This video highlights a long-term post-operative follow-up shared by Dr. Don Buford, checking in on a patient 16 years after a major shoulder repair.
Key Highlights:
- The Background & Surgeries: 16 years prior, the patient underwent surgery on his left shoulder to repair a full-thickness rotator cuff tear using two metal suture anchors. During the same procedure, Dr. Buford used an additional suture anchor to fix a SLAP lesion (a tear of the shoulder's labrum) and stabilize the biceps tendon.
- Long-Term Results: The patient reports having no issues with the repaired left shoulder over the span of 16 years, stating it has felt completely normal. He demonstrates a flawless, full range of motion by easily raising his arm overhead and reaching behind his head.
- Functional Success: The patient is left-handed and underwent extra physical therapy specifically to return to sports. He has spent the last 16 years successfully playing high-level competitive tournament tennis (at a 4.0/4.5 NTRP skill rating) using that same left arm.
- Reason for the Visit: He returned to the clinic not due to any issues with his long-healed left shoulder, but to get a consultation for his right shoulder.
