Trans-tendon arthroscopic repair for partial-thickness articular side tears of the rotator cuff

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to describe a modified trans-tendon method of repairing partial articular surface lesions, which restored the footprint of the rotator cuff anatomically.MethodsThe 24 consecutive patients with modified trans-tendon method which allowed a wider pressurized contact area by use of additional knotless anchor were included in this study. All patients were evaluated with ASES score and visual analog scale (VAS) preoperatively, postoperative 3 and 12 months. The strength was measured using Isobex digital strength analyzer preoperatively and postoperative 12 months.ResultsThe ASES scores significantly improved from preoperative 38 ± 13 to 63 ± 5 at 3 months, and 89 ± 5 at 12 months postoperatively. The VAS scores also significantly improved from preoperative 6.6 ± 1.1 to 2 ± 0.7 at 3 months, 0.6 ± 0.7 at 12 months. The strengths significantly increased postoperatively, and there were no significant differences between affected and unaffected shoulders at 12 months postoperatively (P > 0.05). The 22 of 24 patients were either satisfied or very satisfied with postoperative result at 12 months postoperatively.ConclusionThis arthroscopic-modified trans-tendon suture bridge technique for partial-thickness articular side tears of the rotator cuff has shown excellent functional results and very high satisfaction rate of patient during the 12-month follow-up period.Level of evidenceEvidence therapeutic study, Level IV.