Arthroscopic Xenograft Repair of Massive, Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears

Abstract

PURPOSE: Our purpose was to assess the short-term results of arthroscopic bridging repair of massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears by use of a Permacol(R).MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between October 2010 and April 2011, 6 patients with massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears were treated with arthroscopic bridging repair using a Permacol(R). All were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively by use of the Korean Shoulder Scoring System (KSS). Magnetic resonance imaging was performed postoperatively at mean 4.2 months (range, 2 to 10 months) after operation.RESULTS: At a mean follow-up of 7 months (range, 4 to 12 months), the mean KSS increased significantly from preoperatively mean 53.0 to postoperatively mean 72.3 (p=0.046). Statistically insignificant improvements were seen in pain (p=0.066) and range of motion (p=0.336). As documented on magnetic resonance imaging, there were two patients with full incorporation of the graft into the native tissue, 1 partial retear, and 3 complete retear. There were no complications such as adverse inflammatory or septic joint in these patients.CONCLUSION: Although Permacol(R), porcine dermal xenograft may be effective in other areas of the body for tendon healing, its use in bridging repair of massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears seems to have to be chosen prudently and warrants further evaluation.