Arthroscopic Single-Portal Subscapularis Tendon Repair

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Arthroscopy

Background:

• Subscapularis tendon tears present diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
• The subscapularis is crucial for overall shoulder function.
• Existing arthroscopic repair methods can be complex, requiring specialized instruments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel, simplified arthroscopic technique for subscapularis tendon repair.
• To present a single-portal approach utilizing only penetrating graspers.
• To evaluate the applicability of this technique for different types of subscapularis tears.

Main Methods:

• Arthroscopic subscapularis repair performed through a single anterior portal.
• Exclusive use of penetrating graspers, avoiding suture passers or retrievers.
• Technique demonstrated for partial, complete, and retracted subscapularis tears.

Main Results:

• Successful arthroscopic repair of subscapularis tears was achieved.
• The single-portal technique with penetrating graspers proved effective.
• The method is versatile, applicable to various tear patterns.

Conclusions:

• This single-anterior-portal arthroscopic technique offers a simplified and effective method for subscapularis tendon repair.
• The use of penetrating graspers streamlines the procedure, potentially reducing complexity and instrument requirements.
• This approach facilitates the restoration of shoulder function in patients with diverse subscapularis tears.