Comparison of the epidemiology and outcomes of traumatic and nontraumatic rotator cuff tears

Abstract

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to investigate the differences in the epidemiology and outcomes of traumatic and nontraumatic rotator cuff tears. MethodsThirty-three patients with traumatic and 46 with nontraumatic rotator cuff tears were included. ResultsThe rate of injury to the long head of the biceps was significantly higher in the traumatic group. Preoperative active forward elevation was significantly lower in the traumatic group. ConclusionThe outcomes of both groups were good. This may have been because milder preoperative muscle atrophy and a shorter duration of symptoms were observed in the traumatic group.