Introduction
As a leading upper extremity specialist at MD West ONE, Dr. Michael A. Del Core, MD brings dual fellowship training in Hand & Wrist and Shoulder & Elbow surgery. His expertise includes advanced, minimally invasive techniques and 3D pre-operative planning for both rotator cuff repairs and shoulder replacements. Serving locations across Omaha, Elkhorn, Council Bluffs, Dr. Del Core offers world-class care right here in your community
Deciding between a rotator cuff repair and a shoulder replacement can feel overwhelming. This guide helps break down the differences in treatment goals, eligibility, recovery expectations, and how Dr. Del Core’s expertise ensures the best outcome for your specific needs.
1. What’s the Difference?
Rotator Cuff Repair
- Targets tears in the rotator cuff tendons—common in injuries or degenerative conditions.
- Often effective when caught early; preserves the patient’s natural anatomy.
- Suitable when joint cartilage is still intact and arthritis isn’t advanced.
Shoulder Replacement (Arthroplasty)
- Involves replacing parts of the shoulder joint when it’s severely degenerated—due to arthritis, rotator cuff tear arthropathy, or structural damage.
- Includes options like total shoulder replacement and reverse shoulder replacement.
- Ideal for patients with extensive joint damage or chronic pain unresponsive to repair.
At MD West ONE, both options—including reverse total shoulder replacement—are available and carefully matched to each patient’s condition
2. Who Is a Candidate for Each Option?
Rotator Cuff Repair May Be Best If:
- The tear is partial or full, and detected early.
- Joint cartilage remains healthy.
- You’re aiming to maintain active function and natural anatomy.
- Imaging confirms tendon pathology without irreversible arthritic changes.
Shoulder Replacement May Be Necessary If:
- Significant arthritis or rotator cuff tear arthropathy has developed.
- Joint damage is advanced, symptoms are longstanding, and mobility is severely compromised.
- Prior rotator cuff repairs have failed to restore function.
Dr. Del Core and the MD West ONE team tailor treatment options using modern and patient-specific 3D surgical planning, ensuring precise, efficient care whether you’re repairing or replacing
3. Benefits & Expectations
Rotator Cuff Repair
- Preserves your natural anatomy with shorter recovery when done early.
- Goal of full return to activity with rehabilitative therapy.
- Lower risk—but depends greatly on tear size, location, and tissue quality.
Shoulder Replacement
- Consistent pain relief and restored mobility for those with advanced disease.
- Excellent outcomes—especially with reverse replacement when rotator cuff integrity is compromised.
- Designed for durability and functional restoration in degenerative cases.
4. Why Choose Dr. Michael Del Core and MD West ONE?
- Dual Fellowship Training: Expertise in both hand and shoulder/elbow surgery from prestigious institutions—UT Southwestern and the Cleveland Clinic.
- Advanced Surgical Planning: Utilizes 3D pre-op techniques for precision and better outcomes
- Multiple Convenient Locations: Clinics in Omaha (Farnam & Elkhorn), Council Bluffs, make access easy for Nebraska and Iowa patients
- Team-based Care: Backed by MD West ONE’s extensive network of orthopedic specialists and surgical support
Positive Patient Experiences: Patients praise his clear communication and compassionate approach
5. Next Steps: How to Decide
- Schedule a Consultation at one of Dr. Del Core’s locations: Farnam (Omaha), Elkhorn, or Council Bluffs—where he sees patients regularly
- Undergo Clinical Evaluation including imaging to assess rotator cuff integrity and joint condition.
- Weigh Options with Dr. Del Core, who will help determine whether repair or replacement aligns best with your goals and anatomy.
- Plan Recovery with a tailored rehab strategy to optimize outcomes—whether preserving your tissue or replacing the joint.
Rotator cuff repair vs. shoulder replacement in Omaha & Iowa—find out which is right for you. Learn from Dr. Michael Del Core, MD at MD West ONE about treatment options, advanced surgical planning, and what to expect.
