Repair of Partial Tears of the Rotator Cuff

Background: Partial-thickness rotator cuff tears (PTCT) are particularly common among individuals participating in overhead sports and can lead to significant pain and functional impairment. Understanding the mechanisms behind these tears, assessing them, and exploring appropriate treatment options to optimize recovery and return to sport is crucial. Consequently, this study addresses the clinical challenges associated with partial-thickness rotator cuff tears (PTCT) in athletes and active individuals, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive assessment to determine the extent of the tear and the most effective surgical intervention when conservative management fails. Methods: The authors conducted a systematic review of the literature focusing on repairs of partial-thickness rotator cuff tears and analyzed studies published from ۲۰۰۰ to ۲۰۲۳. This review included data related to patient demographics, surgical outcomes, rehabilitation protocols, and complications. It also emphasized the evaluation of the effectiveness of various repair techniques, including arthroscopic methods and the use of suture anchors for tendon reattachment. Results: Findings indicate that PTCT is common among athletes, with articular-sided tears being the most prevalent type. Surgical intervention is generally recommended for tears greater than ۵۰ percent of tendon thickness or cases that do not respond to conservative treatment after two months of physical therapy. This review showed that arthroscopic repair techniques yield satisfactory functional outcomes, with success rates exceeding ۹۵ per cent for small tears. Complications were minimal, although some patients experienced residual pain or stiffness post-surgery. The study also noted that early intervention is critical and that delays in surgery may lead to tear progression and poorer outcomes. Furthermore, postoperative rehabilitation protocols are designed for individual athletes, focusing on restoring strength and function while minimizing the risk of re-injury. Conclusion: In conclusion, repairing partial-thickness rotator cuff tears is essential to prevent long-term functional impairment in athletes. This study highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and intervention, particularly for significant tears that do not improve with conservative measures. Surgical techniques, especially arthroscopic methods using suture anchors, have been effective in restoring shoulder function and reducing pain. Additionally, future research should continue to refine surgical techniques and rehabilitation protocols to enhance recovery outcomes for young athletes with PTCT.

کلیدواژه ها:

Partial Thickness Rotator Cuff Tear ، Arthroscopic Repair ، Suture Anchors ، Shoulder Injuries ، Rehabilitation Protocols