Articular surface partial-thickness rotator cuff tears

Between 1987 and 1992, one hundred eleven articular surface partial-thickness rotator cuff tears were diagnosed in 106 patients; 90 were men, and 16 were women. The average age was 42.5 years. Average follow-up was 32.3 months, ranging from 26 to 84 months. Patients were separated into three groups. Group 1 consisted of 85 shoulders in which impingement was believed to be the primary cause; these shoulders were treated with debridement of the tear and arthroscopic subacromial decompression. Group 2 consisted of 14 shoulders with instability treated with debridement of the partial tear and anterior reconstruction (n=10)_or debridement and rehabilitation (n=4). Group 3 contained 12 shoulders with tearing caused by trauma that were managed with debridement and open repair, if necessary. In 98 of 111 cases (88%), the patients had a satisfactory result. Five patients required open rotator cuff repair at a later date because of continued symptoms. Complications included significant postoperative stiffness in four shoulders, which required open release.