[Arthroscopic rotator cuff construction : Current state of refixation techniques]

The treatment of rotator cuff tears is affected by numerous factors. In addition to the patient's age, quality of blood supply, age and size of the tear and fatty infiltration, the refixation technique is important to ensure successful treatment. In recent years a trend towards arthroscopic operation techniques has been observed due to new developments in the field.The most important principles of arthroscopic refixation techniques currently used are presented. Special attention is paid to the type of suture, suture anchors and anchor arrangements used. Biomechanics and footprint coverage of double row constructions are superior to single row but clinical results do not show any clear advantages. If feasible, double row rotator cuff repair with lateral suture bridging seems to represent presently a useful technique with a superior rate of tendon healing.