Comparison of Early Results of Rotator Cuff Repair: Single Row MAC Configuration Versus Double Row Suture Bridge Technique (SS-27)

Abstract

Double- row repair techniques in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair have been increasingly utilized by orthopaedists when treating rotator cuff tears. While this offers theoretical advantage over previous techniques such as single row fixation, the current study is aimed to compare results of the two methods of fixation. To compare single row with double row fixation in rotator cuff repair. Non-randomized assessment of 66 patients who had undergone arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with a single row simple over horizontal configuration (MAC) were compared to 26 patients who had the double row suture bridge configuration which effectively provided double row fixation and re-creation of the rotator cuff footprint. VAS, UCLA, and ASES scores were collected for both groups pre-operatively; then again at 3, 6, and 12 month intervals. In addition, dynometric strength assessment for subscapularis, supraspinatus, and infraspinatus was compared. No significant difference was shown between the two fixation methods preoperatively or at the 3 month follow-up visit. At the 6 month follow-up visit, the suture bridge configuration group showed poorer results for each of the VAS, UCLA, and ASES scores. At 12 months the UCLA and ASES scores were no different and the VAS score was slightly better for the MAC group. Strength in the MAC repair group at 12 months exceeded that for the suture bridge group for subscapularis, supraspinatus, and infraspinatus. Suture bridge configuration for rotator cuff repair is thought to provide a better repair by providing increased contact pressure of the repaired tendinous cuff to the native footprint while also increasing repair strength. Our current results suggest that a single row fixation method with a MAC configuration provides comparable results to double row repair outcomes as per strength assessment as well as VAS scores.