Search

Tears of the rotator cuff are a frequent pathology, but the best surgical procedure remains unclear. The arthroscopic approach has become the gold standard, but there are many different suture configurations that can be used. We describe an all-suture repair system with which the anatomical reduction of the rotator cuff is achieved performing traction from the anchor of the lateral row to subsequently performing a suture bridge suture from the medial row. The major advantage of this technique is that it creates compression forces and minimizing tensioning of the tissue.

The shoulder is the most mobile and least stable joint of the human body. The bony anatomy determines a very limited stability, which has to be maintained by the surrounding soft tissues that act as static stabilizers. In addition, dynamic stability is provided by the musculotendinous units of the rotator cuff and scapulothoracic joint.

Rotator cuff re-tears are true challenges for shoulder surgeons. Several treatment options exist and its choice should be individualized depending on patient characteristics. It is crucial to identify the reason why the cuff re-tears. When there is no intense atrophy or fatty degeneration and exists a reasonable potential of healing of the tendon, a revision repair can be attempted. It is important to optimize the surgical technique to obtain a stable, tension-free repair in order to favor good outcomes.