis. Biceps tendon tear occurs because of an abrupt injury or overtime with repetitive motion. Biceps tendon may tear entirely or partially. However, a majority of people don’t require a surgery and are able to live their lives without any trouble.

You may lose some mobility and strength with biceps tendon tear in your shoulder. However, it may not be enough for you to experience difficulty in performing everyday tasks. You may need to get a surgery if you want to regain strength and mobility in your shoulder.

How Does it Work?

There are several ways of performing a biceps tenodesis procedure. Most procedures fit into soft tissue and hard tissue categories.

Soft Tissue Procedures

There are two primary techniques under this approach:

• Open keyhole procedure: An opening in the keyhole or humerus is created. This is to insert tiny instruments for stitching the rolled-up end of the bicep into place.
• Pitt technique: An interlocking pattern of stitches is created using two needles. The tendon is then tied to the shoulder ligament.

Hard Tissue Procedures

The two primary techniques under this approach are:

• The surgeon will first detach the biceps tendon to create a hole at the top of the arm bone. The tendon is attached to this hole at one end. The other end is secured in place by screwing it to the arm bone.
• The biceps tendon is detached in this approach as well. However, it is attached to a button that is slid into the hole at the top of the arm bone.

Biceps tenodesis is a highly successful procedure for the most part because it’s well practiced. People report better flexibility, reduced pain, and better strength. They also find it easy to return to their activities and sports. Experts recommend getting the procedure done at least three months after the injury for best results.

Orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for orthopedic surgery.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

You can suffer from a rotator cuff tear after falling or another significant injury. Degeneration and prolonged breakdown of the associated tendon can also result in a rotator cuff tear. Pain while sleeping and radiating pain on the affected side are common symptoms of a rotator cuff tear. You may also experience arm weakness while trying to perform your daily activities.

Worsening pain is an indication that the tear is getting bigger. It is important to speak with an orthopedic surgeon if you experience these symptoms or something similar. Your surgeon will want you to get an MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging to identify and confirm the injury.

You may be able to take care of your rotator cuff tear without undergoing any surgery if detected early. Nonsurgical treatment options may include cortisone injections, anti-inflammatory medicines, and physical therapy, among others.

Your surgeon may recommend you to schedule the surgery if the nonsurgical approach doesn’t yield required results. The goal of any shoulder specialist is to help you restore your strength while managing your pain.

Thomas & Bigler Knee and Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler, provides orthopedic surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada, while also serving areas such as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

Repairing Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Tears

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is an advanced and revolutionary procedure for treating rotator cuff tears. This is a minimally invasive technique which can yield the same results as conventional rotator cuff repair procedures.

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair or shoulder arthroscopy is a great way of treating tears in the rotator cuff. The entire shoulder joint can be evaluated by experienced surgeons. They use specially designed devices and instruments for fixing the tears using tiny incisions. Arthroscopic repair is particularly appropriate for large tears since it helps in visualizing and accessing the tear.

The following procedures are used to restore painless and normal motion:

• Débridement: This is used in cases where the rotator cuff is loose and degenerated. The rotator cuff may have frayed tissue on the edges, which is removed to give healthy tissue access.
• Mobilization: The rotator cuff is brought back to a normal position without putting undue tension. Margin convergence is used for larger tears.
• Suture Anchors: Specially designed devices are used for fixing the tear in place to secure the bone to the cuff tear.

All-Arthroscopic Repair

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is of two types – all arthroscopic repair and mini-open arthroscopic repair. Arthroscope is used by the surgeon to look at the rotator cuff. It is a miniature camera which is guided after making a tiny incision on the effected joint. The camera will transfer images on a video monitor.

Mini-Open Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

This procedure makes use of a more advanced technology to repair the rotator cuff tear. The surgeon can directly view the tendons without using a screen or video monitor. It allows doctors to evaluate damage (if any) in the surrounding areas.

Orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for orthopedic surgery.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada