Does Arthroscopic Suture-Spanning Augmentation of Single-Row Repair Reduce the Retear Rate of Massive Rotator Cuff Tear?

Abstract

Background: Several surgical techniques have been proposed for massive rotator cuff tears (MRCTs), but the failure rates remain high. The suture-spanning augmentation technique of single-row (SSA-SR) repair was shown to reduce failure rates in cadaveric studies, but the outcome in vivo remains unclear. Purpose: To determine if adding spanning sutures to SR repair during MRCT repairs can improve functional outcome and reduce failure rates. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: The study included 71 patients with a diagnosed MRCT. The study group (n = 35) received SSA-SR repair. The control (n = 36) received SR repair. The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Constant score, UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) score, and visual analog scale for pain were assessed preoperatively and 24 months postoperatively. Magnetic resonance imaging was arranged at 6 months postoperatively to evaluate the rotator cuff. Results: At 6 months postoperatively, the overall retear rate was 31.0%. The retear rate was lower in the SSA-SR group (14.3%) than in the SR group (47.2%, P = .002). At 24 months, the SSA-SR group had markedly improved ASES, Constant, and UCLA scores in comparison with the SR group ( P < .05). Within both groups, all scores had significant improvement as compared with the preoperative status ( P < .05). Conclusion: The SSA-SR repair technique showed improved functional and radiologic results. Based on the superior postoperative outcome of this technique, the SSA-SR repair technique can be a potential treatment option for MRCT repair. Registration: NCT03609164 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).