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Updated: Jun 14, 2026
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Modified Long Head of Biceps Tendon Rerouting and Fixation as Partial Capsular Reconstruction for Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears
Published on: March 6, 2026
Pulmonary embolism following rotator cuff repair
Samuel C Hoxie1, John W Sperling, Robert H Cofield
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street, S.W., Rochester, MN, USA.
International Journal of Shoulder Surgery
|March 20, 2010
Summary
Pulmonary embolism (PE) risk after rotator cuff surgery is low (0.26%) but possible. Surgeons should remain aware of symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath following this common shoulder repair.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Vascular Surgery
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) risk is documented after proximal humerus fracture repair and shoulder arthroplasty.
- Data on PE incidence following rotator cuff tear surgery is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of symptomatic pulmonary embolism after surgical management of rotator cuff tears.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 1176 patients undergoing rotator cuff repair surgery between 2001 and 2005.
- Identification of patients who developed symptomatic pulmonary embolism postoperatively via computed tomography angiography.
Main Results:
- Three patients (0.26% incidence) developed pulmonary embolism postoperatively.
- No fatalities were reported due to pulmonary embolism.
- Common symptoms included chest pain, shortness of breath, and hypoxia.
Conclusions:
- The risk of pulmonary embolism after rotator cuff repair is low but present.
- Increased surgeon awareness of PE as a potential complication is warranted.
- Early recognition of symptoms like chest pain and hypoxia is crucial for timely intervention.
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