Long-term outcome of a consecutive series of subscapularis tendon tears repaired arthroscopically

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcome of arthroscopic repair of subscapularis tendon tears.

Methods: A retrospective review was performed of subscapularis tendon tears treated with an arthroscopic technique from 1999 to 2003. Revision repairs and open repairs were excluded. The minimum follow-up was 7 years. Postoperative functional outcome was determined by University of California, Los Angeles and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores.

Results: Seventy-nine patients with a mean age of 60.8 years at the time of surgery were available for follow-up at a mean of 104.7 months. Mean University of California, Los Angeles scores improved from 16.5 preoperatively to 30.1 postoperatively (P < .001), and mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores improved from 40.8 preoperatively to 88.5 postoperatively (P < .001). Results were rated as good or excellent in 83.3% of cases, 92.4% of patients returned to normal activities, and 92.4% of patients were satisfied.

Conclusions: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair that includes repair of the subscapularis tendon can lead to good or excellent results in most cases. This study shows that improvement in functional outcome after arthroscopic repair of a subscapularis tendon tear is maintained long-term.

Level of evidence: Level IV, therapeutic case series.