Satisfactory functional and structural outcomes of anterior cable reconstruction using the proximal biceps tendon for...

Large retracted anterior L-shaped tear characterized by a retracted supraspinatus tendon to the glenoid level combined with a relatively preserved infraspinatus tendon is one of the challenging tear patterns in achieving complete repair to the anatomic footprint. The purpose of this study was to evaluate clinical outcomes and tendon integrity of rotator cuff repair combined with anterior cable reconstruction using the proximal biceps tendon in patients with large retracted anterior L-shaped rotator cuff tear.

This study prospectively enrolled patients who underwent arthroscopic anterior cable reconstruction using the proximal biceps tendon for large retracted anterior L-shaped rotator cuff tears between 2018 and 2020 with a minimum 2-year follow-up. The anterior portion of the rotator cable was reconstructed using tenotomized proximal biceps tendon fixed with two suture anchors at the footprint. The retracted supraspinatus tendon was repaired on the biceps tendon without undue tension. The proximal portion of the infraspinatus tendon was repaired with the biceps tendon-supraspinatus tendon complex. Clinical outcomes was assessed during the follow-up period. Tendon integrity and retear size were evaluated by postoperative MRI.

A total of 32 consecutive patients were included. The ASES score was significantly improved from 66.6 ± 16.6 preoperatively to 94.1 ± 6.1 postoperatively (P < 0.001), and the VAS for pain was significantly relieved from 2.8 ± 1.9 preoperatively to 0.5 ± 0.4 postoperatively (P < 0.001). All patients were satisfied postoperatively regardless of tendon integrity (P = 0.015). Postoperative ROM was increased continuously during the follow-up period (P < 0.001). The Popeye sign was found in 4 patients (12.5%). Six patients (18.7%) had rotator cuff retears. However, the ASES score of patients with retear was significantly improved from 72.8 ± 13.3 preoperatively to 91.1 ± 6.7 postoperatively (P < 0.001). Relative changes in the retear size compared with the primary tear size were -56.8 ± 14.4% for the anteroposterior diameter and - 70.6 ± 6.1% for the mediolateral diameter.

Rotator cuff repair combined with anterior cable reconstruction using the proximal biceps tendon provided satisfactory clinical and radiological outcomes for large retracted anterior L-shaped tears. Anterior cable reconstruction using the proximal biceps tendon is a sound surgical option for the patients with large retracted anterior rotator cuff tear.

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