Full-thickness Rotator Cuff Tears Research Articles

An isolated bioinductive repair vs. sutured repair for full-thickness rotator cuff tears: 2-year results of a double blinded, randomized controlled trial

BackgroundPartial-thickness rotator cuff tears treated with an isolated bioinductive repair (IBR) in lieu of a completion-and-repair have shown complete healing. This treatment option is afforded by the remaining tendon’s structural integrity, which is similar to that present in small/medium full-thickness tears (FTTs) when the rotator cable remains intact. This randomized controlled trial (RCT) investigated whether an IBR for small/medium FTTs resulted in superior healing and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) compared with a sutured repair. MethodsThis prospective, double blinded (patients and outcome assessors), single-center RCT enrolled patients ≥18 years with a small/medium (≤2.5cm) full thickness supraspinatus tear and intact rotator cable. Patients were randomized and blinded to arthroscopic transosseous-equivalent repair (control, n = 30) or IBR (n = 30). The primary outcome was tendon quality on biopsy at 6 months. Secondary outcomes were PROs (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons [ASES], Constant-Murley Shoulder [CMS], and pain visual analogue scale scores) and tendon thickness and healing measured via MRI at 6, 12, and 24 months; satisfaction at 12 and 24 months; and time to return to work. ResultsBaseline demographic, tear, and surgical characteristics were comparable between the groups (IBR: mean age, 54.2 years, 14 male; control: mean age, 56.4 years, 16 male). Measured via 6 month biopsy, highly organized, parallel bundles of collagen, without inflammation, were present in all IBR patients, whereas poorly organized, non-parallel collagen fibers were present in 24/30 (80%) of control patients (P < .0001), with 28/30 having minimal to mild inflammation. The increase in tendon thickness measured via MRI at 6 months from baseline was greater in the IBR group (2.0 mm) than in the control group (0.8 mm) (P < .0001). All IBR patients had 100% healing on MRI at 12 and 24 months. Compared with the control group, the IBR group had higher ASES and CMS scores at each evaluation, less pain at 6 and 12 months, and greater satisfaction at 12 and 24 months (P < .0003). The IBR group returned to work significantly faster (median 90 days [IQR, 25] vs. median 163.5 days [IQR, 24]; P < .0001) than the control group. ConclusionCompared with a sutured repair, the IBR treatment resulted in superior tendon quality, patient outcomes, satisfaction, and return to work. The IBR enabled a robust healing response evident through MRI and biopsy evaluation, demonstrating superior tendon quality and healing.

Public Perceptions of Rotator Cuff Tears

(1) Background: Full-thickness rotator cuff tears (RCTs) impact 25% of those over 60 and 50% over 80; however, minimal data exists on public understanding; (2) Methods: The primary outcome was to determine the public’s baseline understanding of RCTs utilizing a 36-question survey regarding anatomy and function, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment options, and expectations. Secondarily, we evaluated the effect of an educational video and informational handout created by the authors to improve understanding. Participants ≥ 18 years were recruited from the senior author’s clinic and online discussion platforms over a 5-month period; (3) Results: Baseline surveys were completed by 382 individuals: 56% men, 64% Caucasian, 27% with at least a master’s degree, and 56% with very little or no RCT knowledge. Mean correct answer scores improved from 47% to 68% posteducational intervention (p &lt; 0.001). Males, higher education level, healthcare experience, and a higher self-rated understanding of RCTs were significantly correlated with higher survey performance (p &lt; 0.001); (4) Conclusions: The public’s knowledge of RCTs at baseline was poor, with demographic factors correlating with survey performance. The educational intervention effectively enhanced participants’ understanding. By focusing on common misconceptions, this data can help clinicians align patient expectations and enhance patient outcomes.

Arthroscopic cuff repair: footprint remnant preserving versus debriding rotator cuff repair of transtendinous rotator cuff tears with remnant cuff.

In transtendinous full thickness rotator cuff tears (FTRCT) with remnant cuff, conventionally, cuff remnant of the greater tuberosity (GT) is debrided for better tendon to bone healing. However, larger cuff defect caused overtension on the repaired tendon. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes and tendon integrity between remnant preserving and remnant debriding cuff repairs in the transtendinous FTRCT with remnant cuff. From March, 2012 to October, 2017, a total of 127 patients who had the transtendinous FTRCT with remnant cuff were enrolled in this study. Rotator cuff tears were repaired arthroscopically, with patients divided into two groups: group I (n = 63), where rotator cuff remnants were preserved during the repair, and group II (n = 64), where the remnants were debrided during the repair. Clinical outcomes were assessed at the last follow-up (minimum 2 years) using the UCLA score, ASES score, SST score, Constant Shoulder score, and range of motion (ROM). The analysis of structural integrity and tendon quality was performed using the Sugaya classification on postoperative MRI scans at 8 months after surgery. At the final follow-up, UCLA, ASES, SST, and CS scores significantly improved from preoperative values to postoperative (all p < 0.05): UCLA (I: 19.6 ± 6.0 to 31.7 ± 3.2, II: 18.0 ± 5.7 to 31.5 ± 3.2), ASES (I: 54.3 ± 10.7 to 86.5 ± 12.5, II: 18.0 ± 5.7 to 85.8 ± 12.4), SST (I: 5.6 ± 2.8 to 10.2 ± 2.0, II: 5.0 ± 2.9 to 10.1 ± 2.5), CS (I: 74.0 ± 17.2 to 87.8 ± 9.7, II: 62.0 ± 19.2 to 88.3 ± 6.2). However, there were no significant differences between the two groups (p > 0.05). Also, remnant preserving cuff repair yielded significantly better tendon quality on postoperative MRI (p < 0.05). The incidence of re-tear (Sugaya's Type IV and V) was not significantly different between the two groups (I:17% vs. II:19%; p = 0.053). Remnant preserving rotator cuff repairs, which facilitate tendon-to-tendon healing, are superior in terms of tendon quality and are the preferred option for transtendinous FTRCT. Retrospectively registered.

Socioeconomic and Other Risk Factors for Retear after Arthroscopic Surgery for Nontraumatic Rotator Cuff Tear.

Background and Objectives: Few studies have investigated the socioeconomic factors associated with retear after rotator cuff repair. This study aimed to identify the risk factors, including socioeconomic factors, for rotator cuff retear in patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 723 patients diagnosed with full-thickness rotator cuff tears who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair from March 2010 to March 2021. The outcome variable was rotator cuff retear observed on postoperative magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasonography. Sex, age, obesity, diabetes, symptom duration, and tear size were the independent variables. Socioeconomic variables included occupation, educational level, type of medical insurance, and area of residence. We compared patients with and without retear and estimated the effects of the independent factors on retear risk. Results: The mean age of the patients, symptom duration, and tear size were 62.4 ± 8.0 years, 1.8 ± 1.7 years, and 21.8 ± 12.5 mm, respectively. The age, type of medical insurance, diabetes, tear size, and symptom duration differed significantly between patients with and without retearing (p < 0.05). Age, occupation, type of medical insurance, diabetes, initial tear size, and symptom duration significantly affected the risk of retear. Patients who performed manual labor had a significantly higher retear rate (p = 0.005; OR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.23-3.11). The highest retear risk was seen in patients with Medicaid insurance (p < 0.001; OR, 4.34; 95% CI, 2.09-9.02). Conclusions: Age, initial tear size, and symptom duration significantly affect retear risk after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Occupation and type of medical insurance were also risk factors for retear. Socioeconomically vulnerable patients may be at a greater risk of retear. Proactive efforts are required to expand early access to medical care.

Knowledge and Care Quality of Physiotherapy Technologists in the Management of Common Shoulder Disorders: Results from a Survey in the Province of Quebec, Canada

Purpose: In Québec, physiotherapy technologist (Phys.T.) scope of practice allows them to complete the evaluation and treat various musculoskeletal disorders, including shoulder disorders, after an initial assessment by a referring provider. They may need to re-evaluate and refer back to the providers if a patient does not progress in a satisfactory manner. Our purpose is to evaluate knowledge and care of practicing Phys.T. in identifying and managing overall care for common shoulder disorders. Method: A survey presented four clinical vignettes featuring common shoulder disorders. Survey participants provided information regarding diagnosis, imaging recommendations, specialist referrals, medical and rehabilitation care, and their confidence in managing these clinical cases. Responses were compared to recommendations from selected clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). Results: 43 Phys.T. completed the survey, with the majority accurately identifying common shoulder disorders across all vignettes (74%–94%). Compliance with CPGs was observed for rotator cuff tendinopathy (60%) and adhesive capsulitis (61%), with most Phys.T. refraining from initial imaging tests. However, a significant proportion recommended imaging for acute full-thickness rotator cuff tear (52%) and recurrent traumatic glenohumeral instability (80%), in line with CPGs. Education and exercises were prioritized in all vignettes as per CPGs, although a proportion favored passive physical modalities not endorsed by CPGs (13%–72%). Conclusion: Most Phys.T. demonstrated adequate identification and management of shoulder disorders, reflecting their collaborative role in patient care. However, discrepancies existed in adherence to evidence-based recommendations, suggesting the need for additional training to optimize care pathways and inter-professional collaborations for shoulder and musculoskeletal disorders.

Identification of rare genetic variants for rotator cuff tearing and repair in high-risk pedigrees

BackgroundCommon genetic variants with small effect sizes have been associated with rotator cuff tearing although very few rare, highly penetrant variants have been identified. The purpose of this pilot study was to identify dominant coding variants that segregated with affected individuals in pedigrees at high risk for rotator cuff tears. We hypothesize that rare variants contribute to symptomatic rotator cuff tears and that they can be identified in related cases with a full-thickness tear requiring surgical management. MethodsWe used the Utah Population Database (UPDB) to identify pedigrees that exhibited a significant excess of individuals who had undergone surgical repair of a full thickness rotator cuff tear. We analyzed whole exome sequence analysis to identify rare coding variants in 9 independent affected cousin pairs (first or second cousins) who had undergone arthroscopic surgery for repair of a full thickness rotator cuff tear (mean age at diagnosis 68 years). Validation of association of the candidate variants with risk for rotator cuff tearing was accomplished utilizing data from the UK Biobank and a separate cohort of unrelated cases of full thickness rotator cuff tears. ResultsA total of 82 rare (minor allele frequency <0.005) coding variants were identified as shared in at least one cousin pair affected with full thickness rotator cuff tearing belonging to a high-risk pedigree, which included variants in RUNX1, ADAM12, TGFBR2, APBB1, PDLIM7, LTBP1, MAP3K4 and MAP3K1. Analysis of 39 of these variants with data available in the UK Biobank (3,899 cases with rotator cuff injury and 11,697 matched controls; mean case age 59.9 years) identified a significant association with the APBB1 gene (OR=2.37, p=0.007, uncorrected). The PDLIM7 allele was found to be in significant excess in rotator cuff tear cases in a separate cohort of Utah patients with full thickness rotator cuff tears (10 carriers out of 458 independent, unrelated patients; minor allele frequency of 0.022) compared to a minor allele frequency of 0.0058 for the European (non-Finnish) control population rate (749 carriers out of 128612 tested) (chi square test: 19.3 (p<0.001). DiscussionThe analysis of closely related individuals with confirmed full thickness rotator cuff tears from high-risk pedigrees has identified 82 rare, shared candidate genetic predisposition coding variants. Association of the PDLIM7 allele with risk for tear was confirmed in an independent cohort of rotator cuff tears. Further analysis of the variant alleles is required for confirmation of these genes in rotator cuff tearing.

Arthroscopic Surgery Combined With Platelet-Rich Plasma Does Not Significantly Improve Pain, Function, Complications, and Retear Rate Compared With Arthroscopic Surgery Alone for Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

PurposeTo evaluate the effectiveness and safety of arthroscopic surgery combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) compared to arthroscopic surgery alone in the treatment of patients with full-thickness rotator cuff tears (RCT). MethodsThe Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, EBSCO, Web of Science, CNKI, and Wanfang Database were systematically searched from inception to November 2023. Subject words combined with free words were used to collect randomized controlled trials focusing on arthroscopic surgery combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in the treatment of full-thickness RCT. The assessment of evidence quality employed the Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias tool, and data analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3 software. ResultsA total of 9 studies with 537 patients were included. The meta-analysis revealed that compared to the arthroscopic surgery alone group, the summary result of UCLA scores in the arthroscopic combined with PRP group was [MD = 1.08, 95% CI 0.19∼1.97, P = 0.02], subgroup analysis of surgical suture method VAS Single-row [MD = -1.00, 95% CI -1.50∼-0.50, P<0.0001], VAS Double-row [MD = -0.10, 95%CI -0.17∼-0.02, P=0.02], CMS Single-row [MD = 3.49, 95%CI 0.32∼ 6.66, P=0.03], the difference was statistically significant, and the differences in VAS, CMS, qDASH, complications and retear rate were not statistically significant. ConclusionsPatients undergoing arthroscopic repair combined with PRP treatment showed no difference in pain, function, complications, and retear rate compared to those treated with arthroscopic surgery alone.

Effects of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair on isokinetic muscle function 6-months following surgery: influence of tear type, tear size and tendon retraction

BackgroundRotator cuff tears are a common musculoskeletal condition which can lead to functional limitations and impairments in quality of life. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of arthroscopic repair surgery on isokinetic muscle function before and 6-months after surgery. Additionally, the mediating effects of tear type, tear size and tendon retraction were examined. MethodsData from n = 67 patients (56 ± 9 years) with full-thickness rotator cuff tears were analyzed. Before and 6-months after surgery, isokinetic muscle function in external/internal rotation and abduction/adduction movements was assessed. Further, tear size, tear type (Collin classification) and tendon retraction (Patte classification) were analyzed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). ResultsAfter statistical analysis, a significant increase in limb symmetry index (LSI) of external (p < 0.001), internal rotation (p < 0.01), abduction (p < 0.001) and adduction (p < 0.001) were observed from pre- to post-surgery. The results revealed that tear size and tendon tear type significantly mediated the functional outcome, with no significant effect of tendon retraction. ConclusionThe present findings point towards the notion that the functional outcome following rotator cuff repair was significantly dependent on tear type and tear size but not tendon retraction. Patients with larger sized tears presented pronounced deficits following 6-months indicating that rehabilitation times need to be adjusted accordingly.

Magnetic resonance imaging for relationship between the severity of perianchor fluid collection and rotator cuff integrity after arthroscopic double-row suture-bridge rotator cuff repair

PurposeThe primary purpose of this study was to assess perianchor fluid collection (PFC) severity of medial anchor and rotator cuff integrity association after arthroscopic double-row suture-bridge rotator cuff repair (RCR) and the secondary purpose was to identify the demographic and radiologic risk factors for high-grade PFC. HypothesisRe-tear rate would be significant higher in patients with high-grade PFC. MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed patients with arthroscopic double-row suture-bridge RCR for full-thickness rotator cuff tear (RCT) at our institution between February 2012 and May 2018. Based on the PFC severity, they were divided into the no-fluid (no fluid collection), low-grade (minimal or local fluid collection around the anchor), and high-grade (fluid collection beyond the entire length of the anchor) groups. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed 6 months postoperatively for assessing PFC severity and repaired rotator cuff integrity association, besides evaluating correlation between severity and various demographic and radiologic factors, including work level (low/medium/high) and RCT size. ResultsThis study included 312 patients, 181 (58%) in the no fluid group, 82 (26.3%) in the low-grade PFC group, and 49 (15.7%) in the high-grade PFC group. Re-tear occurred in 73 (23.4%) patients and was more frequent in the high-grade group (26/49 [53.1%]) than in the no-fluid (27/181 [14.9%]; p<0.001) and low-grade (20/82 [24.4%]; p=0.001) groups, without statistically significant differences between the latter two (p=0.082). Among the demographic factors, work level (low/medium/high) differed significantly between the no-fluid (22.1%/58.0%/19.9%), low-grade (25.7%/46.3%/28.0%), and high-grade (26.5%/34.7%/38.8%) groups (p=0.026). Among the radiologic factors, the mediolateral tear size differed significantly between the three groups (no-fluid group: 1.7±0.8cm, low-grade group: 1.8±0.6cm, high-grade group: 2.2±1.0cm; p=0.003). Multivariate regression analysis showed that mediolateral tear size (odds ratio: 1.821; 95% confidence interval: 1.258–2.636; p=0.001) was an independent risk factor for high-grade PFC. ConclusionsAfter arthroscopic double-row suture-bridge RCR, the highest re-tear rate was observed in patients with high-grade PFC, while there was no significant difference in rates between no-fluid and low-grade PFC groups. As PFC severity increased, the risk of re-tear increased. In particular, larger mediolateral tear size was associated with high-grade PFC. Level of evidenceIII; case-control study.

Dermal Allograft Augmentation for Large and Massive Rotator Cuff Tears and Revisions: A Case Series.

Introduction Arthroscopic advancements have notably improved rotator cuff repair, yet the healing of tendons and retear risks still pose significant challenges, especially with massive and large tears. These larger tears have shown a quadruple increase in retear rate when the tear size grows from 1-3 cm. The prevalent cause of failure, particularly in tears with fatty degeneration, is suture tearing.As such, techniques that enhance tendon healing are pivotal due to their correlation with improved functional outcomes. Dermal allograft augmentation (DAA) is one method that has demonstrated improvements in rotator cuff repair biomechanics, as well as the promotion of vascularization and neotendon formation. This study evaluates the efficacy of DAA in the postoperative healing of large and massive rotator cuff tears, assessed through patient-reported outcomes and functional range of motion. Methods This retrospective study reviewed a single surgeon's database, selecting patients who underwent arthroscopic surgery for full-thickness rotator cuff tears measuring at least 3 cm, or those with maximum stage II fatty infiltration of the supraspinatus or infraspinatus muscle on MRI. We used three validated patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon Score (ASES), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), and Simple Shoulder Test (SST), alongside a range of motion metrics, external rotation (ER), and forward flexion (FF). These were recorded pre-operatively and, at minimum, one year post-operatively, with a standard student t-test employed for comparative analysis. Results Out of 18 total patients, the average age was 61 years, and 83% were male. The cause of injury was mostly traumatic in nature (n=11), with the remainder being chronic (n=7). All three PROs (n=11) demonstrated a statistically significant increase in score including ASES (p=0.003), SANE (p=0.004), and SST (p=0.039). External rotation also significantly improved pre- to post-operative function (46 vs 58, p=0.049).Three patients (17%) suffered from a retear within three months of their rotator cuff repair. Two patients (11%) required a reverse shoulder arthroplasty within a year. Conclusion Our study demonstrated that DAA in rotator cuff repair yielded notable functional and clinical advancements, with a moderately low retear rate as confirmed by ultrasound. These outcomes suggest that DAA is a promising intervention for large and historically difficult rotator cuff tears, offering significant implications for future treatment protocols.

O142: Current clinical applications and limitations of graft augmentation in rotator cuff repair: a systematic review

Abstract Background Rotator cuff tears (RCTs) are a leading source of chronic and acute shoulder pain globally, with causes spanning from tendon degeneration to traumatic injury. Especially prevalent in the aging population, RCTs have a significant retear rate despite surgical intervention, and recent years have seen an increase in the use of grafts in surgery to address many of the clinical issues previously encountered in tendon-healing. Objectives To compare the effectiveness of various grafts in graft-augmentation surgery for full-thickness rotator cuff tears, assessed with functional and clinical outcomes. Selection criteria Adult patients with MRI-diagnosed full-thickness RCT and subsequently underwent graft-augmentation surgery; followed-up &amp;gt;1year, with assessment for retear and quantitative clinical outcomes. Results 32 primary studies, mean follow-up of 2 years and total of 1052 patients were included. The effectiveness of graft-augmentation was assessed using retear rate, ASES, Constant, UCLA and VAS. Graft-augmentation significantly improves all functional and clinical scores (p&amp;lt;0.05), and decreases retear rate to an average of 18.5% &amp;gt;1year post-surgery (p&amp;lt;0.0001), with no significant difference in effectiveness between the 4 different types of grafts. (p&amp;gt;0.05). No significant difference in outcomes was found in graft-augmentation between different tear sizes. Conclusions Graft augmentation for RCTs shows significant improvements in clinical and functional outcomes, and significantly lowers retear rate compared to conservative treatment or surgery without graft augmentation. The choice of graft has been shown to be of less importance than the clinical decision to use surgical-intervention with graft-augmentation, which applies to full-thickness tears of all sizes; both primary and revision tears.

Ultrasonic shear wave elastography predicts the quality of the residual tendon before the rotator cuff repair

Background and purposeEffective evaluation of rotator cuff tear residual tendon quality is the key to surgical repair. However, until now, the evaluation of rotator cuff tissue by ultrasonic shear wave elasticity (SWE) has been controversial. This prospective study analyzed the association between preoperative SWE and arthroscopic residual tendon quality scores.MethodsThe shear wave velocity (SWV) of the deltoid muscle, the supraspinatus tendon, and the supraspinatus muscle were measured in full-thickness rotator cuff tear patients. Tendon quality was scored according to tear size, tendon margin, tendon thickness, and footprint coverage during arthroscopy. The arthroscopic scores were used as the gold standard, and the SWV ratio of tendon and muscle (supraspinatus tendon/deltoid and supraspinatus muscle/deltoid) were calculated and correlated with the arthroscopic scores.ResultEighty-nine patients (129 shoulders) were enrolled, including 89 operation shoulders and 40 control shoulders. In the group of operation shoulders, both the SWV ratios of tendon (SWV-RT) and the SWV ratio of muscle (SWV-RM) were negatively correlated with arthroscopic scores (The correlation coefficient (R) ranged from -0.722 to -0.884 and -0.569 to -0.689). The SWV-RT and SWV-RM of the operation shoulders were significantly lower than that of the control shoulders (p < 0.05).ConclusionSWE could be used to predict the quality of the residual tendon before the rotator cuff repair. SWV of the supraspinatus tendon and muscle was a useful parameter to predict the quality of the residual tendon.Critical relevance statementMeasuring the shear wave velocity of the supraspinatus tendon and muscle with SWE is useful for predicting the quality of the residual tendon which is one of the key factors for a successful rotator cuff repair.Key points• Evaluating the quality of the residual tendon is important before surgery.• Elasticity measurements were negatively correlated with the arthroscopic score.• SWE is useful for predicting the quality of the residual tendon.Graphical

Role of Critical Shoulder Angle in Degenerative Type Rotator Cuff Tears: A Turkish Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND This retrospective study investigated the association between the critical shoulder angle (CSA) and the development of full-thickness rotator cuff tears (FTRCTs) in the Turkish population. The CSA is an imaging parameter that quantifies the relationship between the inclination of the glenoid and the lateral extension of the acromion in the coronal plane. The CSA is an anatomical measurement, and higher CSA values have been associated with an increased incidence of FTRCTs. However, there is a lack of data on CSA regarding the Turkish population. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this study, CSA measurements were recorded in 2 groups: 50 patients with FTRCT who had arthroscopic repair (group 1) and 50 age- and sex-matched individuals with no FTRCT detected by magnetic resonance imaging (group 2). Sex, age, affected side, dominant side, and smoking status were recorded for each patient. The CSA measurements of the affected sides were performed on true anterior-posterior view radiographs. RESULTS The results showed a statistically significant difference between the mean CSA values of group 1 (37.48°) and group 2 (33.53°), P<0.001. CSA values of 36 and above had a sensitivity of 73.58%, specificity of 74.47%, positive predictive value of 75%, and negative predictive value of 74.47% for detecting FTRCT. CONCLUSIONS CSA measurement on radiographs is a useful diagnostic tool in the Turkish population, and an above-average CSA value is associated with a significantly increased incidence of degenerative-type FTRCT.

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair in active patients younger than 45 Years: a prospective analysis with a mean 5-year follow-up

PurposeTo report clinical and activity specific outcomes after arthroscopic RCR(ARCR) for full-thickness supraspinatus tears in active individuals younger than or equal to 45 years of age. The pre hoc hypothesis was that patients in this age group would demonstrate significant improvements in clinical outcomes following ARCR along with a significant improvement of athletic abilities. MethodsPatients were included in this study if they were (1)active individuals between 18 and 45 years of age at the time of surgery, (2)had a full-thickness rotator cuff tear(RCT) of the supraspinatus tendon with or without anterior or posterior extension and (3)underwent ARCR. Pre- and postoperative patient-reported outcomes scores including the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons(ASES) score, Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand(Quick-DASH), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation(SANE), Short Form-12 Physical Component Summary(SF-12PCS) were prospectively collected and postoperative patient satisfaction(scale of 1-10) was recorded at a minimum of 2 years postoperatively. Attainment of the minimal clinically important difference(MCID) and patient acceptable symptom state(PASS) for the ASES was calculated. Athletic activity specific outcomes and return to activity(RTA) were investigated prospectively via a custom-made comprehensive questionnaire. ResultsBetween 11/2005 and 6/2020, of 1149 RCRs performed by the senior author, 54 patients (mean age 40.9 years,13 female; follow-up 69.7 ± 35.2 months in a range of 24.6 – 179.6 months) were included into the outcomes analysis. Of those, 4 patients(7.4%) had progressed to revision rotator cuff repair. At a follow-up of 5.8 years, outcome scores had significantly improved compared to preoperative baselines (ASES55.6±13.8to90.1+15.8;p<.001;QuickDASH38.9±18.4to 11.9±17.1;p<.001, SANE60.7±22.7to79.3±27.6;p=.001, SF-12PCS41.6±8.3to51.9±9.0;p<=.001). 93.6% of the patients reached the MCID and 72.6% reached the PASS. Median satisfaction was 9.5/10. 86% of the patients returned to sports, while 67% of the patients returned to a similar level compared to preoperatively. All sport specific metrics such as shoulder strength and endurance(p<.001), intensity(p<.001), and impairments from pain affecting speed(p=0.002), endurance(p=.002) and competition(p<.001) significantly improved postoperatively. ConclusionARCR of full-thickness RCT in active individuals aged 45 or younger results in a clinically relevant improvement of outcomes, function and quality of life at a minimum of 2 years and mean 5.8-year follow-up with a low rate of revision. While 86% of patients were able to RTA and sport specific outcome metrics significantly and substantially improved compared to preoperatively, a return to preinjury levels was not reliably achieved in all patients, with particular limitations observed in overhead active individuals. The data support the hypothesis that patients in this age group demonstrate significant improvements in clinical outcomes following ARCR along with significant improvements in athletic abilities.

Critical Shoulder Angle in Patients With Cuff Tears.

The pathogenesis of rotator cuff tears (RCTs) is multifactorial. Critical shoulder angle (CSA), which represents the lateral extension of the acromion over the cuff, has been proposed as an extrinsic risk factor. The aim of the present systematic review and meta-analysis was to analyze the available literature regarding the correlation between RCT and CSA. A review was carried out in accordance with the "Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses" guidelines on July 17, 2023, using the following databases: PubMed, Ovid, and Cochrane Reviews. The following keywords were used: "critical shoulder angle," "rotator cuff tears," and "rotator cuff lesions." The methodological quality of the studies was assessed with the MINORS SCORE. Twenty-eight studies were included. The average CSA among the 2110 patients with full-thickness RCT was 36.7 degrees, whereas the same value among the 2972 controls was 33.1 degrees. The average CSA in the 348 patients with partial-thickness RCT was 34.6 degrees, whereas it was 38.1 degrees in the 132 patients with massive RCT. The average MINORS score was 15.6. CSA values were significantly higher in patients with RCT compared with the asymptomatic population. In addition, it appears that CSA values increase with the severity of rotator cuff involvement.

Histological and biochemical changes in a rat rotator cuff tear model with or without the subacromial bursa

The subacromial bursa (SAB) plays an important role in the tendon healing process. Based on previous reports, co-culture of the rotator cuff (RC) and SAB have been shown to increase the tendon-related gene expressions, inflammatory cytokines, and tensile strength. However, the nature of the specific biochemical alterations during the inflammatory and repair phases of tendon healing with or without the SAB remain unknown. Using a full-thickness RC tear rat model, we determined how the presence or absence of the SAB alters the histological characteristics and gene expressions. After 3 and 6 weeks, tissues were collected for histological and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) evaluations. Results showed greater cell density at 3 weeks, neovascularization and tendon thickening at 6 weeks with SAB preservation. Immunostaining revealed significant increases in type 3 collagen (COL3) expression at 6 weeks with SAB preservation. The RT-qPCR results showed that SAB preservation induced significant increases in the expression of scleraxis, matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) at 3 weeks and significant increases in COL3, IL-10, and arginase-1 (Arg-1) at 6 weeks. An RC tear undergoes more appropriate inflammatory and repair phases during the tendon healing process when the SAB is retained.

Retracted: Effect of Arthroscopic Acromioplasty Combined with Rotator Cuff Repair in the Treatment of Aged Patients with Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tear and Rotator Cuff Injury.

[This retracts the article DOI: 10.1155/2022/4475087.].

Functional and Radiologic Outcomes of Degenerative Versus Traumatic Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears Involving the Supraspinatus Tendon

Background: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) is among the most commonly performed orthopaedic procedures. Several factors—including age, sex, and tear severity—have been identified as predictors for outcome after repair. The influence of the tear etiology on functional and structural outcome remains controversial. Purpose: To investigate the influence of tear etiology (degenerative vs traumatic) on functional and structural outcomes in patients with supraspinatus tendon tears. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: Patients undergoing ARCR from 19 centers were prospectively enrolled between June 2020 and November 2021. Full-thickness, nonmassive tears involving the supraspinatus tendon were included. Tears were classified as degenerative (chronic shoulder pain, no history of trauma) or traumatic (acute, traumatic onset, no previous shoulder pain). Range of motion, strength, the Subjective Shoulder Value, the Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), and the Constant-Murley Score (CMS) were assessed before (baseline) and 6 and 12 months after ARCR. The Subjective Shoulder Value and the OSS were also determined at the 24-month follow-up. Repair integrity after 12 months was documented, as well as additional surgeries up to the 24-month follow-up. Tear groups were compared using mixed models adjusted for potential confounding effects. Results: From a cohort of 973 consecutive patients, 421 patients (degenerative tear, n = 230; traumatic tear, n = 191) met the inclusion criteria. The traumatic tear group had lower mean baseline OSS and CMS scores but significantly greater score changes 12 months after ARCR (OSS, 18 [SD, 8]; CMS, 34 [SD,18] vs degenerative: OSS, 15 [SD, 8]; CMS, 22 [SD, 15]) (P < .001) and significantly higher 12-month overall scores (OSS, 44 [SD, 5]; CMS, 79 [SD, 9] vs degenerative: OSS, 42 [SD, 7]; CMS, 76 [SD, 12]) (P≤ .006). At the 24-month follow-up, neither the OSS (degenerative, 44 [SD, 6]; traumatic, 45 [SD, 6]; P = .346) nor the rates of repair failure (degenerative, 14 [6.1%]; traumatic 12 [6.3%]; P = .934) and additional surgeries (7 [3%]; 7 [3.7%]; P = .723) differed between groups. Conclusion: Patients with degenerative and traumatic full-thickness supraspinatus tendon tears who had ARCR show satisfactory short-term functional results. Although patients with traumatic tears have lower baseline functional scores, they rehabilitate over time and show comparable clinical results 1 year after ARCR. Similarly, degenerative and traumatic rotator cuff tears show comparable structural outcomes, which suggests that degenerated tendons retain healing potential.

Functional and Radiological Out Comes of Patients With Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears Repaired By arthroscopic Knotted-Suture Bridge Double Row Method

Functional and Radiological Out Comes of Patients With Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears Repaired By arthroscopic Knotted-Suture Bridge Double Row Method

Outcomes of initial nonoperative treatment of traumatic full-thickness rotator cuff tears

IntroductionNon-surgical management of chronic, degenerative rotator cuff tears (RCT) can be an effective treatment strategy, but there is limited evidence to support conservative treatment for acute, traumatic RCTs. The objective of this study is to assess clinical outcomes and predictors of treatment success for patients with traumatic RCTs who elected for initial non-operative treatment. MethodsPatients from a single institution were retrospectively identified using diagnostic codes for traumatic RCT followed by confirmed initial treatment with at least 2 months of physical therapy. Exclusion criteria included surgery within 2 months of injury and greater than grade I fatty infiltration on MRI. At minimum 2-year follow-up, patients were contacted by phone to collect interval surgical history and standardized patient reported outcomes. All those who had surgical treatment and those with satisfaction ratings of “moderately dissatisfied” and “very dissatisfied” were considered to have failed physical therapy. ResultsFollow-up outcomes were obtained in forty of 49 patients (82%) with an average follow-up time of 4.2 years. Nine RCTs (22%) were small (< 1cm), 22 (54%) were medium (>1 and < 3cm), and 9 (22%) were large (> 3 cm and < 5cm). Grade I fatty infiltration was seen on 25% (n=10) of MRIs. Eighteen patients (45%) underwent rotator cuff repair following an average 6 months (R: 3-12) of nonoperative treatment. In total, 23 of 40 patients (58%) were determined to have failed nonoperative treatment. Patients with multiple tendons torn were more likely to fail conservative management (p=0.014). Tear size and retraction were not significantly different between patents who had surgery and those who did not. Patients who underwent surgical management had 83% satisfaction rate at final follow-up compared to 55% satisfaction for patients who had no surgery (p=0.054). There was no statistical difference in the ASES (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score) and VAS (Visual Analog Scale) between these groups. While patients who had surgery had a higher mean SANE (Single Alpha Numeric Evaluation) (86.3 vs. 75.1; p=0.041), this difference was below the previously established minimally clinically important difference. ConclusionNon-operative treatment remains a viable option for certain patients with traumatic RCTs; however, the results of our study demonstrate a considerable early failure rate. This study further supports historical literature demonstrating reliably successful outcomes with surgical treatment of acute, traumatic RCTs. Level of EvidenceLevel IV; Case Series; Treatment Study