Classification Systems in Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff pathology is one of the most common conditions affecting the shoulder joint. Several classification systems have been used to describe rotator cuff tears in orthopedic literature. However, no comprehensive classification inclusive of all types and characteristics currently exists. Rotator cuff tears are classified based on various parameters. These include: 1. Tear depth 2. Tear Size/Extent 3. Tear Retraction 4. Tendon Quality 5. Tear Progression 6. Arthroscopic Classification. This review article aims to establish an algorithm based on the various existing classification systems so as to arrive at the best surgical or non-surgical solution as well as prognosticate the patient regarding the outcome. Special consideration needs to be made for massive tears which are irreparable. Keywords: Rotator cuff tears; Rotator cuff tear classification; Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears; Partial rotator cuff tears; Subscapularis tears; Geometric Classification; Arthroscopic Classification; Rotator cuff retraction; Rotator cuff tendon quality; Prognosis for Rotator Cuff tears.

Natural History of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears are a frequent phenomenon with an increasing incidence when the patient gets older. A considerable number of tears remain asymptomatic during a lifetime. However, still, a substantial number of asymptomatic tears become symptomatic. There is, at present evolving evidence that surgical treatment of small to medium-sized tears does better than conservative treatment, even after a long term follow-up. A treatment algorithm is suggested to help the clinician in decision making, where tear size and age are important factors in the prognosis of surgical treatment. Keywords: Rotator cuff; Ruptures; Natural historyf tears; Partial rotator cuff tears; Subscapularis tears; Geometric Classification; Arthroscopic Classification; Rotator cuff retraction; Rotator cuff tendon quality; Prognosis for Rotator Cuff tears.

Role And Outcomes of Conservative Treatment in Management of Rotator Cuff Tears: A Systematic Review of Randomised Controlled Trials

Rotator cuff tears are known to result in significant societal burden. This review synthesises the evidence regarding the role and outcomes of conservatively managed rotator cuff tears. 17 prospective randomised controlled trials (RCTs) (Level 1 and 2 studies) were included in this systematic review. Modalities which were studied were classified into physical rehabilitative modalities, electrophysiological rehabilitative modalities, biological therapies, and pharmacologic therapies. Outcomes which were evaluated in the included RCTs comprised of clinical outcomes, functional outcomes, pain scores, quality of life scores, imaging based outcomes, and patient satisfaction scores. As the modalities and outcomes studied were varied, no quantitative analysis could be performed based on the primary data available. Nevertheless, most studies do suggest that conservative treatment remains beneficial for the management of rotator cuff tears. Based on these findings, an algorithm which proposes conservative therapy as the central mode of management for rotator cuff tear patients has been described. More high-quality studies are required in this area of study to allow for a quantitative review (meta-analysis and meta-regression) of the various non-surgical treatment modalities of rotator cuff tears. Keywords: Rotator Cuff Tears; Conservative; Non-operative; Management; Randomised controlled trials; Review.

Should We be Routinely Performing Arthroscopic Subacromial Decompression During Rotator Cuff Repair (RCR)?

Symptomatic rotator cuff tears cause pain and impaired function. Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is an established treatment when nonoperative management fails. However, debate exists regarding the requirement of concurrent subacromial decompression. This review aims to answer pertinent questions and outline relevant literature in the role of arthroscopic subacromial decompression in rotator cuff repair. Keywords: Decompression, Cuff, Arthroscopic, Repair.