The most common symptom of a rotator cuff tear is a non-specific, non-localized shoulder pain that may worsen with specific movements of the shoulder. If there is an incomplete tear, pain is likely to be the most prominent symptom and decreased strength may also be present. When the rotator cuff tear is complete, the patient is likely to also have a loss of shoulder movement. Traditionally, rotator cuff surgery involved an open method associated with significant pain, and questionable results. A newer more effective and less invasive technique is called a "mini-open rotator cuff repair." This is performed through arthroscopy on the shoulder and involves looking at the joint and the rotator cuff with a small camera inserted into the joint and visualizing this on a television monitor. Much of the work is done with the arthroscope (camera) and small instruments, and the actual repair is done through a small incision, usually about 3-4 centimeters. Another technique called "arthroscopic rotator cuff repair" has been developed to perform the entire rotator cuff repair with arthroscopic instruments. In this procedure the surgeon makes several small incisions (about 1 centimeter each) and works with small instruments while looking at the rotator cuff on a television monitor. These procedures may be done in an outpatient surgical center under local anesthesia with IV sedation, or under general anesthesia with the patient asleep. Patients should consult their surgeon for a complete explanation of the procedure and its associated risks and complications.