Capstan screw rotator cuff repair: a novel two-row mini-open technique

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Investigated a novel mini-open double row rotator cuff repair technique: the Capstan screw technique.
• Prospective data collected from 143 patients with symptomatic rotator cuff tears between 2000-2010.
• Focused on evaluating the efficacy of this specific surgical approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the clinical outcomes and effectiveness of the Capstan screw technique for rotator cuff repair.
• To evaluate patient-reported scores and range of motion following the procedure.
• To determine the re-tear rates and patient satisfaction associated with this surgical method.

Main Methods:

• Collected pre- and postoperative Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS) and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores.
• Measured patient range of motion pre- and post-surgery.
• Excluded subscapularis, small (<1cm), and massive (>5cm) supraspinatus repairs; 87 of 99 eligible patients completed follow-up.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements observed in OSS (21.85 to 44.58) and ASES scores (51.5 to 86.42) (p<0.0001).
• Mean flexion improved from 119° to 170° (p<0.0001).
• Low clinical (3.4%) and imaged (6.8%) re-tear rates, with 91% patient satisfaction and no deep infections.

Conclusions:

• The Capstan screw technique is a simple, rapid, and reliable mini-open surgical approach.
• Demonstrates strong and effective results for rotator cuff repair.
• Offers a safe and satisfactory treatment option for eligible patients.