Retracted subscapularis tears

Abstract

Although the subscapularis has historically received less attention than posterosuperior rotator cuff tears, repair of a torn subscapularis tendon is critically important to restoring anatomy and achieving the best functional outcome possible. Most retracted subscapularis tears are associated with tears of the posterosuperior rotator cuff. Because of the connection with the anterior supraspinatus, repair of the subscapularis component as a first step in approaching the torn rotator cuff facilitates repair of the remainder of the cuff. A systematic approach will allow an arthroscopic repair of essentially all subscapularis tears, including full-thickness retracted tears.