Single-Incision Rotator Cuff Repair With a Needle Arthroscope

Abstract

Arthroscopy frequently has been used to treat a variety of shoulder conditions, including rotator cuff tears. Arthroscopic techniques, when compared with open techniques, are associated with less morbidity, leading to lower complication rates, easier recovery, and improved outcomes. As technology improves, we continue to develop lessinvasive surgical techniques to treat rotator cuff pathology. With the development of the NanoScope (Arthrex, Naples, FL), we have the opportunity to view through a small cannula without making a standard viewing portal. This technique combines this small viewing portal with standard repair techniques through only a single lateral incision to provide a lessinvasive rotator cuff repair technique.

Rotator Cuff Repair Using a Needle Arthroscope Through a Dual-Lumen Flexible Cannula

“…If other procedures such as subscapularis repair, arthroscopic biceps tenodesis, or distal clavicle resection are performed during the shoulder surgery, a standard 30-degree arthroscope may be needed. 4 The NanoScope may still be useful in these situations, however, as a hybrid dual-scope visualization technique with the NanoScope in the Passport laterally and standard scope posteriorly may aid in visualization of larger rotator cuff tears.…”

“…A surgical technique for repairing the rotator cuff with the NanoScope (Arthrex) and a single incision have previously been described by Lavender et al. 4 Using the NanoScope allows for smaller incisions, less fluid use and swelling, and in theory less pain in the early postoperative period. This article describes rotator cuff repair using the NanoScope with a new dual-lumen cannula designed to improve direct visualization.…”

Wide-Awake Shoulder Nanoscopic Long Head of Biceps Tenotomy

“…Other reports have shown that the view with a Nanoscope is sufficient to safely carry out other surgical procedures in the shoulder. 5 , 6 …”

Editorial Commentary: Indications for Needle Arthroscopy as an Alternative to Magnetic Resonance Imaging: More to the Picture Than Meets the Eye

“…Over the past several years, we have published several techniques using the Nanoscope (Arthrex). [11][12][13] I prefer using the needle arthroscope in the operating room even as a diagnostic tool before making a final decision for treatment. This allows me to then address pathology in a single trip to the operating room if necessary, based upon my diagnostic findings.…”