Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair in 2019: Linked, Double Row Repair for Achieving Higher Healing Rates and Optimal Clinical Outcomes

Abstract

The primary aim of rotator cuff repair surgery is to restore the musculotendinous units by creating a complete, tension-free repair construct that optimizes conditions for tendon-to-bone healing. There are many factors outside the control of the surgeon that are capable of affecting the healing process; however, there are also a number of important technical considerations that the surgeon can control, including familiarity with methods to deal with immobile tissues and techniques to perform novel repair constructs. It is clear that linked double row repairs are more likely to heal, and healed rotator cuff repairs best restore shoulder strength, improve patients' satisfaction, and maximize functional outcomes.