Mid- to long-term results of modified tension band technique for small- and medium-sized rotator cuff tears

This study aims to evaluate the mid- to long-term outcomes of the tension-band suture technique for small- and medium-sized rotator cuff tears.

Between January 2015 and January 2022, a total of 36 patients (21 males, 15 females; median age: 55 years; range, 35 to 65 years) with small- and medium-sized tears, classified according to Cofield, who were treated with the arthroscopic modified tension-band method were retrospectively analyzed. Functional outcomes were assessed using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon (ASES) shoulder scores, and structural evaluations were conducted via ultrasound. Patient satisfaction was measured using the ASES Index score. Concomitant biceps pathology and the number of anchors used were also recorded.

The overall median follow-up was 49.9 (range, 22 to 100) months. There was a significant postoperative improvement in functional outcomes, with the median preoperative ASES score of 18.5 (range, 8 to 32) improving to 89 (range, 68 to 100). However, patient satisfaction, as measured by the ASES Index score (median: 4.4), declined after 52 months. Retears occurred in six patients, primarily after 52 months, indicating long-term issues. No correlation was found between outcomes and patient age, biceps tendon pathology, or the number of anchors used.

Our study results highlight the arthroscopic modified tension-band technique as a viable option for small- to medium-sized rotator cuff tears, offering favorable functional outcomes, but raising concerns about long-term patient satisfaction.