Navigating the Research in Rotator Cuff Disease: An Evidence-Based Approach to Improved Patient Outcomes

Rotator cuff tears are prevalent injuries, yet their management and identifying patients who will benefit from surgical intervention are controversial topics. Population studies demonstrate high rates of asymptomatic tears that, with time, show a general progression of the pathologic state. However, not all tears are or will become symptomatic or require surgical intervention. Surgeons should be aware of the natural history of rotator cuff tears and be able to identify injuries at risk of progression or causing symptoms, be able to determine the cellular level of tear characteristics and healing, understand current management strategies and outcomes, and be familiar with future directions for therapies and research.