The Mason-Loop for Single-Row Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Repair

Abstract

Rotator cuff injuries are common and can lead to pain and functional limitation of the shoulder, sometimes requiring surgical procedure. We describe a surgical approach combining the modified Mason-Allen and lasso-loop techniques for the repair of rotator cuff injuries. This hybrid approach brings the 2 advantages of each suture: the compression provided by the loop and the large quantity of tendons caught by the Mason-Allen in a single repair row.

Fig 1

Arthroscopic view through the lateral portal (right side, supine position) of the rotator cuff tear: tear of the supraspinatus (SSp) with the deeper layer of the supraspinatus still attached (DL) and the footprint greater tuberosity (GT).

Fig 2

Arthroscopic view through the lateral portal of the Mason-loop: on the left, the first thread of the mattress knot is being passed through the supraspinatus with the specific forceps. In the middle, the forceps pass through the loop made with the second thread to catch it, with a view of doing the lasso-loop. On the right, the second part of the first thread is passed through the supraspinatus to finish the mattress knot.

Fig 3

Arthroscopic view through lateral portal (right side, supine position): visualization of the results after the first anterior Mason-loop. First the loop is tightened before the horizontal mattress.

Fig 4

Arthroscopic view through lateral portal (right side, supine position): visualization of the reparation of the cuff tear after the second Mason-loop. The cuff is fixed again to the footprint.