Arthroscopic Repair of Rotator Cuff Tears Using Absorbable Anchors with a Single-Row Technique

Abstract

Purpose. To review outcomes of arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff tears using absorbable anchors with a single-row technique. Methods. 66 patients underwent arthroscopic repair for rotator cuff tears using absorbable anchors with a single-row technique. 51 of them aged 37 to 73 (mean, 57) years had been followed up for a mean of 29 (range, 20–37) months. The extent of the tear was classified as large, medium or small. Functional outcome was assessed using the Constant score. Constant scores and re-tear rates in 3 patient groups (classified by patient age and tear size) were compared. Results. Among the 66 patients, there were 24 large, 29 medium and 13 small cuff tears, and a total of 48, 37, and 18 anchors were used, respectively. Among the 51 patients, the median Constant score improved significantly after arthroscopy (30 vs. 73, p60 years than in those aged 50 to 59 years and <50 years (4/15 vs. 1/22 vs. 1/14), and more often in patients with large tears than in those with medium and small tears (4/24 vs. 2/29 vs. 0/13). Conclusion. Arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff tears using absorbable anchors with a single-row technique is reliable in patients aged <60 years with small or medium tears.