Subscapularis tears

Abstract

The subscapularis is the largest of the rotator cuff tendons and provides over 50 % of the rotator cuff force. Despite its conspicuous position in the anterior aspect of the glenohumeral joint, subscapularis tendon tears are likely both underreported and underappreciated. This is largely related to the difficulty in evaluating the subscapularis tendon both clinically and surgically (whether open or arthroscopic). The incidence of subscapularis tears, therefore, has varied in the literature but is estimated between 10 and 30 % of arthroscopic shoulder procedures. In general, tears of the subscapularis are less common than tears of the supraspinatus and partial tears are more common than complete tears. While subscapularis tears do occur in isolation, they more commonly occur in combination with other rotator cuff tears.