HIGH-GRADE PARTIAL-THICKNESS ROTATOR CUFF TEARS

There were two high quality studies (Kim, 2015; Shin, 2012) and two moderate quality studies (Castagna, 2015; Franceschi, 2013). The remainder of published studies either had too few subjects (<20) or were low quality level IV studies. Kim 2015 noted no difference in either clinical outcomes or re-tear rates comparing transtendinous RC repair versus tear completion with RC repair in Ellman III partial-thickness rotator cuff tears. Bursal side cuff tears had a higher retear rate with either technique. Shin, 2012 noted similar outcomes for the two groups, but noted a significantly faster recovery with tear completion. Retears were higher in the tear completion group but did not reach statistical significance. Castagna 2015 looked at a total of 74 patients randomized to transtendinous repair versus tear completion with repair. There were no significant differences between the two groups. Franceschi 2013 reported that outcomes and retear rates were comparable between transtendinous repair and tear completion with repair.

Future Research
Additional high-quality Level I studies with longer follow-up would be helpful in determining the longevity of these procedures, as well as establishing the risk of retears.