Anterolateral approach for mini-open rotator cuff repair

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Shoulder Reconstruction

Background:

• Rotator cuff tears are common shoulder injuries.
• Minimally invasive techniques aim to improve surgical outcomes.
• The anterolateral approach offers potential advantages in visualization and access.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate an anterolateral approach for mini-open rotator cuff repair.
• To assess the clinical effectiveness and outcomes of this surgical technique.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective evaluation of 128 patients undergoing mini-open rotator cuff repair via an anterolateral approach.
• Procedures included arthroscopic glenohumeral examination and subacromial decompression.
• Torn tendons were repaired using single- or double-row suture anchor techniques.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements observed in Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Activity of Daily Living (ADL), and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon (ASES) scores post-surgery.
• High rates of excellent (71) and good (39) outcomes reported.
• Men achieved significantly higher final ASES scores compared to women.

Conclusions:

• The anterolateral approach for mini-open rotator cuff repair yields satisfactory clinical results.
• This technique may enhance visualization of rotator cuff tears across all sizes.