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Retear After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair Results in Functional Outcome Deterioration Over Time
Hyeon Jang Jeong1, Kyung Pyo Nam2, Ji Hyun Yeo3
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea.
Summary
Rotator cuff retear after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ASRCR) is linked to osteoarthritis progression. While function improves initially, retear leads to long-term functional decline and pain, especially after 5 years.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Musculoskeletal Research
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ASRCR) aims to restore function and prevent osteoarthritis (OA) progression.
- Rotator cuff retear is a known complication that may impact long-term outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of rotator cuff retear on long-term functional outcomes after ASRCR.
- To assess the association between retear and glenohumeral joint osteoarthritis progression.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 201 patients undergoing ASRCR with >5 years follow-up.
- Assessment of tendon integrity via MRI/ultrasonography.
- Evaluation of pain, range of motion, and ASES scores for functional outcomes.
Main Results:
- Overall retear rate was 21.4%; retear strongly correlated with OA progression (OR 5.1).
- Functional outcomes improved at 2 years post-ASRCR, irrespective of retear.
- The retear group showed worse long-term functional outcomes and faster deterioration of pain and ASES scores compared to the healed group.
Conclusions:
- ASRCR improves functional status in the short and long term, regardless of retear.
- Rotator cuff retear is a significant risk factor for osteoarthritis progression.
- Retear leads to a deterioration of long-term functional outcomes not evident in the short term.
