Repair of complete median nerve transection from shoulder arthroscopy following rotator cuff injury

•Nerve injury following arthroscopic shoulder procedures is a rare complication.•Most patients, including both those with nerve injuries preoperatively and those with surgical complications, will have gradual resolution of symptoms.•New onset nerve injuries as a complication from surgical repair should not be overlooked.•If neurologic function is not improved by 6 weeks, a more in-depth workup should be performed.•Special attention should be paid to patients whose symptoms persist despite an adequate physical therapy regiment.