Rotator interval dimensions in different shoulder arthroscopy positions: a cadaveric study.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Anatomy

Background:

• The rotator interval is a critical anatomical structure in the shoulder.
• Understanding its dimensions is vital for surgical procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate rotator interval dimensions across different shoulder arthroscopy positions.
• To analyze how rotation and abduction affect the coracoid base length.

Main Methods:

• Measurements of rotator interval dimensions were taken in 15 cadaveric shoulders.
• Three arthroscopic positions (beach chair, lateral decubitus 1, lateral decubitus 2) were used.
• Measurements were recorded in neutral, internal, and external rotation.

Main Results:

• The coracoid base lengthened with internal rotation and abduction.
• The coracoid base was shortest in the beach chair position with external rotation (24 mm).
• The coracoid base was longest in lateral decubitus 2 with internal rotation (33 mm).

Conclusions:

• Rotator interval plication should consider patient positioning to avoid postoperative external rotation restriction.
• Surgical technique adjustments in rotation and abduction are recommended based on position.