Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair

Although most subacromial decompressions are performed arthroscopically, rotator cuff repair is still performed using an open or mini-open procedure. Arthroscopic techniques have improved in however, so that rotator cuff repair can also be performed arthroscopically. The potential complications of open repair are thus reduced and the superior functional results of cuff repair in comparison to debridement alone are maintained. The proposed advantages of the arthroscopic method are that it provides access to the glenohumeral joint for inspection and treatment of intra-articular lesions. The skin incisions are smaller, detachment of the deltoid muscle is not necessary,and there is less soft tissue dissection. By inspecting the bursal and articular side of the ruptured cuff, it is possible to measure the size of the tear and assess the quality of the tendon and whether it can be repaired. We present our arthroscopic technique of rotator cuff repair using bioabsorbable suture anchors and demonstrate our 1- to 6-years results with various suture anchors.