Acromiohumeral Distances Research Articles

Rate of graft retear is higher in over-the-top superior capsular reconstruction for massive posterosuperior rotator cuff tears with subscapularis tear.

To compare side-to-side superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) with over-the-top SCR in terms of functional outcomes, pain relief and allograft survival rates. Patients who had undergone arthroscopic dermal allograft SCR for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears and clinical follow-up for ≥2 years were recruited. All patients underwent postoperative assessment with routine radiographic analysis for acromiohumeral distances, ultrasound imaging 1 and 3 months after SCR and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at least 12 months after SCR. The outcome measures were visual analogue scale (VAS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), Constant and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) scores. SCR was performed in 56 patients including side-to-side SCR in 32 and over-the-top SCR in 24. Postoperative MRI showed that the grafts were intact in 46 patients (82.1%; 26 who underwent side-to-side SCR and 20 who underwent over-the-top SCR). The proportion of nonhealing grafts in the over-the-top group was significantly higher with concomitant subscapularis tears (60% vs. 5.3%; p = 0.02). VAS scores and functional outcomes improved postoperatively in both groups and postoperative VAS (1.4 vs. 1.7; n.s.), Constant (74.8 vs. 76.0; n.s.), mean ASES (87.4 vs. 89.1; n.s.) and mean SANE (81.7 vs. 84.3; n.s.) scores did not differ significantly. For massive rotator cuff tears, over-the-top and side-to-side SCR achieve similar pain relief and functional improvement, and the rate of healing allografts is high. However, over-the-top SCR is not recommended for massive posterosuperior rotator cuff tears with repairable subscapularis tendon tears due to a higher nonhealing rate. Level III.

Hemiarthroplasty in Proximal Humerus Fractures: Does Modular Metaphyseal Stem Design Lead to Better Results? An Analysis of 24 Cases.

Anatomic hemiarthroplasty (aHA) is a treatment option for non-reconstructable constructable multifragment proximal humeral fractures that preserves range of motion. Our study aims to evaluate the radiographic and clinical outcomes of patients who received a modular aHA with anatomical sizing of the tubercle-bearing metaphyseal components. The medical records of thirty-nine consecutive patients were reviewed. Patients were treated at a single institution with aHA as first-line treatment following a non-reconstructable constructable proximal humeral fracture. Tubercle resorption and cranialization of the aHA were analyzed using radiographic controls. Patient clinical function was assessed using the Constant Murley Score (CS). Twenty-four patients (62%) were available for clinical follow-up, with a mean CS of 54 points after a mean 56-month follow-up period. There was no significant difference in functional outcome on average between patients with healed tubercles (CS = 57) and resorbed tubercles (CS = 51). Radiographic follow-up was available in 33 patients (85%), demonstrating healed tubercles in 33% of the patients. Patients with resorbed tubercles had significant smaller acromio-humeral distances (AHD) than patients with healed tubercles (p = 0.043). A positive correlation was observed between greater AHD and increased constant scores (p = 0.022). The final patient outcome measures demonstrated a positive correlation with a greater acromio-humeral distance and tubercle healing rates. However, the modular stem design with sizing of the metaphyseal components did not result in superior outcomes when compared with the literature.

Participants with restricted dominant shoulder internal rotation range of motion demonstrate no side-to-side difference in humeral head translation; and no difference before and after joint mobilization: a pilot study.

[Purpose] To compare humeral head translation (HHT) during shoulder elevation between dominant and non-dominant shoulders in participants with limited dominant shoulder internal rotation range of motion (ROM). To determine if joint mobilization alters HHT, and if relationships exist between the bicipital forearm angle and HHT. [Participants and Methods] Fifteen (9 female) participants (age 25.7 ± 6.8 years) with a minimum 15-degree dominant shoulder internal rotation ROM deficit compared to the opposite shoulder participated. All participants underwent bicipital forearm angle (BFA) measurements and ultrasound imaging to measure acromiohumeral and posterior glenohumeral distances in 3 positions: Resting, 90 degrees of shoulder flexion, and 60 degrees of shoulder abduction with full external rotation. Ultrasound images were used to calculate HHT. Participants' dominant shoulders underwent posterior glide mobilization, followed immediately by repeated ultrasound images and ROM measures. [Results] There was no dominant to non-dominant shoulder, or before and after mobilization HHT differences. No correlations existed between bicipital forearm angles and HHT or ROM gains after mobilization. [Conclusion] Participants with internal rotation ROM loss demonstrated symmetrical HHT. Joint mobilization increased ROM, but HHT was unchanged. No relationships existed between BFA and HHT.

Long-term outcomes of shoulder hemiarthroplasty for acute proximal humeral fractures

Shoulder hemiarthroplasty (HA) is now rarely indicated for complex proximal humeral fractures due to its unpredictable characteristic of the greater tuberosity (GT) healing. Despite the increasing popularity of reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) in fracture treatment, there are still concerns about failure revision and its application in young populations. The complete negation of HA for fracture treatment is still under debate. Eighty-seven out of 135 patients with acute proximal humeral fractures treated with HA were enrolled. Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed. With a mean follow-up time of 14.7years, the 10-year prosthetic survival rate was 96.6%. The mean ASES score and Constant score were 79.3 and 81.3, respectively, the mean VAS was 1.1, the average forward flexion was 125.9°, external rotation was 37.2°, and internal rotation was at the L4 level. Nineteen patients (21.8%) displayed GT complications and showed significantly worse outcomes. Glenoid erosion was observed in 64.9% of the patients and resulted in inferior outcomes. The patients who showed good postoperative twoyear functional outcomes and good acromiohumeral distances usually maintained their results without deterioration over time. With strict patient selection, a proper surgical technique and closely supervised postoperative rehabilitation, HA could achieve a 96.6% tenyear survival rate and good pain relief at an average follow-up of 15years. Although rarely indicated, HA should have a role in the treatment of acute complex proximal humeral fractures in relatively young and active patients with good GT bone and intact cuff.

The clinical results of lower trapezius tendon transfer with the peroneus longus allograft augmentation combined with interpositional repair with fascia lata in massive irreparable rotator cuff tears.

To investigate the clinical results of lower trapezius (LT) tendon transfer and interpositional repair that were performed simultaneously in patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. Between 2018 and 2020 years, 16 patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears that were treated with LT tendon transfer and interpositional repair at the same time were included in this study. The mean follow-up period was 29±3 months (24-39 months) and the mean age of patients was 62±9 years (42-73 years). The acromio-humeral distance, active range of motions, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) scores and Constant-Murley scores were made preoperatively and at the final follow-up. At the final follow-up, forward flexion was increased from 109˚±24.7 to 144˚±22.21 (p=0.005), abduction from 60˚±16.33 to 135˚±16.33 (p=0.005) and external rotation from 12˚±16.87 to 35˚±14.34 (p=0.005). Total UCLA scores were 5.9±2.13 to 22.7±5.29 (p=0.005), Constant-Murley scores were 24±9.43 to 50.2±14.28 (p=0.008), VAS scores were 6.1±1.1 to 2.4±1.35 (p=0.007), mean acromio-humeral distances were 4.64±0.85mm (3.42-6.23mm) to 6.58mm (5.25-8.21mm) (p=0.005) preoperatively and at the final follow-up. Except one patient who had a frozen shoulder any significant complication was detected. Adding interpositional repair to the LT tendon transfer in patients with posterior superior irreparable rotator cuff tear seems to have satisfactory short to mid-term clinical outcomes without an increase in complications.

Arthroscopic Superior Capsular Reconstruction With Tensor Fascia Lata Allograft for Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: Clinical and Radiologic Outcomes for a Minimum 1-Year Follow-Up

To confirm the radiologic and clinical outcomes after performing arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (ASCR) using a tensor fascia lata (TFL) allograft. Thirty-three patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears were treated with ASCR with a TFL allograft. The mean age and follow-up period were 62 years and 20.1 months, respectively. TFL allografts were used as 3, 4, and 6 layers, and the graft thickness was 3.7, 3.9, and 5.4 mm, respectively. Range of motion, visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, and Constant score were evaluated preoperatively and at the final follow-up. The pre-, postoperative, and final acromiohumeral distances (AHD) were compared. The graft integrity was checked through a follow-up magnetic resonance imaging at least 6 months after surgery. Torn grafts were identified in 6 cases (19%). AHD significantly increased from 5.0 to 8.0 mm postoperatively (P < .0001). However, there was no significant difference of 5.0 mm at the final follow-up AHD. Five cases (83%) of torn grafts were induced in the 3-layered graft sheet group, but the difference was not statistically significant (P= .067). Visual analog scale, forward elevation, internal rotation, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, and Constant scores significantly improved at the last follow-up. Two cases of early infection were confirmed and the graft materials were all removed. Despite the possibility of early infection, ASCR using TFL allograft is a reliable procedure for the irreparable rotator cuff tear. In particular, if the number of layers of TFL allograft increases, it is judged that it could become a more effective graft. Level IV, therapeutic case series.

In Vivo Anatomical Research by 3D CT Reconstruction Determines Minimum Acromiohumeral, Coracohumeral, and Glenohumeral Distances in the Human Shoulder: Evaluation of Age and Sex Association in a Sample of the Chinese Population.

Accurate measurement of the minimum distance between bony structures of the humeral head and the acromion or coracoid helps advance a better understanding of the shoulder anatomical features. Our goal was to precisely determine the minimum acromiohumeral distance (AHD), coracohumeral distance (CHD), and glenohumeral distance (GHD) in a sample of the Chinese population as an in vivo anatomical analysis. We retrospectively included 146 patients who underwent supine computed tomography (CT) examination of the shoulder joint. The minimum AHD, CHD, and GHD values were quantitatively measured using three-dimensional (3D) CT reconstruction techniques. The correlation between minimum AHD, CHD, and GHD value and age with different sexes was evaluated using Pearson Correlation Coefficient. The mean value of minimum AHD in males was greater than that in females (male 7.62 ± 0.98 mm versus female 7.27 ± 0.86 mm, p = 0.046). The CHD among different sexes differed significantly (male 10.75 ± 2.40 mm versus female 8.76 ± 1.38 mm, p < 0.001). However, we found no statistical differences in GHD with different sexes (male 2.00 ± 0.31 mm versus female 1.96 ± 0.36 mm, p > 0.05). In terms of age correlation, a negative curve correlation existed between age and AHD among the different sexes (male R2 = 0.124, p = 0.030, female R2 = 0.112, p = 0.005). A negative linear correlation was found in CHD among the different sexes (male R2 = 0.164, p < 0.001, female R2 = 0.122, p = 0.005). There were no differences between age and minimum GHD in both sexes. The 3D CT reconstruction model can accurately measure the minimum AHD, CHD, and GHD value in vivo and is worthy of further investigation for standard clinical anatomical assessment. Aging may correlate with AHD and CHD narrowing for both sexes.

In vivo effects of two shoulder girdle motor control exercises on acromiohumeral and coracohumeral distances in healthy men

ABSTRACT Introduction Altered motor control and proprioceptive deficits are associated with kinematics dysfunctions and may cause alterations in subacromial space (SAS) that could lead to shoulder pathologies. Dimensions of the subacromial space, as well as interventions aimed at its normal restitution, can be explored by ultrasound (US). Objective To describe the effect of two shoulder girdle motor control exercises with cognitive training strategies on SAS dimensions, measured with US. Methods Cognitive movement control strategies, with visual and haptic feedback were applied on 21 healthy participants. SAS dimensions were measured through in vivo variations of acromiohumeral (AHD) and coracohumeral distances (CHD) using US. Results Our results show that as exercise repetitions are performed, an increasing trend in both measures can be observed, being wider for AHD (i.e. humeral head descent exercise) than CHD (i.e. scapular retraction exercise). Conclusion Specific cognitive and motor control exercises improve congruence joint and centering of the humeral head.

Rotator cuff-related shoulder pain: does the type of exercise influence the outcomes? Protocol of a randomised controlled trial

IntroductionLifetime prevalence of shoulder pain is 70%, and approximately 50% of people with shoulder pain will experience pain for more than a year. Rotator cuff-related shoulder pain (RCRSP) is the...

Clinical And MRI Outcomes After Arthroscopic Superior Capsule Reconstruction With Human Dermal Allograft For Irreparable Posterosuperior Rotator Cuff Tears A Minimum Two Year Follow-up

Objectives: Arthroscopic superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) using acellular human dermal allograft (DA) is a recently developed procedure for the treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears to reduce pain and restore shoulder function. The purpose of this study was to report clinical and structural outcomes of patients who underwent SCR with DA for irreparable tears of the posterosuperior rotator cuff. We hypothesized that SCR using DA would result in significant improvements in clinical outcomes and that outcomes would be positively correlated with graft integrity. Methods: Patients who underwent SCR using DA for irreparable tears of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons and who were at least two years out from surgery were included. Patients reported clinical outcomes were assessed prospectively by the use of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) Score, Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation (SANE) Score, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) Score, and patient satisfaction. Structurally, acromiohumeral distances (AHD) were assessed both pre- and postoperatively with standard radiographs. Integrity of the DA was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Clinical failures were defined as persistent loss of function and/or pain. Complications were also recorded. Results: Twenty-one patients who underwent SCR with a mean age of 56 (range 41-65) had and a mean follow up of 2.1 years (range 2 - 3) were included. All postoperative outcome scores improved significantly: ASES score improved from 54.2 to 83.9 (p&lt;0.001), SANE score improved from 43.6 to 71.2 points (p&lt;0.001) and QuickDASH improved from 37.5 to 16.2 points (p=0.002). Median satisfaction of all patients was 9 (range 1-10). Complete radiographs were obtained in 18/21 (85.7%) of patients and showed a significant increase of the mean AHD from 7.0 mm to 8.3 mm, pre- to postoperatively (p=0.029). Postoperative MRI’s were obtained in 95% (20/21) of the patients and showed a graft integrity rate of 50% (10/20). There were no significant differences in clinical outcome scores (p=0.214) comparing patients with intact grafts to patients with torn grafts. The AHD increased significantly from pre- to postoperatively in patients with intact grafts (p=0.003), while it didn’t increase significantly for those with a torn graft (p=0.432). There was one clinical failure in one patient who achieved no functional improvement who later underwent revision SCR and ended up with a successful clinical outcome. No postoperative complications occurred. Conclusion: SCR using DA for irreparable tears of the rotator cuff improves clinical outcomes with high patient satisfaction and low complication rates at short-term follow-up. Interestingly, intact grafts, although correlated with improved AHD, had no positive effects on clinical outcomes at final follow-up.

Correlation between acromiohumeral distance and the severity of supraspinatus tendon tear by ultrasound imaging in a Chinese population

BackgroundThe aim of this study was twofold: (i) to investigate the intrarater reliability of acromiohumeral distance measurement; (ii) to assess the level of association between acromiohumeral distance measured by ultrasonography, and the degree of supraspinatus tendon tear, in patients suffering from chronic shoulder pain.MethodsA cross-sectional, case-control study was carried out. A convenience sample comprising 59 patients with a unilateral supraspinatus tendon tear was assessed. Both shoulders of each patient were scanned by ultrasound, with the contralateral asymptomatic shoulders serving as the control group for comparison. Acromiohumeral distances of each shoulder were measured and analysed.ResultsIntrarater reliability was excellent for the ultrasound method of acromiohumeral distance measurement. The acromiohumeral distance of shoulders with full-thickness supraspinatus tendon tear was significantly smaller than that of joints with partial-thickness supraspinatus tendon tear and an intact supraspinatus tendon. There was a significant positive correlation between reduced acromiohumeral distance and the severity of a supraspinatus tendon tear.ConclusionsUltrasound is a reliable tool to measure acromiohumeral distance. A positive relationship was found between a narrowed acromiohumeral distance and the severity grading of a supraspinatus tendon tear. Reduced acromiohumeral distance can be considered a predictive parameter for a full-thickness supraspinatus tendon tear.Trial registrationThe study was prospectively registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry. Registration number: ChiCTR-ROC-17013550. Date of registry: 26 November 2017.

Is there a difference in the acromiohumeral distances measured on radiographic and magnetic resonance images of the same shoulder with a massive rotator cuff tear?

The purpose of our study was to compare the acromiohumeral distance (AHD) between radiographic and magnetic resonance images (MRIs) of the same shoulder with massive rotator cuff tears (MRCTs). Thirty-four shoulders with MRCTs that had an MRI and radiograph of the same shoulder within an average of 40.3 days (range: 8-109 days) were identified. AHD was measured digitally on radiograph and MRI by 3 examiners. Shoulders were grouped into Hamada grades <3 (group 1) and Hamada grades ≥3 (group 2). The mean age was 66.4 years (range: 51-89). There were 19 men (59%). The Kappa for inter-rater reliability was 0.982 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.975, 0.988) for radiographs and 0.88 (95% CI 0.75, 0.94) for MRI. There was a significant difference in the mean AHD of group 1 on radiograph vs. MRI (7.9 mm vs. 2.5 mm, respectively; P < .0001), but no difference in group 2 (1.8 mm vs. 2.2 mm, respectively; P = .45). There was no difference in AHD in group 1 between shoulders with Goutallier stage <3 (8.1 ± 1.9 mm) and those with Goutallier stage ≥3 (7.3 ± 2.1 mm) (P = .3479). There was no difference in AHD in group 2 between shoulders with Goutallier stage <3 (3.0 ± 0.1 mm) and those with Goutallier stage ≥3 (1.5 ± 1.0 mm) (P = .079). There is a significant difference in AHD measurements between radiograph and MRI of the same shoulder with MRCT in early Hamada grades. AHDs measured on radiograph and MRI should not be used interchangeably in early Hamada grades to assess outcomes of superior capsule reconstruction and similar procedures.

Clinical and Imaging Outcomes After Arthroscopic Superior Capsule Reconstruction With Human Dermal Allograft for Irreparable Posterosuperior Rotator Cuff Tears: A Minimum 2-Year Follow-Up

To report the clinical and structural outcomes for non-pseudoparalytic irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears treated with superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) using dermal allograft (DA). Patients who underwent SCR using DA with a mean thickness of 3 mm for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears and underwent surgery at least 2 years earlier were included. Outcomes were assessed prospectively by the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) scores; patient satisfaction; and visual analog scale for pain. Structurally, acromiohumeral distances (AHDs) were assessed both preoperatively and postoperatively (standard radiographs). Graft integrity was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging. Clinical failures were reported. We included 22 patients with a mean age of 56 years (range, 41-65 years) and a mean follow-up period of 2.1 years (range, 2-3 years). The ASES score improved from 54.0 to 83.9 (P < .001); the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score improved from 44.9 to 71.4 (P < .001); and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score (QuickDASH) improved from 37.6 to 16.2 (P= .001). Of the patients, 85% achieved an improvement in the ASES score that exceeded the minimal clinically important difference (11.1 points). The median patient satisfaction rating was 8.5 (range, 1-10). The median preoperative visual analog scale score decreased from 4 to 0 (range, 0-3) postoperatively (P < .001). Complete radiographs of 19 of 22 patients (86%) were obtained at a mean of 5.2 months (range, 1.4-10 months) postoperatively and showed a significant increase in the mean AHD from 7.0 mm preoperatively to 8.3 mm postoperatively (P= .029). Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging scans were obtained in 95% of the patients (21 of 22) at a mean of 2.5 months (range, 0.3-10.2 months) postoperatively and showed graft integrity rates of 100% (21 of 21) on the tuberosity side, 76% (16 of 21) at the midsubstance, and 81% (17 of 21) on the glenoid side. No significant differences in clinical outcome scores (P > 0.930) were found in patients with intact grafts versus those with torn grafts. The number of previous shoulder surgical procedures was a negative predictor of clinical outcome. There was 1 clinical failure. SCR using DA for irreparable tears improves outcomes with high satisfaction and high graft integrity at short-term follow-up. Graft integrity, although correlated with an increased AHD, had no correlation with clinical outcomes at final follow-up. Level IV, case series.

In vivo dynamic acromiohumeral distance in shoulders with rotator cuff tears

BackgroundThere are no previous studies on the acromiohumeral distance in shoulders with large-to-massive full-thickness rotator cuff tears. In this study, the acromiohumeral distance in rotator cuff tear and healthy shoulders was measured using 3D-to-2D model-to-image registration techniques. MethodsThe dynamic glenohumeral kinematics during scapular plane abduction and axial rotation were analyzed in 11 rotator cuff tear patients and 10 healthy control subjects. Periodic radiographic images of scapular plane abduction and axial rotation were taken using a flat-panel radiograph image detector. Movements of the shoulder joint were assessed using radiographic images and computed tomography-derived digitally reconstructed radiographs. The acromiohumeral distance was defined as the shortest 3D distance between the acromion and the proximal humerus. FindingsFor scapular plane abduction, the rotator cuff tear group had significantly smaller acromiohumeral distance than the control group at 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, 135°, and 150° of humeral abduction (P < 0.05 at each measured angle). For axial rotation in the adducted position, the rotator cuff tear group had significantly smaller acromiohumeral distance than the control group at each point between −20° and 40° of glenohumeral external rotation (P < 0.05 at each measured angle). InterpretationThe minimum measured acromiohumeral distance was 0.9 mm in the rotator cuff tear shoulders and 2.1 mm in the healthy shoulders at 90° of scapular plane abduction. The findings are of clinical relevance because quantitative evaluation of the dynamic acromiohumeral distances in rotator cuff tear and healthy shoulders might provide important insight into subacromial impingement.

Clinical and Radiological Results after Arthroscopic Superior Capsular Reconstruction in Patients with Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears.

BackgroundMassive, irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCTs) are a challenging clinical problem in young patients. In recent years, arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (ASCR) is a popular treatment in the massive, irreparable RCTs. However, studies reporting clinical results of ASCR are rare in the literature.MethodsBetween 2013 and 2015, six patients underwent ASCR. One patient treated with dermal allograft, while five patients with autogenous fascia lata graft. Demographic data, as well as preoperative and last follow-up clinical data including pain, range of motion (ROM), strength, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons system, the Constant system, the University of California at Los Angeles system, the Simple Shoulder Test, and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index system were obtained. Acromiohumeral distances and Hamada classification were measured on standard anteroposterior x-ray.ResultsAll patients were men, and the average age was 59.5 ± 4.18 years (range, 53–65 years).The minimum follow-up was 18 months with a mean follow-up was 27.33 ± 7.58 months (range, 18–36). All patients had postoperative improvement in pain scores and functional scores. The ROM and strength did not improve after surgery. The Hamada score progressed of radiographic stage in 2 patients. In the case of dermal allograft, there was graft failure 6 weeks after ASCR.ConclusionsOur results support the ASCR as a viable treatment for surgical salvage in massive, irreparable RCTs. This treatment option may provide patients with decreased pain and increased function. And studying our case of dermal allograft failure provides opportunities to decrease graft failure in ASCR using dermal allograft.

Anodal Transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation to Enhance Rehabilitation in Individuals With Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy: A Triple-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background Anodal transcranial direct-current stimulation (a-tDCS) has been shown to enhance the effects of sensorimotor training in neurological populations. Sensorimotor training leads to reduced pain and increased function in the treatment of rotator cuff tendinopathy. The addition of a-tDCS during a rehabilitation program centered on sensorimotor training may improve treatment outcomes in individuals with rotator cuff tendinopathy. Objective To compare 2 groups of individuals with rotator cuff tendinopathy, one receiving a rehabilitation program centered on sensorimotor training with a-tDCS and the other receiving the same rehabilitation program with sham a-tDCS. Methods In this triple-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial, 40 adults with rotator cuff tendinopathy participated in a 6-week rehabilitation program (8 treatments with home exercises and including sensorimotor training, patient education, and strengthening). They were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups to receive either real a-tDCS (stimulation, 1.5 mA for 30 minutes) or sham a-tDCS during the first 5 treatments. Symptoms and functional limitations (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire, Western Ontario Rotator Cuff index) of all participants were evaluated at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 weeks. Acromiohumeral distances (ultrasonographic measurement at 0°, 45°, and 60° of arm elevation) were assessed at baseline and 6 weeks. Two-way or 3-way repeated-measures analyses of variance were used for statistical analyses. Results Both groups showed statistically significant improvement in Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire and Western Ontario Rotator Cuff index scores at 3, 6, and 12 weeks, and in acromiohumeral distance at 45° and 60° at 6 weeks (P<.05). No significant group-by-time interaction was observed for all outcomes (P>.43). Conclusion Results do not demonstrate any improved treatment outcomes from the addition of a-tDCS during a rehabilitation program for individuals with rotator cuff tendinopathy. Level of Evidence Therapy, level 1b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2018;48(7):541-551. Epub 10 May 2018. doi:10.2519/jospt.2018.7871.

Preoperative Radiographic Risk Factors for Incomplete Arthroscopic Supraspinatus Tendon Repair in Massive Rotator Cuff Tears

To determine if preoperative imaging findings of massive rotator cuff (RC) tears were associated with (1) incomplete arthroscopic repair and (2) the use of advanced mobilization techniques (interval slides) and/or the use of a load-sharing rip stop repair construct. Eighty-six consecutive patients who underwent arthroscopic repair for massive RC tears performed by a single surgeon between July 2013 and July 2015 were retrospectively evaluated. Previously proposed radiographic risk factors for irreparability (acromiohumeral distances, tangent sign, and the Goutallier stage of fatty infiltration for the supraspinatus) were analyzed. Associations between preoperative imaging characteristics and intraoperative results of RC surgery were determined using binary logistic regressions and Fisher's exact tests. The interobserver reliability of imaging characteristics was determined using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Seventy-six massive RC tears were fully reparable (88%). In the case of 10 RC tears (12%), a complete repair was not obtained. Inability to obtain a complete repair of the supraspinatus was associated with a positive tangent sign (30% irreparable) versus a negative tangent sign (6.3% irreparable, odds ratio [OR]= 6.3, P= .0102) and with Goutallier grade 3-4 fatty infiltration of the supraspinatus (42.9% irreparable) versus grade 0-2 fatty infiltration (5.7% irreparable, OR= 11.8, P= .001). Advanced arthroscopic techniques (interval slides or load-sharing rip stop) for dealing with poor-quality or retracted tendon were used in 62% of cases; however, no associations were found between preoperative imaging characteristics and these techniques. Interobserver reliability was moderate (ICC= 0.75-0.90) for the tangent sign (ICC= 0.78) and high-grade (Goutallier 3-4) fatty infiltration of the supraspinatus (ICC= 0.74). A positive tangent sign and/or high-grade fatty infiltration (Goutallier 3-4) of the supraspinatus were risk factors for incomplete RC repair. However, these were not completely predictive of reparability because the majority of massive RC tears with these imaging characteristics were still fully reparable. Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Preoperative radiographic risk factors for incomplete arthroscopic supraspinatus tendon repair in massive rotator cuff tears

Purpose The purposes of this study were to: determine if preoperative imaging findings thought to be characteristic of massive RC tears were associated with the need for advanced mobilization techniques (interval slides), and/or the use of a load sharing rip stop (LSRS) repair construct, and to determine the extent to which these imaging findings predicted the likelihood of an incomplete arthroscopic repair. Methods Eighty-six consecutive patients that underwent arthroscopic repair for massive RC tears performed by a single surgeon were retrospectively evaluated. Previously proposed radiographic risk factors for irreparability (acromiohumeral distances, tangent sign and the Goutallier stage of fatty infiltration for the supraspinatus) were analyzed. Associations between preoperative imaging characteristics and intraoperative results of RC surgery were determined using binary logistic regressions and Fisher's exact tests. The inter-observer reliability of imaging characteristics was determined using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Results Seventy-six massive RC tears were fully reparable (88%). In the case of 10 RC tears (12%), a complete repair was not obtained. Inability to obtain a complete repair of the supraspinatus was associated with a positive tangent sign (30% irreparable) versus a negative tangent sign (6.3% irreparable, OR = 6.3, P = 0.0102) and with Goutallier grade 3–4 fatty infiltration of the supraspinatus (42.9% irreparable) versus grade 0–2 fatty infiltration (5.7% irreparable, OR = 11.8, P = 0.001). No associations were found between preoperative imaging characteristics and use of interval slides or LSRS. Inter-observer reliability was moderate (ICC 0.75–0.90) for the tangent sign (ICC = 0.78) and high-grade (Goutallier 3–4) fatty infiltration of the supraspinatus (ICC = 0.74). Conclusions A positive tangent sign and/or high-grade fatty infiltration (Goutallier 3–4) were risk factors for incomplete RC tear repair. However, these were not completely predictive of reparability, as the majority of massive RC tears with these imaging characteristics were still fully reparable.

Rotator cuff degeneration of the healthy shoulder in patients with unilateral arm amputation is not worsened by overuse.

In order to evaluate whether overuse has a significant role in rotator cuff tear (RCT) aetiology, we evaluated both shoulders of patients with old unilateral arm amputation expecting a higher rate of RC degeneration in the healthy side. Nineteen males and six females (mean age: 57.3±10.1) with an old (>20years) unilateral arm amputation were submitted to an MRI of both shoulders. Tendon status and muscle tropism were evaluated according to Sugaya and Fuchs classifications, respectively; the acromion humeral distance was measured. Statistical analysis was performed to verify the prevalence of Sugaya and Fuchs categories in each sides. A significant prevalence of Sugaya type II in the amputated side (p=0.02) and of type I in the healthy side (p<0.001) was found. Rotator cuff was healthy in 28 and 52% of amputated and non-amputated side, respectively. The mean acromio-humeral distances of the amputated and healthy side were 0.8cm (SD: 0.1) and 0.9cm (SD: 0.1), respectively, (p=0.02). A significant prevalence of Fuchs type II category in the healthy side (p<0.001) was found. Fuchs III/IV were observed in 40 and 12% of amputated and healthy side, respectively. The present study resizes the role of overuse on the aetiology of RCT. Cuff tear prevalence in not amputated shoulders, inevitably submitted to functional overload, was not higher than that of coetaneous subjects with two functional upper limbs. Shoulder non-use is a risk factor for rotator cuff tear. As the prevalence of rotator cuff degeneration/tear is higher in the amputee side, non-use is a more relevant risk factor than overuse. In the daily clinical practice, patients with rotator cuff tear should be encouraged to shoulder movement because rotator cuff tendon status could be worsened by disuse. III.

In vivo analysis of coracoid and subacromial shoulder impingement mechanism during clinical examination.

Understanding the mechanisms of shoulder impingement created by clinical tests is crucial to accurately evaluate the condition. The objective of this study was to relate mechanisms of subacromial and coracoid impingement occurring in positions of the shoulder during clinical examination, in quantitative and qualitative terms. A 1.0T open magnetic resonance imaging system was used in 18 female and 19 male subjects, to determine the distances between the humeral head and the acromion or coracoid, and contact with the rotator cuff (RC). Measurements were taken with the shoulder in neutral, "Hawkins", "Neer", and 90° abduction/15° internal rotation (horizontal impingement test) positions. Additionally, impingement was classified based on the grade of RC contact with the acromion or coracoid. In the Hawkins position, distance between the supraspinatus and the coracoid was closest (14.5±4.5mm), while the coracohumeral distance (CHD) narrowed (p<0.001). In the horizontal impingement test position, the minimum distance between the subscapularis and coracoid was found, whereas the CHD increased (27.4±5.7mm). In the Neer and Hawkins positions, the space between the greater tuberosity and acromion was significantly narrowed, which was also the case in the horizontal impingement test position compared to neutral position (p<0.001). Shoulder movements of forward flexion and internal rotation (Hawkins test) and abduction and internal rotation (horizontal impingement test) can lead to different coracoid impingement mechanisms during clinical examination. The Hawkins, Neer, and horizontal impingement tests lead to comparable narrowed acromiohumeral distances and subacromial contact of the RC. Therapeutic level III.