Sonographic evaluation of the post-operative rotator cuff: Does tendon thickness matter?

J. Lasbleiz,T. Benkalfate,J. Jan,J. N. Morelli

doi:10.4236/ojcd.2013.33015

Abstract

The goal of this work is to determine whether sonographic measures of tendon thickness correlate with post-operative functional parameters or re-tear rates. 53 consecutive patients with supraspinatus tears on MRI were examined by an orthopedic surgeon to determine: pre-and post-operative patient pain (via Constant-Murley scale), night time pain, maximum force production by the affected arm (in pounds), and range of motion deficits. Post-operative ultrasound at 3 and 12 months following surgery was performed to evaluate for recurrent tear and to measure tendon thickness. Post-operative tendon thickness was inversely related to patient age (r = －0.24; p value of tendon thickness. Post-operative tendon thickness did not successfully predict post-operative functional outcomes or pain levels (p > 0.05). Normal post-operative tendon thickness of the rotator cuff decreases from 3 to 12 months following surgery. Thickness is reduced in patients with more severe tears and in older patients but does not correlate with post-operative patient pain or functional outcomes.

Highlights

Recurrent rotator cuff tears following primary repair re-main a relatively common event
The goal of this work is to determine whether sonographic measures of tendon thickness correlate with post-operative functional parameters or re-tear rates. 53 consecutive patients with supraspinatus tears on MRI were examined by an orthopedic surgeon to determine: pre- and post-operative patient pain, night time pain, maximum force production by the affected arm, and range of motion deficits
While MRI identifies pre-operative rotator cuff tears with high diagnostic accuracy, the technique is often limited secondary to metallic susceptibility artifact and the potentially confounding appearance of associated granulation and inflammatory tissue [4]

Summary

Introduction

Recurrent rotator cuff tears following primary repair re-main a relatively common event. Recurrent rotator cuff tears following primary repair re-. The incidence of rotator cuff retear following injury varies widely in the literature ranging from 14% to 94% [1,2,3]. The imaging evaluation of the post-operative rotator cuff remains critical. Imaging of the post-operative rotator cuff presents a number of unique challenges. While MRI identifies pre-operative rotator cuff tears with high diagnostic accuracy, the technique is often limited secondary to metallic susceptibility artifact and the potentially confounding appearance of associated granulation and inflammatory tissue [4]. Ultrasound has been suggested as a cost-effective alternative to MR for evaluation of the rotator cuff allowing a dynamic functional as well as structural evaluation [5]. The normal post-operative appearance of the rotator cuff has not yet been assessed in detail

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