Arthroscopic Bursal-Sided Transtendon Double-Pulley Repair of Intratendinous Rotator Cuff Tears

Intratendinous tears of the rotator cuff, a specific pattern of partial-thickness rotator cuff tears, are relatively common. Depending on the type of partial-thickness tear, surgeons may opt for debridement, acromioplasty, or repair (either conversion repair or in situ repair). However, there are only a few articles that focus specifically on the arthroscopic repair of intratendinous rotator cuff tears. Arthroscopic bursal-sided, transtendon, double-pulley repair is a practical surgical technique that aims to preserve the original structural integrity of the tendon. This method compresses the bursal-sided layer onto the bone, while minimizing the risk of tension mismatch between the articular and bursa sides. The procedure is relatively simple, as it does not require sutures to pass through the rotator cuff tendon itself. Additionally, it facilitates early rehabilitation and reduces the risk of postoperative stiffness.