Reconstruction of small and medium rotator cuff tear with single row anchor under all-arthroscopy

Abstract

Objective To investigate the clinical efficacy of single row anchor under all-arthroscopy in the treatment of small and medium rotator cuff tear. Methods From January 2014 to December 2016, 13 cases of shoulder pain and activity limitation were diagnosed as shoulder rotator cuff tear after excluding other shoulder diseases by preoperative symptoms, signs, imaging examination. The rotator cuff tear size was further confirmed during the operation. Under all-arthroscopy, the single row anchor was used to reconstruct the rotator cuff tear. After the operation, the California University shoulder score system (UCLA) was used for the follow-up. Results All the wounds achieved primary healing. No joint infection and nerve injury occurred. According to imaging examination, there was no slippage of the anchor and recurrence of rotator cuff tear. The follow-up time ranged from 6 to 36 months with an average of 23 months. The postoperative pain symptoms were relieved effectively, and the shoulder function recovered well. According to the UCLA score system, the results were rated as excellent in 10 cases, good in 2 cases and poor in 1 case. The rate of patient satisfaction was 100%. Conclusion Arthroscopic single row anchor for reconstruction of small and medium rotator cuff tear has the advantages of simple operation, small trauma, short operation time, light postoperative pain, quick function recovery, relatively low cost. It is an ideal treatment method for repair of such injuries. Key words: Shoulder joint; Arthroscopes; Rotator cuff injury; Single row anchor