Results of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair

Abstract

Background: Rotator cuff disease is one of the most common condition afflicting shoulder joint. It includes spectrum from minimal bursal/articular inflammation of tendons to severe degenerative cuff tear/arthropathy. With advent in arthroscopic techniques, most RC tears are nowadays treated arthroscopically than open, miniopen or nonoperative management. The purpose of this prospective study is to assess results of arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff tear using UCLA (University of California at Los Angeles) and ASES (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons) shoulder scoring systems. Methods: 25 patients operated arthroscopically by single senior arthroscopic surgeon at Civil hospital, Ahmedabad, over a period of 30 months (Dec 2012 to June 2015) were followed for minimum of 12 months duration and included in study. Outcome measures used are preoperative and postoperative UCLA and ASES scores. A proforma was prepared to collect and analyse data using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Results: In our study, we have measured UCLA and ASES scores over 12 months period. Our study shows improved functional outcome from UCLApresentation-12.2 and ASESpresentation-30.8 to UCLA12 months-30.64 and ASES12 months-77.43. Evident from our study, there is no significant gender difference in terms of incidence and postoperative functional outcome. Maximum incidence is seen in age group-41-50 years with etiological inclination towards precedent trauma. Conclusion: Arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff tear offers excellent functional outcome; with minimal morbidity. Improvement in pain, range of motion and strength of cuff tendons can be achieved only by meticulous repair techniques, adequate subacromial decompression, and strict rehabilitation programme.