Surgical Treatment Outcomes for Everted Bursal Flap of Delaminated Supraspinatus Tear

Abstract

Background: Although everted bursal flaps of delaminated tears have been reported, few studies have reported radiologic images, arthroscopic findings, and clinical results after repair. Purpose: To compare the repair outcomes of everted delaminated tears with those of classic delaminated supraspinatus tears. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Among 153 patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair for a delaminated supraspinatus tear, everted bursal flap tears were observed in 24 patients upon arthroscopy (group A). Another 24 patients with classic delaminated supraspinatus tears, matched for age and sex, were selected for group B. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasonography were performed preoperatively and postoperatively. Patients were evaluated using a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain as well as functional scores (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons [ASES] score, Constant score, and University of California Los Angeles shoulder score). Scores were compared preoperatively and at final follow-up (mean follow-up, 32 months). Results: Patients in both groups A and B reported improved VAS and functional scores at the final follow-up. In group A, preoperative VAS scores were higher and functional scores were poorer than in group B. Subacromial effusions with tendon swelling on preoperative MRI were more common in group A. During follow-up ultrasonography, group A patients exhibited persistent subacromial effusion. However, VAS scores at final follow-up were significantly better in group A (0.4 ± 0.7) than in group B (1.6 ± 1.4) (P