Arthroscopic Single-Row Versus Double-Row Repair for Full-Thickness Posterosuperior Rotator Cuff Tears: A Critical Analysis Review.

Abstract

Over the past two decades, arthroscopic rotator cuff repair has become one of the most popular orthopaedic surgical procedures because of its proven ability to diminish pain and improve function in patients with symptomatic rotator cuff tears. As a result of this increasing demand, arthroscopic techniques have evolved rapidly in an effort to improve structural integrity, biomechanical function, and, ultimately, clinical outcomes. With the increasing number of techniques available for the repair of full-thickness rotator cuff tears, debate has arisen regarding the clinical superiority of any one of these methods over the others. Specifically, this debate has centered on traditional single-row versus traditional double-row repair constructs (Fig. 1). Therefore, the purpose of this article is to present a critical review of the most relevant evidence and to provide clinical care recommendations regarding arthroscopic single-row versus double-row rotator cuff repair constructs. Fig. 1 Traditional single-row suture configuration utilizes two lateral anchors tied in a simple stitch pattern ( Fig. 1 , A ). Traditional double-row suture configuration utilizes an additional medial row of anchors with mattress stitches ( Fig. 1 , B ). The rotator cuff represents a confluence of four tendons that envelop the humeral …