What is a Rotator Cuff Tear?
A rotator cuff tear is a common orthopaedic condition that affects the group of muscles and tendons stabilizing the shoulder joint. These tendons can become frayed or completely torn due to repetitive overhead motion, injury, or degeneration over time. This condition is a frequent cause of shoulder pain and weakness, especially in older adults and athletes.
There are two main types:
- Partial tear – when the tendon is damaged but not completely severed
- Full-thickness tear – when the tendon is completely torn away from the bone
Symptoms may include difficulty lifting the arm, pain at rest, and limited range of motion.
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Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Injuries
Treatment depends on the severity of the tear. Options include:
- Conservative Management: Rest, physical therapy, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- Shoulder Injections: Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
- Shoulder Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgical procedure to repair the torn tendon using small incisions.
- Open Rotator Cuff Repair: A more invasive procedure typically used for larger or complex tears.
These procedures are often performed by an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore with experience in shoulder repair surgeries.
Cost of Rotator Cuff Surgery in Singapore
The cost of treating a rotator cuff injury in Singapore varies depending on the procedure type, hospital class, and whether it’s a public or private institution.
Public Hospitals
- Subsidised Ward (Singapore Citizens/Permanent Residents):
- Day Surgery: SGD 3,400 – 6,800
- Inpatient Surgery: SGD 4,500 – 7,800
- Unsubsidised Ward:
- Day Surgery: SGD 16,400 – 18,100
Private Hospitals
- Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: SGD 16,900 – 17,000
- Open Rotator Cuff Repair: SGD 12,000 – 12,100
- Shoulder Arthroscopy: SGD 8,100 – 8,200
Additional costs may include diagnostic imaging (MRI or ultrasound), post-surgery rehabilitation, and medications.
Insurance and MediSave Support
Rotator cuff repair procedures are generally covered by insurance in Singapore, particularly if medically necessary.
1. MediShield Life
- Covers large hospital bills and selected costly outpatient treatments
- Applies mostly to public hospitals and some approved private care
2. Integrated Shield Plans (IPs)
- Provides enhanced coverage, including private hospitals and Class A/B1 wards in public hospitals
- May cover pre- and post-hospitalisation expenses, including scans and physiotherapy
3. MediSave
- Can be used to offset part of the surgery and hospitalisation bills
- Withdrawal limits depend on the complexity of the surgery
Before proceeding with treatment, patients should consult their financial advisor or insurer to confirm what is covered under their plan.
Connect with a Financial Advisor
Understanding the complexities of insurance coverage for orthopedic conditions like rotator cuff tears can feel overwhelming. A trusted financial consultant can provide tailored support to help you evaluate your current insurance plans, identify any coverage gaps, recommend suitable options, and assist with claims and documentation. Click the button below to connect with one of our preferred financial consultants and get the guidance you need.
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Disclaimer: 365Asia aims to provide accurate and up-to-date information, our contents do not constitute medical or any professional advice. If medical advice is required, please consult a licensed healthcare professional. Patient stories are for general reading. They are based on third-party information and have not been independently verified.