[All arthroscopic treatment of rotator cuff tears]

Although shoulder arthroscopy was initially performed solely for subacromial decompression, at present it is widely used for rotator cuff repairs and reconstruction. All arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs have been performed increasingly over the past decade and favorable long-term results have been reported in the literature. All arthroscopic rotator cuff repair has advantages over mini-open, or open rotator cuff repair, because it is associated with less postoperative pain and morbidity, and a more rapid improvement in shoulder motion. However, complete arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is a technically difficult procedure, with some limitations including relative weakness of tendon sutures and the need for more experience. It is essential that the merits and demerits associated with this technique should be balanced depending on the individual condition of the patient and the degree of experience gained. This article revisits all arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with regard to advantages and disadvantages, surgical techniques, indications, postoperative rehabilitation, and the results both in the light of the literature and our experience.