Single Row Rotator Cuff Repair with Triple Loaded Suture Anchors: The SCOI Row Technique

Since the introduction of rotator cuff repair in the beginning of the 20th century, there have been significant advances in the surgical techniques and improvement in patient outcomes. However, controversy remains regarding the best method for tendon repair, including implant choice, ideal suture construct, and the potential benefits of supplemental biologic additives in order to achieve repair with the best opportunity for healing. The "SCOI Row" technique has been refined over three decades with extensive application and consistently good outcomes. Our technique uses a single row of anchors, triple loaded with a high-strength suture maximizing the number of sutures passed through the tendon to repair the rotator cuff arthroscopically. These anchors are placed 3-4 millimeters from the articular cartilage, providing strong anchorage and a low-tension repair. Debridement of devitalized tendon and only incorporating healthy tendon into the repair is imperative. The biology of the repair is enhanced with bone marrow vents created via microfracture of the greater tuberosity, forming the "Crimson Duvet" or bone marrow super-clot that will envelope the repair site. The bone marrow vents deliver marrow elements, including growth factors and mesenchymal cells that will help to regenerate the footprint of the rotator cuff. This repair construct has been evaluated biomechanically by other investigators and is favorable, as compared to dual row repairs. Our outcomes show greater than 90 % healing rate on postoperative magnetic resonance imaging and excellent patient-reported outcomes.