Arthroscopic evaluation and treatment of the rotator cuff and superior labrum anterior posterior lesion

Abstract

This report will review in detail the recent technical advancements for the arthroscopic evaluation and treatment of rotator cuff tears and superior labrum anterior posterior (SLAP) lesions. Proper techniques of arthroscopic diagnosis of rotator cuff tears including glenohumeral arthroscopy, subacromial bursoscopy, portal establishment, bursal entry technique, suture marker placement, arthroscopic classification of cuff tears, and the modified classification of the arch view will be presented. The principles of management for “small partial,” “significant partial,” “full thickness,” and “massive” tears will be discussed. The mini-lateral deltoid splitting approach, the Southern California Orthopedic Institute suture technique, the preparation of the greater tuberosity, and special suture passing techniques will be presented. In addition, the etiology, diagnosis, classification, and arthroscopic treatment of SLAP lesions will be reviewed in detail.