Partial-thickness rotator cuff tears

Abstract

Rotator cuff repair is one of the most common procedures performed in orthopedic surgery. The goal of repair is to restore normal rotator cuff kinematics in an effort to improve glenohumeral function and reduce pain. Recent data has revealed that healing and anatomic integrity of the rotator cuff repair site correlates with improved outcomes, particularly with regard to strength and functional recovery. Rotator cuff pathology exists on a wide spectrum that ranges from cuff tendon edema and inflammation to partial- and full-thickness tears of one or more of the cuff tendons. Recent advances in diagnostic imaging modalities have led to an increase in clinician recognition of partial-thickness rotator cuff tears. As elegantly described by Clark and Harryman (J Bone Joint Surg 74A:713–725, 1992), the anatomy of the rotator cuff insertion onto the humerus is complex as the tendons, articular capsule, coracohumeral ligament (CHL), and glenohumeral ligament complex essentially blend to form a confluent, layered sheet prior to insertion onto the tuberosities.