Mean Acromiohumeral Distance Research Articles

Long-term outcomes of anterior latissimus dorsi tendon transfer for irreparable subscapularis tears.

Favourable short-term outcomes have been reported following latissimus dorsi tendon transfer for patients with an irreparable subscapularis (SSC) tendon tear. The aim of this study was to investigate the long-term outcomes of this transfer in these patients. This was a retrospective study involving 30 patients with an irreparable SSC tear and those with a SSC tear combined with a reparable supraspinatus tear, who underwent a latissimus dorsi tendon transfer. Clinical scores and active range of motion (aROM), SSC-specific physical examination and the rate of return to work were assessed. Radiological assessment included recording the acromiohumeral distance (AHD), the Hamada grade of cuff tear arthropathy and the integrity of the transferred tendon. Statistical analysis compared preoperative, short-term (two years), and final follow-up at a mean of 8.7 years (7 to 10). There were significant improvements in clinical scores, in the range and strength of internal rotation and aROM compared with the preoperative values in the 26 patients (87%) who were available for long-term follow-up. These improvements were maintained between short- and long-term follow-ups. Although there was a decreased mean AHD of 7.3 mm (SD 1.5) and an increased mean Hamada grade of 1.7 (SD 0.5) at final follow-up, the rate of progression of cuff tear arthropathy remained low-grade. Comparison between the isolated SSC and combined SSC and reparable supraspinatus tear groups showed no significant differences. At final follow-up, one patient (3.8%) had undergone revision surgery to a reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). No neurological complications were associated with the procedure. Latissimus dorsi transfer for an irreparable SSC tendon tear resulted in a significant clinical improvement, particularly in pain, range and strength of internal rotation and aROM, which were maintained over a mean of 8.7 years following surgery. Given that this was a long-term outcome study, there was a low-grade progression in the rate of cuff tear arthropathy. Thus, the long-term clinical efficacy of latissimus dorsi tendon transfer in patients with irreparable SSC was confirmed as a joint-preserving procedure for these patients, suggesting it as an effective alternative to RSA in young, active patients without degenerative changes of the glenohumeral joint.

A comprehensive analysis of the acromial morphology and etiological factors of partial rotator cuff tears

BackgroundRotator cuff tears are divided into complete and partial tears, and partial rotator cuff tears include articular-sided tears and bursal-sided tears. Tears are caused by extrinsic, intrinsic, or traumatic factors; however, the mechanisms by which partial tears occur remain unknown. Recent reports have described the correlation between acromial morphology and rotator cuff tears. To date, no reports have investigated acromial morphology in partial tears. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the incidence of abnormal acromial morphology in both partial articular-sided and bursal-sided rotator cuff tears. MethodsPatients with supraspinatus tendons that had articular-sided tears were categorized into Group A, and patients who had bursal-sided tears were categorized into Group B. Patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair for rotator cuff tears were assessed based on their diagnosis of Group A or Group B according to arthroscopic findings. The following items were examined: age, sex, presence of diabetes mellitus, acromiohumeral distance (AHD), critical shoulder angle (CSA), lateral acromial angle (LAA), sagittal and coronal morphologies of the acromion, and traumatic shoulder tears. ResultsThere were 39 patients in Group A and 95 patients in Group B. A significantly greater rate of presence of diabetic was found in the JST group. There were no significant differences in age, sex, or frequency of traumatic shoulder tears. The mean AHD, CSA, and LAA in Group A and Group B were as follows: AHD, 9.4±1.5 and 9.3±1.4 mm; CSA, 32.1±4.6 and 35.3±4.4 degrees; LAA, 82.2±7.2 and 79.9±7.0 degrees. There were no significant differences between the groups. Although the CSA was significantly greater in Group B, there was no significant difference in the AHD or LAA. There was no significant difference in sagittal acromial morphology; however, Group B had significantly more inferior osteophytes of the acromial center in the coronal plane. ConclusionsGroup B was found to have a significantly larger mean CSA compared to group A. Group B occurred more often in patients with inferior osteophytes of the acromial center on the acromion, suggesting the involvement of extrinsic factors.

The effect of reduced acromiohumeral distance and increased acromial thickness on the risk of rotator cuff tear.

This study aimed to determine the effect of reduced acromiohumeral distance (AHD) and increased acromial thickness (AT) on the risk of rotator cuff tear (RCT). Patients aged 25-70 were included in this retrospective study. Patients who were operated on for RCT between January 2019 and December 2021 were included in group 1, and patients who applied to the outpatient clinic in the same period with a complaint of shoulder pain and no problem on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were included in group 2. Three researchers performed AHD and AT measurements on the same true anteroposterior (AP) shoulder radiographs. The second measurement was performed 1 month later when, the first measurements were completed. Radiographs of 284 patients in group 1 and 234 patients in group 2 were evaluated. In group 1, the mean AHD measurement was 8.25 ± 1.73 mm, and the AT measurement was 8.58 ± 1.06 mm. In group 2, the mean AHD measurement was 10.25 ± 1.4 mm, and the AT measurement was 8.35 ± 0.92 mm. A significant relationship was determined between the RCT and the AHD (P < .001). Also, RCT and AT have a significant relationship (P < .001). The authors determined that the risk of RCT increased 3.45 times when patients with AHD 6-10 mm were compared with patients with AHD >10 mm. In addition, all patients with AHD < 6mm had RCT, and the risk of RCT increased 1.42 times when patients with AT > 8 mm were compared with patients with AT < 8 mm. Acromiohumeral distance and AT measurements are practical, inexpensive, and valuable in evaluating RCT. Decreased AHD and increased AT increase the risk of RCT.

Risk Factors Analysis and Prediction of Rotator Cuff Tears: A Retrospective Study.

Rotator cuff tears (RCTs) are a major cause of shoulder pain and disability, affecting millions worldwide. Understanding the risk factors and developing reliable predictive measures for RCTs is essential for early diagnosis, targeted prevention, and effective treatment of this patient population. This study seeks to enhance our understanding by analyzing the acromiohumeral distance (AHD) and Constant-Murley Score (CMS) in patients with and without RCTs, thereby aiding the development of a predictive model aimed at improving clinical outcomes and prevention strategies in rotator cuff pathology. This retrospective analysis involved 201 patients with shoulder pain, categorized into RCT (n = 72) and no RCTs (N-RCTs, n = 129) groups based on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) findings. We compared demographics, AHD, CMS, and rotator cuff status between groups and utilized logistic regression for identifying RCT predictors, leading to the development of a multifactorial predictive model. The mean AHD was 6.60 ± 1.12 mm. The RCT group showed a marginally higher AHD than the N-RCT group (p = 0.669). CMS scores were significantly lower in the RCT group (p < 0.001). Dominant side involvement (Odds Ratio (OR) 2.244), type III acromion (OR 6.106), and lower CMS (OR 0.938) significantly correlated with RCTs. The predictive model demonstrated an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.701 for RCT diagnosis. Reduced CMS, dominance of the affected side, and type III acromion emerged as key risk factors for RCTs. Our predictive model, incorporating these factors, holds promise for RCT diagnosis, with future studies needed for further validation.

Bridging repair reinforced with artificial ligament as an internal brace for irreparable massive rotator cuff tears

BackgroundThe irreparable massive rotator cuff tear (IMRCT) is challenging to manage. Although various surgical options have been proposed to treat IMRCTs, the optimal surgical technique remains controversial. Arthroscopic bridging patch repair is clinically used for treating IMRCTs，but the healing rate of the patch graft is negatively affected by superior shift of the humeral head. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of artificial ligament as an internal brace (IB) reinforcing fascia lata autograft bridging repair (ABR) in the treatment of IMRCTs. MethodsThe data of 50 patients with IMRCTs who underwent ABR reinforced with artificial ligament as an IB (ABR + IB) (internal brace group) or ABR alone (control group) were retrospectively evaluated preoperatively and at 2-year follow-up. Clinical outcomes were assessed based on the shoulder activity, of which the strength was measured using a 0-10 points manual muscle test scale, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) Score, and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain. Imaging outcomes were evaluated based on acromiohumeral distance (AHD), Hamada grade, Goutallier grade, and the status of fascia lata grafts according to radiographs or magnetic resonance imaging findings. ResultsBoth groups showed significantly better results in shoulder activity, ASES score, VAS, and AHD at 2-year follow-up compared with preoperative levels (P < 0.001). Compared with the control group (n = 24), the internal brace group (n = 26) had better mean AHD (7.0 ± 1.4 mm versus 5.9 ± 1.0 mm, P = 0.002), mean improvement in AHD (3.3 ± 1.5 mm versus 2.0 ± 0.6 mm, P < 0.001), healing rate of autografts (92.3% versus 54.2%, P = 0.002), and improvement rate of Hamada grade (73.1% versus 41.7%, P = 0.025) at 2-year follow-up. No significant differences were found in active elevation, active external rotation, active internal rotation, abduction strength, external rotation strength, internal rotation strength, ASES score, or VAS between the two groups at 2-year follow-up ConclusionBoth the ABR + IB and ABR improved the postoperative short-term clinical and imaging outcomes in managing IMRCTs, the ABR + IB is statistically superior to ABR alone in terms of healing rate of the bridging graft, AHD, and Hamada grade at 2-year follow-up, while further clinical investigations with larger sample size and longer follow-ups are required to validate the clinical significance of this novel technique for IMRCTs.

Postoperative results of arthroscopic superior capsule reconstruction using fascia lata: a retrospective cohort study

Superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) was developed to improve shoulder function and alleviate pain in patients with primary irreparable rotator cuff tears. Although suitable clinical results of SCR have been reported, only a few studies have investigated the clinical outcomes of arthroscopic superior capsule reconstruction (ASCR) using tensor fascia at a minimum follow-up period of 2years after surgery. Among 100 consecutive patients who underwent ASCR since April 2010, this retrospective cohort study included 49 patients with a Hamada classification of ≤3 who were available for at least 2-year follow-up after surgery. The mean follow-up period was 34.5 (24-74) months. We analyzed preoperative and postoperative Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores, University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder scores, preoperative and postoperative active elevation angles, external and internal rotations with the arms in the anatomical position, manual muscle test (MMT) scores, preoperative and postoperative acromiohumeral distance (AHD), and cuff integrity on postoperative magnetic resonance imaging using the Hasegawa classification. We compared 27 pseudoparalyzed (elevation of <90°) shoulders with 22 nonpseudoparalyzed shoulders. We also evaluated the treatment of patients with subscapularis tendon tears and compared the outcomes of patients with good graft repair and those with graft retear. The JOA score, UCLA score, active elevation angle, internal and external rotation angles, and muscle strength (MMT) significantly improved at the time of investigation preoperatively and 2years postoperatively. The mean AHD also improved from 5±2.6mm preoperatively to 9±2.8mm postoperatively. No significant difference in graft tear rate was observed between pseudoparalyzed shoulder and nonpseudoparalyzed shoulder groups. The subscapularis tendon was torn in 26 of 49 (53%) patients, and all patients underwent repair. The graft repair group showed a significant improvement in JOA scores, UCLA shoulder scores, joint range of motion, MMT, and AHD postoperatively, but not in internal rotation strength. In contrast, the graft tear group did not show any significant improvement. All patients could return to work, except for those performing heavy labor. Complications included graft tear in five patients, postoperative infection in two patients, and progressive postoperative arthropathic changes in one patient. Good clinical results of ASCR were obtained using tensor fascia lata at 2years after surgery, with few complications and low graft tear rates.

The effect of biceps tenotomy on superior humeral migration in arthroscopic repaired full-thickness supraspinatus tears

Lesions of the long head of the biceps (LHB) tendon are a prevalent injury that frequently coexists with rotator cuff injuries. This study aimed to assess the effect of supraspinatus (SST) repair with concurrent LHB tenotomy on superior migration of the humeral head. The acromiohumeral distance (AHD) was determined via ultrasound to evaluate the superior migration of the humeral head. The study population was retrospectively recruited from patients who underwent unilateral arthroscopic repair of isolated degenerative full-thickness SST tears between January 2017 and December 2019. Patients were divided into 2 subgroups based on whether they underwent LHB tenotomies during arthroscopy. While 37 patients underwent arthroscopic single-row SST repair, the other 33 patients underwent arthroscopic single-row SST repair with LHB tenotomy. The subject group consisted of people who had undergone arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Contralateral shoulders without rotator cuff injuries were included in the control group. The AHD and SST thicknesses of patients were examined via the ultrasound in both groups and subgroups. The mean age in the SST repair group was 55.52±4.58 years (range, 46-63 years), whereas it was 58.24±3.98 (range, 52-73 years) in the SST repair+LHB tenotomy group. In the SST repair group, 57.6% of patients were female and 42.4% were male, whereas 56.8% and 43.2% were in the SST repair+LHB tenotomy group, respectively. The mean body mass index was 28.06±1.31 kg/m2 (range, 25.7-31.2 kg/m2) in the SST repair group and 28.95±1.79 kg/m2 in the SST repair+LHB tenotomy group. Groups were not different for sex, surgery side, dominant side, tear size, and follow-up time; however, the SST repair+LHB tenotomy group had significantly higher mean age and body mass index than the SST repaired group. The mean AHD value and SST thickness were significantly less in both the rotator cuff repair group and the rotator cuff repair+LHB tenotomy group compared to the healthy shoulder. The mean AHD value was significantly lower in the SST repaired+LHB tenotomy group than in the SST repair group (P=.02). The AHD was narrowed in patients who underwent LHB tenotomy and radiologically demonstrated the depressor effect of the LHB tendon on the humeral head. As a secondary outcome, we demonstrated that regardless of tenotomy, AHD could not be restored in patients who underwent arthroscopic single-row SST repair.

Capsular remnant in the rotator cuff footprint is a novel arthroscopic finding may indicate the etiology of the tear.

The aim of the study was that the capsule remnant is a common indicator of sub-acromial impingement syndrome and bursal side onset rotator cuff tears. Sixty-three patients with capsule remnants in the rotator cuff footprint (Study group) were detected, while the 53 patients did not have any remnant on the tendon footprint (Control group) between 2015 and 2020 were included. Demographic data of patients, such as age, gender, and operated side information were obtained from the archive files. Acromion type, presence of osteophytes in the acromioclavicular joint, Acromiohumeral Distance (AHD), Acromial Index (AI), Critical Shoulder Angle (CSA), and Coracoacromial Ligament (CAL) degeneration values were evaluated from preoperative MRI, radiographic images, and arthroscopic video recordings. Severe stages of CAL degeneration were observed in 82.5% of the patients who had capsule remnant (p: 0.001). While type 2 acromion was found in 61.9%, and also acromioclavicular joint osteophyte was found in 58.7% of the patients in the study group. The mean AHD was 8.22 ± 1.56mm in the study group and 9.2 ± 1.3mm in the control group. The mean CSA was 43.3 ± 4.9 in the study group and 40.8 ± 4.2 in the control group. The AI was measured as 0.8 ± 0.1 in the study group and 0.8 ± 0.01 in the control group. As a result of these measurements, a statistical difference was found between the two groups in terms of type 2 acromion ratio (p < 0.001), presence of osteophytes in the acromioclavicular joint (p < 0.001), mean acromio-humeral distance (p < 0.001), critical shoulder angle (p = 0.004), and acromial index values (p < 0.001). The findings of sub-acromial impingement syndrome were found to be more prominent in patients with full-thickness degenerative tear and findings of capsular remnant in the footprint. If the presence of the current finding is detected during glenohumeral arthroscopy, sub-acromial impingement syndrome should be examined in more detail to reveal the underlying cause and prevent a recurrence.

Acromiohumeral distance changes with posture in healthy adults and patients while wearing a shoulder abduction brace.

[Purpose] To examine the humeral head positions while wearing an abduction brace in the sitting and supine positions in healthy adults and patients who have been operated on for shoulder joint diseases. [Participants and Methods] Thirty participants were included in the study, of which 15 were healthy adults (without any orthopedic diseases) and 15 had shoulder diseases (post-arthroscopic repair of a rotator cuff tear). The acromion and humeral head were observed on ultrasound. The acromiohumeral distance was measured once in two different positions while wearing the brace: edge sitting and supine. [Results] The mean acromiohumeral distance in the healthy group was 7.9 ± 1.1 mm while sitting and 7.2 ± 1.0 mm in the supine position. In the disease group it was 7.6 ± 0.9 mm while sitting and 6.3 ± 1.1 mm in the supine position. Multiple logical regression revealed that the acromiohumeral distance was not affected by the participant's age, height, or weight. [Conclusion] The acromiohumeral distance was significantly reduced in the supine position despite the use of an abduction brace. Therefore, patients must use a pillow/towel to support the shoulder joint to prevent unnecessary stress while the cuff tendons are healing.

Clinical application of acromion radiological classification in diagnosis and treatment of rotator cuff injury

To develop a new classification of acromion based on the subacromial impingement theory and the Rockwood tilt view. And explore the application value of the new classification in the diagnosis and treatment of rotator cuff tear. The clinical data of 101 patients underwent shoulder arthroscopic surgery for impingement syndrome or rotator cuff tear from January to December 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 34 males and 67 females, aged from 34 to 76 years with an average of (56.31±9.63) years old, course of disease from 2 to 12 months with average of 6 months. Preoperative radiographs of the routine anteroposterior view, Rockwood tilt view and the supraspinatus outlet view were obtained. Based on the subacromial impingement theory and Rockwood radiographs, the morphology of the acromion can be divided into three types:typeⅠ(flat type), typeⅡ(bump type), and type Ⅲ (impingement type). Two observers classified 101 shoulder Rockwood radiographs according to the new classification method and the supraspinatus Outlet radiographs according to the traditional acromial morphological classification method. Supraspinatus tendon injuries were classified into no tear, partial-thickness tear, and full-thickness tear according to the arthroscopic findings. Concordance test (Kappa value) between the inter-observer and intra-observer was carried out for the new classification method and the traditional classification method respectively. The rank sum test was used to compare the mean acromiohumeral distance(AHD) of the three acromion forms in the new acromion classification method. Spearman rank correlation test and Gamma method were used to analyze the correlation between the new acromion classification method and the degree of supraspinatus tendon tear. The inter-observer consistency analysis of the new classification system was significantly better than that of the traditional classification (0.827 vs 0.278), the intra-observer consistency analysis of the new classification system were also significantly better than that of the traditional classification (0.921 vs 0.448, 0.890 vs 0.539). There was no statistical significance in the AHD among three types of the new classification(H=2.186, P>0.05). In all 101 patients, the highest proportion of impingement type acromion was 45.5% (46 cases), followed by bump type acromion was 36.6% (37 cases), and flat type acromion was 17.8% (18 cases). The incidence of supraspinatus tendon tear in the patients with impingement type acromion was significantly higher than that of the other two types of acromion, there was a spearman rank correlation between the new acromion type and the degree of the supraspinatus tendon tear(rs=0.719, P<0.001). Rockwood radiographs of the shoulder can well display the anterolateral osteophytes of the acromion. The new acromion classification method based on Rockwood radiographs has high reliability and good reproducibility, in which impingement type of acromion is closely related to supraspinatus tendon tear. Compared with the traditional classification and AHD, the new classification method has more diagnostic value than for rotator cuff injury.

Arthroscopic Superior Capsule Reconstruction With Fascia Lata Autograft And In-Situ Biceps Tendon Augmentation: Feasible Outcomes After Minimum Two-Year Follow-Up

PurposeTo investigate the preliminary functional and radiographic outcomes after arthroscopic superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) with long head of biceps tendon (LHBT) augmentation for irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCTs).MethodsRetrospective review of medical records was conducted in patients receiving unilateral SCR with fascia lata autograft and LHBT augmentation for irreparable RCTs between January 2016 and March 2019. LHBT was adopted when the integrity was intact or partial tear was less than 50% in width. We used all-suture anchors for folded graft patch fixation with 2 in supraglenoid fossa and another 2 plus two knotless anchors via compression suture-bridging technique in greater tuberosity. Reinforced fixation with side-to-side suture was added between infraspinatus tendon and graft patch, and between proximal LHBT and graft to improve force coupling. Clinical and radiographic outcomes including magnetic resonance imaging analysis at 2-year follow-up were investigated and compared with preoperative status.ResultsConsecutive 18 patients (mean age, 66.1 years) were included. Mean active forward elevation significantly improved from 75.6⁰ to 157.2⁰ (P < .0001), and external rotation from 33.3⁰ to 53.3⁰ (P < .01). Mean acromiohumeral distance increased from 6.1 ± 2.5 mm to 8.5 ± 2.1 mm (P < .001). The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score improved from 33.8 ± 5.6 to 93.4 ± 5.92 points (P < .00001). Comparable outcomes were found in patients with intact LHBT and those with partial tear. Nine patients had partial tear of graft patch (5, tuberosity side; 4 posterior glenoid); 2 patients had complete tear (tuberosity side) showing inferior outcomes.ConclusionsThe index surgery restored superior glenohumeral stability and function of the shoulder with irreparable RCTs. Despite high incidence of partial graft tear, favorable outcomes suggest SCR with biceps tendon augmentation is a feasible treatment for irreparable RCTs.Level of EvidenceLevel IV, therapeutic case series.

Poor Results After Arthroscopic Treatment of Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears Using a Subacromial Balloon Spacer.

Arthroscopic balloon spacer arthroplasty (BSA) is a relatively recent procedure for patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears, conceived to prevent degenerative joint changes and relieve subacromial pain. This is a retrospective case series of 16 consecutive patients treated with BSA and followed up for a minimum 12 months. Besides BSA, partial tendon repair was done whenever possible. Radiographical parameters such as acromiohumeral distance and Hamada stage were measured preoperatively and postoperatively. Range of motion, functional results (Constant score; Simple Shoulder Test; American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score; and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score), health-related quality of life results with the EuroQol Five Dimensions tool, complications, and patient satisfaction were also analyzed. The mean age was 64 ± 10.3 years, and the male/female ratio was 6/10. Partial repair was achieved in five patients (31.2%) and did not influence functional or health-related quality of life results ( P = 0.11). The mean acromiohumeral distance and Hamada stage worsened from preoperative measures (3.7 ± 2.0 mm and 2.3 ± 1.1) to final follow-up measures (3.1 ± 2.4 mm and 3.1 ± 1.3). Shoulder abduction increased by 7.8° ± 26.8° and forward flexion decreased by 25.5° ± 32.4° after surgery. The functional results at the final follow-up were Constant 49.5 ± 18.0; American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons 60.2 ± 27.2; Simple Shoulder Test 8.5 ± 4.6; and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand 32.7 ± 12.1. The mean index value for the EuroQol Five Dimensions was 0.79, and perceived quality of life was 85.6 ± 15.4 of 100 points. 62.5% of the patients (10) were satisfied with surgery. The complication rate was 13% (2), accounting for one deep infection and one balloon migration. Theoretical benefits of BSA for delaying superior humeral head translation and arthropathic changes could not be demonstrated in our series. Its functional results and satisfaction rates are low, but self-reported quality of life after surgery does not seem impaired. Complications do not occur frequently but require reintervention and endanger joint viability. Level IV (case series).

Évaluation du volume de l’espace sous-acromial en cas de conflit

IntroductionShoulder impingement syndrome is evaluated radiologically with two-dimensional measurement parameters. None of these measurement parameters accurately reflect the three-dimensional geometry. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the volumetric status of the subacromial space in patients with shoulder impingement syndrome and to investigate its relationship with two-dimensional parameters. HypothesisThe primary hypothesis of this study is that subacromial volume is reduced in patients with impingement syndrome. The second hypothesis is that the sagittal plane morphology of the acromion reflects the subacromial volume better than the coronal plane morphology. Patients and methodsThis retrospective study consisted of a total of 52 participants: 26 patients with impingement syndrome and 26 controls. Volumetric measurements were performed using magnetic resonance imaging. The relationship between humerus and acromion was evaluated by acromiohumeral distance. The sagittal plane morphology of the acromion was evaluated with an objective acromial angle, while the coronal plane morphology was evaluated with a lateral acromial angle. The radiological parameters between groups were compared. ResultsThe mean subacromial volume was significantly smaller in the impingement group compared to the control group (p=0.01). The subacromial volume had a negative correlation with the objective acromial angle (R=−0.46; p=0.01). The mean tendon volume was significantly higher in the impingement group (p<0.001). The mean acromiohumeral distance in the impingement group (6.8mm±1.0mm) was calculated to be significantly lower than the control group (10.1mm±1.5mm) (p<0.001). There was a positive moderate correlation between subacromial volume and acromiohumeral distance (R=0.61; p=0.01). DiscussionThis is the first study to demonstrate a reduction in subacromial volume in patients with impingement syndrome. The sagittal plane morphology of the acromion, rather than the coronal plane, appears to be more closely related to the subacromial volume. Level of evidenceIII; case-control study.

Correlation of acromial shape and rotator cuff tears using magnetic resonance imaging

We investigated the relationship between four acromial shapes by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and the characteristics and occurrence of rotator cuff tears (RCTs). This retrospective study included 621 patients aged 18-90 years who underwent shoulder imaging in the Turgut Ozal University, Training and Research Hospital, Department of Radiology from April 2022 to May 2022. The study reviewed a total of 621 patients, including 377 (60.7%) female, and 244 (39.3%) male patients. Of the total 621 MRI imagines of the patients, 344 (55.4%) were MRIs of the right shoulder, and 277 (44.6%) were MRIs of the left shoulder. No tears were detected in 20.7% of them, and various grades of tears were detected in 79.3% of them. Of the total, 43% had the full thickness and complete tears, and 36.3% had partial tears. A correlation was found between the RCTs and females (p&lt;0.001). No statistically significant relationship was found for left or right shoulder (p&lt;0.065) and acromion type and tear (p=0.465). A correlation was found between the mean acromio-humeral distance of acromion type I, II, and III (mean of three acromion types) and type IV (p&lt;0.001). There were statistical differences between impingement and acromion hypertrophy (ACH) (p&lt;0.001), between tear and impingement (p&lt;0.001), and between tear and ACH (p&lt;0.001). There was no relationship between acromial shape and gender. However, from the point of view of acromial shape, supraspinatus injury and gender were significantly related, namely; right-sided partial tear injuries are more common in females ≥50 years of age with type II acromion shape than with other RCTs.

Added value of combined acromiohumeral distance and critical shoulder angle measurements on conventional radiographs for the prediction of rotator cuff pathology

PurposeTo investigate the role of acromiohumeral distance (AHD) and critical shoulder angle (CSA) measurements from conventional radiographs (CR) in isolation and combined (prognostic index PIAHD-CSA) as predictors of full thickness rotator cuff tendon tears (RCT) and critical fatty degeneration (CFD; i.e. as much fat as muscle). MethodIn this retrospective study AHD and CSA were measured in 127 CR. MR arthrograms served as reference standard and were screened for RCT and CFD. Statistical analysis for inter-reader agreement, Spearman’s rank correlation, linear stepwise regression and logistic regression for AHD and CSA with ROC analyses including PIAHD-CSA were performed. ResultsIn 90 subjects (17 females, mean age 36.1 ± 14.1) no RCT were found on MR imaging and served as control group. In 37 patients (13 females, mean age 58.7 ± 13.2) ≥ one RCT was found. Inter-reader agreements rated between к = 0.42–0.82 for categorical and 0.91–0.96 for continuous variables. No significant correlation of AHD and CSA with either age or sex was seen (p = 0.28 and p = 0.74, respectively). Case group had significantly smaller mean AHD (8.7 ± 3.2 vs. 10.8 ± 2.2 mm; p < 0.001) and larger mean CSA (36.5 ± 4.5° vs. 33.1 ± 4.0°; p < 0.001). PIAHD-CSA increased diagnostic performance for prediction of RCT and CFD (AUC = 0.78 and 0.71), compared to isolated AHD (0.74 and 0.71) and CSA (0.71 and 0.66). ConclusionsAHD and CSA do not depend on age or sex but differ significantly between healthy and pathologic rotator cuffs. A decreased AHD is most influenced by infraspinatus muscle atrophy and fatty degeneration. Combined PIAHD-CSA increases diagnostic performance for predicting RCT and CFD.

Volumetric evaluation of the subacromial space in shoulder impingement syndrome

IntroductionShoulder impingement syndrome is evaluated radiologically with two-dimensional measurement parameters. None of these measurement parameters accurately reflect the three-dimensional geometry. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the volumetric status of the subacromial space in patients with shoulder impingement syndrome and to investigate its relationship with two-dimensional parameters. HypothesisThe primary hypothesis of this study is that subacromial volume is reduced in patients with impingement syndrome. The second hypothesis is that the sagittal plane morphology of the acromion reflects the subacromial volume better than the coronal plane morphology. Patients and methodsThis retrospective study consisted of a total of 52 participants: 26 patients with impingement syndrome and 26 controls. Volumetric measurements were performed with using magnetic resonance imaging. The relationship between humerus and acromion was evaluated by acromiohumeral distance. The sagittal plane morphology of the acromion was evaluated with an objective acromial angle, while the coronal plane morphology was evaluated with a lateral acromial angle. The radiological parameters between groups were compared. ResultsThe mean subacromial volume was significantly smaller in the impingement group compared to the control group (p=0.01). The subacromial volume had a negative correlation with the objective acromial angle (R=−0.46; p=0.01) The mean tendon volume was significantly higher in the impingement group (p<0.001). The mean acromiohumeral distance in the impingement group (6.8mm±1.0mm), was calculated to be significantly lower than the control group (10.1mm±1.5mm) (p<0.001). There was a positive moderate correlation between subacromial volume and acromiohumeral distance (R=0.61; p=0.01). DiscussionThis is the first study to demonstrate a reduction in subacromial volume in patients with impingement syndrome. The sagittal plane morphology of the acromion, rather than the coronal plane, appears to be more closely related to the subacromial volume. Level of evidenceIII; case-control study.

Evaluation of bilateral acromiohumeral distance on magnetic resonance imaging and radiography in patients with unilateral rotator cuff tears.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the difference in the acromiohumeral distance (AHD) between the shoulders with full-thickness rotator cuff tear and contralateral healthy shoulders of the same patients on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and radiograph. We included 49 patients with unilateral full-thickness rotator cuff tears. The mean age of the patients (29 women and 20 men) was 54.57 ± 7.10years. The shoulders were divided into those with a full-thickness rotator cuff tear and healthy shoulders. The mean AHDs on radiograph and MRI were calculated by two radiologists experienced in the musculoskeletal system. Shoulders with rotator cuff tears on coronal plane and sagittal MRI were divided into 3 (Patte I, II, III) and 4 subgroups (S: superior, AS: anterosuperior, PS: posterosuperior, APS: anteroposterosuperior), respectively. The relationship between the groups and the subgroups was statistically investigated. The mean AHDs on radiograph were 6.93 and 9.11mm and on MRI were 5.94 and 7.46mm in the patient and control groups, respectively. The mean AHDs were 6.47, 6.03, and 4.95mm in Patte I, II, and III, respectively. The difference between the subgroups was statistically significant. According to the sagittal plane topography, the mean AHDs (mm) were 6.39, 6.44, 5.8, and 4.6mm in the superiorly, anterosuperiorly, posterosuperiorly, and anteroposterosuperiorly localized lesions, respectively. The relationship between S and AS was not statistically significant, and those between S and PS, AS and PS, S and APS, and PS and APS were significant. In patients with unilateral full-thickness rotator cuff tear, AHD narrowing was observed on the törnekler side after evaluating the bilateral acromiohumeral distance on MRI and radiograph. AHD was significantly reduced by increasing the degree of supraspinatus tendon retraction in the coronal plane MRI and by the posterosuperior and anteroposterosuperior location of the rotator cuff tear in the sagittal plane MRI.

Increased acromiohumeral distance in a double-row arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery compared to a single-row surgery after 12 months

BackgroundArthroscopic rotator cuff surgery is an effective treatment for rotator cuff tears with the considered use of double-row repair techniques becoming popular in the last decade. We aim to compare the effects of double- and single-row arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs (ARCR) on repair integrity (RI) and acromiohumeral distance (AHD).MethodsIn this observational study, we retrospectively identified 98 patients with degenerative rotator cuff tear treated with arthroscopic rotator cuff repair between 2016 and 2019. We excluded 22 patients with partial-thickness tears, 15 with associated subscapularis or SLAP tears, 13 with massive tears, and 5 patients lost to follow-up; we included 43 patients who had ARCR for full-thickness cuff tear and clinical, radiologic follow-up. Of these 43 patients, 23 are grouped as double-row repair group (DRG) and 20 as single-row repair group (SRG). A minimum of 12 months after the surgery, bilateral shoulder MRIs were obtained. Contralateral shoulders without asymptomatic rotator cuff tears served as a control group (CG). The operating surgeon and two other surgeons experienced in arthroscopy blindly measured the AHD and determined the RI at the control MRIs in all groups. Functional assessments relied on UCLA and qDASH Scores.ResultsThe mean age was 57.89 (45–78) years, and the mean follow-up time was 28,65 (21–43) months. The mean AHD of the CG was 9.7 ± 0.96 mm, the preoperative AHD of DRG was 8.62 ± 1.45 mm, and SRG was 9.71 ± 0.95 mm. The postoperative mean AHD of DRG 9.61 ± 1.83 mm and SRG was 10.21 ± 1.97 mm. AHD differences between the preoperative and postoperative groups were significant (P=0.009). The increase of the AHD in the double-row group was significantly higher than the single-row group (P=0.004). There was a high correlation between the RI and DASH scores (P=0.005). RI did not correlate with the repair method (P=0.580).ConclusionAlthough double-row repairs can maintain greater AHD than single-row repairs in the clinical setting, this difference did not affect functional results. Regardless of the surgical intervention, functional results are favourable if RI is achieved.Level of evidenceLevel III, Retrospective Cohort Study

Subscapularis re-tears associated with preoperative advanced fatty infiltration and greater subscapularis involvement, leading to inferior functional outcomes and decreased acromiohumeral distance.

This study aimed to investigate the influence of repaired subscapularis integrity on midterm results for anterosuperior massive rotator cuff tears (MRCTs) treated with partial rotator cuff repair. This study included 57 patients who underwent arthroscopic partial repair for an anterosuperior MRCT. They were assigned to the healed subscapularis group (Group H 37 patients) or subscapularis re-tear group (Group R 20 patients). Preoperative and postoperative functional scores and active ranges of motion (ROMs) were assessed. Preoperative and 6-month follow-up magnetic resonance arthrography (MRA)/computed tomography arthrography (CTA) images were compared between groups. At the final follow-up, mean functional shoulder scores including ROMs improved significantly in both groups compared to preoperative values (p < 0.001), except for forward flexion and internal rotation in Group R. All final functional values and ROMs (excluding external rotation) were better in Group H than in Group R (p < 0.001). Preoperative stage of fatty infiltration in the subscapularis muscle was significantly worse in Group R (p < 0.001). On follow-up MRA/CTA, the immediate residual defect after partial repair increased in 81% (30/37; mean, 17.8mm) of patients in Group H and 100% (mean 24.6mm) in Group R (p < 0.001). At final follow-up, mean acromiohumeral distance significantly decreased from 8.2 to 6.0mm in Group H (p < 0.001) and from 8.3 to 4.9mm in Group R (p < 0.001). There was a significant difference in final acromiohumeral distance between groups (p < 0.001). After a minimum 5-year follow-up after arthroscopic partial repair of anterosuperior MRCT, subscapularis re-tear was identified in 35% of patients (20/57) on early postoperative follow-up MRA/CTA. The subscapularis re-tear group exhibited more preoperative advanced fatty infiltration and greater extents of subscapularis involvement, which led to statistically inferior functional outcomes and decreased acromiohumeral distance at final follow-up. Nonetheless, in terms of a minimal clinically important difference, substantial clinical benefit, and patient-acceptable symptomatic state for clinical significance, there were no significant differences between the groups. III.

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.