Arthroscopic Shoelace Side-to-Side Repair Technique Using Ultratape for the Treatment of Longitudinal Midsubstance Rotator Cuff Tears

Arthrosc Tech. 2017 Oct 9;6(5):e1845-e1850. doi: 10.1016/j.eats.2017.06.058. eCollection 2017 Oct.

Abstract

Shoulder arthroscopy is a promising tool for assessing and treating patients with a rotator cuff tear. Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with suture anchor fixation such as the single-row, double-row, and suture bridge technique are popular procedures that can provide excellent clinical outcomes. On the other hand, longitudinal midsubstance, U-shape, or L-shape tears may benefit more from a side-to-side/margin convergence technique. Despite following the standard side-to-side/margin convergence technique, we continue to see disruption at the site of side-to-side suture margin even with strong sutures. Here, we show our preferred arthroscopic shoelace rotator cuff repair technique using the more durable body tape for a longitudinal U-shape rotator cuff tear.