Rotator Cuff Partial-Thickness Tears: Review of Current Surgical Management

Abstract

Rotator cuff partial-thickness tears are a common cause of shoulder pain and disability affecting mainly the middle age group of active population. Despite improvements in diagnosis and surgical techniques, treatment has remained controversial. Over the last decade however, results of randomised controlled trials have become available and offer an evidence-based guidance on the selection of the appropriate surgical technique. We review the epidemiology, natural history and treatment of rotator cuff partial-thickness tears and discuss the results of recent studies and the current trends in the surgical management of this debilitating condition.