Double Row–Equivalent PASTA Repair Technique

Abstract

Articular surface partial rotator cuff tendon tears are a common source of shoulder pain and dysfunction, and there is no consensus regarding the optimal arthroscopic treatment. Commonly accepted techniques, such as transtendinous repair or tear takedown with primary repair, may violate healthy tendon tissue and increase the suture anchor density. In this note, we describe an outside-in double row–equivalent technique for repair of partial articular-sided rotator cuff tears. A medial row of inverted horizontal mattress stitches is placed percutaneously using spinal needles to shuttle partially absorbable braided sutures into the joint. The technique may incorporate a soft tissue biceps tenodesis into the rotator cuff with a second, oblique medial row mattress stitch. Suture limbs are retrieved and tied in the subacromial space and then secured to a lateral anchor. The result is a side-to-side double row–equivalent rotator cuff repair, anatomically reproducing the footprint of the rotator cuff without removing healthy tissue. We believe this is an efficient and reproducible technique that preserves intact bursal tissue, limits implant costs, and produces reliable healing in partial articular-sided tears of the rotator cuff.