The outcomes of arthroscopic suture bridge technique for treatment of full thickness rotator cuff tear

Objective To discuss and evaluate the arthroscopic suture bridge technique for treatment of full thickness rotator cuff tear.Methods Between January 2009 and June 2010,22 cases of full-thickness rotator cuff tears were treated by arthroscopic suture bridge technique,and the results were analyzed statistically.Results All the patients were reviewed and the average follow-up period was 25.8 months (range,18 to 35 months).Average tear measured (3.60± 0.25) cm and no anchor was loosened.At the last follow-up,the range of active forward flexion,abduction,external rotation at the side improved (P ＜ 0.001) and muscle strength of forward flexion,external rotation at the side also improved obviously (P ＜ 0.05) when compared to the pre-operative evaluations.The average American shoulder and elbow surgeons (ASES) score improved from 66.5 to 90.6 (P ＜ 0.001).The average Constant score improved from 64.4 to 93.8 (P ＜ 0.001).All the patients were satisfied with the operations.Conclusion The arthroscopic suture bridge technique was successful for treatment of full thickness rotator cuff tear. Key words: Arthroscopes; Full thickness; Rotator cuff tear; Suture bridge technique