Evaluation of the Clinical Outcomes of the Arthroscopic Treatment of Rotator Cuff Tears Using the Modified Suture Bridge Technique.

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the postoperative clinical outcomes of the arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff injuries using a suture configuration we have developed based on a modification of the Suture Bridge (Arthrex, Naples, FL, United States). Methods A retrospective study with 28 male (41.2%) and 40 female (58.8%) subjects with a mean age of 60 years. All patients underwent rotator cuff repair with the modified Suture Bridge technique and follow-up for a minimum period of 18 months. The clinical assessment was performed using the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Score. Results The mean postoperative range of motion was of 134° (range: 110° to 140°) for elevation, 58° (range: 40° to 70°) for lateral rotation, and T10 (range: L4 to T7) for medial rotation. The mean increase was of 15° for elevation, 14° for lateral rotation, and 2 vertebral levels for medial rotation. The outcomes were excellent in 61 (83.6%) cases, good in 8 (10.9%), and regular in 4 cases (5.5%). Conclusion The modified Suture Bridge technique for the arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff injuries led to excellent or good postoperative clinical outcomes in most cases (69; 94.5%).