Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics | Vol 5 | Issue 2 |  July-Dec 2020 | page:30-34 | Stefania Kokkineli, Emmanouil Brilakis, Emmanouil Antonogiannakis

Author: Stefania Kokkineli [1], Emmanouil Brilakis [1], Emmanouil Antonogiannakis [1]

[1] Department of Orthopaedic, HYGEIA Hospital. MD. Erythrou Stavrou 4, Marousi 15123

Address of Correspondence
Dr. Stefania Kokkineli,
Department of Orthopaedic, HYGEIA Hospital. Athens, Greece
Address: Erythrou Stavrou 4, Marousi 15123. Greece
E-mail: stephaniekokkineli@gmail.com

Abstract

Partial- thickness rotator cuff tears are the most common cause of shoulder pain in adults and have been classified into subtypes according to location and depth. The frequency rate and tear size progression increase with age, tobacco use and medical comorbidities. Partial tears are divided into tears of acute, chronic or acute-on-chronic onset. Surgical treatment is indicated in symptomatic patients with persistent pain after failed conservative treatment of at least 3 months, mainly with tears that exceed 50% of the tendon thickness. Arthroscopic repair techniques include in situ and tear completion repair. Authors’ preferred technique for in situ repair is described followed by the postoperative rehabilitation protocol. The surgical techniques described have various advantages and disadvantages with regard to intra- operative complications, clinical outcomes, recovery time and re-tear rates which make it difficult to decide on which technique to use. The option is a matter of surgical indications, philosophy and skills.
Keywords: Partial-thickness rotator cuff tears, transtendon repair, in-situ repair, shoulder, arthroscopy

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