An epidemiological study of rotator cuff pathology using The Health Improvement Network database

Abstract

Little is known about the incidence of rotator cuff pathology or its demographic associations in the general population. We undertook a large epidemiological study of rotator cuff pathology in the United Kingdom using The Health Improvement Network (THIN) database. The incidence of rotator cuff pathology was 87 per 100,000 person-years. It was more common in women than in men (90 cases per 100,000 person-years in women and 83 per 100,000 person-years in men; p < 0.001). The highest incidence of 198 per 100,000 person-years was found in those aged between 55 and 59 years. The regional distribution of incidence demonstrated an even spread across 13 UK health authorities except Wales, where the incidence was significantly higher (122 per 100,000 person-years; p < 0.001). The lowest socioeconomic group had the highest incidence (98 per 100,000 person-years). The incidence has risen fourfold since 1987 and as of 2006 shows no signs of plateauing. This study represents the largest general population study of rotator cuff pathology reported to date. The results obtained provide an enhanced appreciation of the epidemiology of rotator cuff pathology and may help to direct future upper limb orthopaedic services.

Males have Inferior Achilles Tendon Material Properties Compared to Females in a Rodent Model

“…While these findings suggest a critical role for sex hormones in modulating ACL injury risk, the direct effect of estrogen treatment on matrix production 24 and mechanical properties 26, 30 remains controversial. Similarly, rotator cuff pathology is more common in women than men, with 90 cases per 100,000 person-years in women and 83 per 100,000 person-years in men 27 . These data, taken together with the current work, suggest that the role of sex hormones in tendon/ligament physiology and injury risk may be tissue-specific.…”

All-Suture Transosseous Repair for Rotator Cuff Tear Fixation Using Medial Calcar Fixation

“…2 In these patients, anchor fixation can be a concern in the relatively osteoporotic bone of the greater tuberosity. Our all-transosseous technique improves this potential weakness of the anchor fixation.…”

“…The highest incidence of this pathology is seen in women and in the age group 55 to 59 years. 1,2 Surgical management of rotator cuff tears has shown predictable pain relief and functional improvement, with good overall patient satisfaction. 3 Over the past 20 years, multiple techniques have been described for repairing rotator cuff tendons back to their insertion on the proximal humerus with the aim of restoring them to the anatomic footprint.…”

Nonoperative Management of Common Shoulder Conditions

“…According to a recent epidemiologic study, the incidence of rotator cuff pathology is 87/100,000 person-years, with an increased prevalence in women compared to men (90 vs 83/100,000 person-years) [21]. The highest incidence of rotator cuff disorders occurs between the ages of 55-59, and is more prevalent in lower socioeconomic groups [21]. Athletes who perform sports with overhead activity, such as swimming, tennis, pitching, lifting, volleyball, and gymnastics are at increased risk as well [12].…”