Research Project Summary

Year Funded: 2010 Budget: $126,500 Funding Agency: Workers’ Compensation Board of Manitoba (WCB)
Title: A Randomized Study of Non-Operative Management Versus Expedited Surgery Among WCB Patients with Small Rotator Cuff Tears: Effect upon Time to Claim Closure in Two Prairie Centres
Category: Occupational Disease, Injury and Health Services
Subcategory: Occupational Health Services
Keywords: rotator cuff tears, time to claim closure, rehabilitation, surgery, non-operative treatment
Link to research website:

Issue:

This study will examine the differences between two groups of injured workers with rotator cuff tears to determine whether recovery would be expedited by surgical interventions or by non-operative treatment modalities.

Objectives:

• To determine how non-operative management (rehabilitation) or expedited surgery affects time to claim closure
• To determine if there are subject, injury, or work-related characteristics that affect which patient management approach will be the most effective

Anticipated Results:

This study will enhance knowledge regarding current practices relating to the medical management of rotator cuff injuries.

Investigators:

Dr. David Sheps (University of Alberta)