Shoulder & elbow · Tendon repair

Rotator cuff repair in Canada

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair reattaches the torn tendon to bone through small incisions, and may be augmented with the REGENETEN™ bioinductive implant to support healing of partial- or full-thickness tears. Consultations with our fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeons in 1–3 days, with surgery typically 2–4 weeks later. Initial recovery in a sling is typically 4–6 weeks, with active range of motion progressing through 3–4 months and full strength returning over 4–6 months.

At Pathway, our fellowship-trained shoulder and elbow surgeons perform rotator cuff repair. Consultations are available in 1–3 days, with surgery typically 2–4 weeks later.

Book a consultation (647) 799-3230

REGENETEN™ bioinductive implant option
Surgeons in Ontario, Quebec & BC
Surgery in 2–4 weeks
No referral required

Patient reaching overhead at home after rotator cuff repair recovery

5.0 from 250+ reviews

REGENETEN™ implant option

At a glance

REGENETEN™ bioinductive implant option
Surgeons in Ontario, Quebec & BC
Surgery in 2–4 weeks
No referral required

Patient stories

Recovery, in their words.

5.0 from 250+ patient reviews

I had rotator cuff surgery by Dr Abouali and his team on Oct 24. Since the surgery I’ve had very little pain and started physio a week ago. My physiotherapist is very impressed in how well I’m progressing and my range of motion.

Sandy Doucette

Rotator cuff repair

I would like to thank everyone at the Pathway Surgery for the amazing care that was extend to my during my Rotator Cuff Repair. Dr. Abouali, my nurse, and the entire team were all great. I could not have asked for better care.

Henry Abrams

Rotator cuff repair

I turned to Pathway as I was a very complex shoulder case. Dr. Alolabi took my shoulder on with no hesitation, explaining the surgery and risks well. Three days post-op I feel better than I did before surgery. I highly recommend Pathway’s team.

Steven King

Complex rotator cuff repair

What is rotator cuff repair?

The rotator cuff is a group of four tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and enabling arm movement. These tendons can tear from injury, repetitive overhead motions, or gradual wear over time — causing pain, weakness, and difficulty with everyday activities.

Rotator cuff repair is an arthroscopic procedure that reattaches the torn tendon to the bone using suture anchors. The surgery is performed through small incisions using a camera and specialized instruments, allowing your surgeon to repair the tear with precision.

Key benefits of arthroscopic repair

Small incisions, less scarring
Reduced post-operative pain
Better visualization for the surgeon
Outpatient procedure

The goal of surgery is to restore the tendon’s attachment to bone, relieve pain, and return strength to the shoulder. Success depends on tear size, tissue quality, and commitment to post-operative rehabilitation.

Advanced healing technology

Heal stronger with REGENETEN.

A biologic implant designed to support tendon healing and reduce re-tear rates.

The REGENETEN implant works with your body’s natural healing process. Made from purified collagen, it acts as a scaffold that signals your body to grow new, healthy tendon tissue — not just scar tissue.

Lower risk of re-tearing — studies show repairs with REGENETEN are less likely to fail
Regenerates tendon tissue — the body replaces the implant with healthy tissue within 6 months
Thicker, stronger repair — the new tissue adds reinforcement to your rotator cuff
10+ years of clinical use

Smaller tears

Can be used alone to accelerate healing without traditional stitches

Larger repairs

Added on top of the repair to reinforce and protect the healing tendon

REGENETEN™ Bioinductive Implant

The implant is placed over the repair and gradually absorbed by your body. In its place, new tendon tissue grows, adding reinforcement to the healing rotator cuff. Your surgeon will discuss whether REGENETEN is right for your specific tear.

REGENETEN is manufactured by Smith+Nephew

Surgical fixation

Knotless anchor technology.

HEALICOIL knotless anchor

Our surgeons use knotless suture anchors for secure tendon-to-bone fixation with a smooth, low-profile repair surface.

Knotless design
Self-cinching
Low profile
Strong fixation

Your surgeons

Our rotator cuff repair specialists.

Fellowship-trained shoulder surgeons with expertise in complex repairs.

Dr. Bashar Alolabi

Shoulder & elbow specialist

Cleveland Clinic fellowship. Complex rotator cuff repairs & shoulder reconstruction.

Dr. Jihad Abouali

Knee & shoulder sports medicine

High-volume shoulder surgeon. Rotator cuff repair & shoulder arthroscopy.

Read full surgeon profiles

Your recovery

Your recovery journey.

Weeks 0–6
1

Weeks 0–6

Protection

Sling, limited motion, tissue healing
Weeks 6–12
2

Weeks 6–12

Early motion

Active motion, no resistance
Months 3–4
3

Months 3–4

Strengthening

Progressive resistance exercises
Months 4–6+
4

Months 4–6+

Return to activity

Full function, sport-specific training

4–6 weeks

Sling off

Begin active motion

3–4 months

Driving resumes

With surgeon clearance

4–6 months

Full activities

Depending on tear size and healing

The repaired tendon needs time to heal and integrate with bone. Following your surgeon’s protocol carefully is essential for the best long-term outcome.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Surgery may be recommended if you have a complete tear, if symptoms haven't improved with conservative treatment (physical therapy, injections), or if you need full shoulder function for work or sports. Your surgeon will review your MRI and discuss whether surgery is likely to help.

You'll wear a sling for 4-6 weeks. Physical therapy starts early with passive motion (the therapist moves your arm). Most patients see significant improvement by 3-4 months and return to full activities at 4-6 months, though large tears may take longer to fully heal.

The first few days after surgery can be uncomfortable, but pain is well-managed with medications. Many patients receive a nerve block that provides relief for the first 12-24 hours. Arthroscopic surgery is generally less painful than open surgery.

Re-tear is possible, especially with large tears or poor tissue quality. Following your surgeon's rehabilitation protocol, avoiding heavy lifting during healing, and addressing risk factors (smoking, diabetes) can help optimize healing success.

No referral is required. You can book a consultation directly. Having a recent MRI is helpful but not mandatory—we can arrange imaging if needed.

Rotator cuff repair in Canada

Recovery, in their words.