Minimum 10-year outcomes of partial rotator cuff repairs – Failure rates and clinical significance

Authors:

Dey Hazra RO, Dey Hazra ME, Hanson JA, Doan KC, Rutledge C, Horan MP, Dornan GJ, Millett PJ

Abstract:

Background:

The prevalence of partial-thickness rotator cuff tears (PTRCTs) has been reported to be 13% to 40% within the adult population, accounting for 70% of all rotator cuff tears. Approximately 29% of PTRCTs will progress to full-thickness tears if left untreated. The long-term clinical course after arthroscopic repair of PTRCTs is not well known.

Purpose:

To investigate minimum 10-year patient-reported outcomes (PROs) after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR) of the supraspinatus tendon and to report reoperation and complication rates.

Study design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Patients were included who underwent arthroscopic RCR of a PTRCT performed by a single surgeon between October 2005 and October 2011. Arthroscopic RCR was performed with a transtendon repair of partial, articular-sided supraspinatus tendon avulsions, bursal-sided repair, or conversion into a full-thickness tear and repair. PRO data were collected preoperatively and at a minimum 10 years postoperatively. PRO measures included the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score, the shortened version of Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score (QuickDASH), the 12-Item Short Form Health Survey Physical Component Summary, and patient satisfaction. Subanalyses were performed to determine if tear location or age was associated with outcomes. Retears, revision surgery, and surgical complications were recorded.

Results:

In total, 33 patients (21 men, 12 women) at a mean age of 50 years (range, 23-68) met criteria for inclusion. Follow-up was obtained in 28 (87.5%) of the 32 eligible patients ≥10 years out from surgery (mean, 12 years; range, 10-15 years). Of the 33 PTCRTs, 21 were articular sided and 12 were bursal sided. Of the 33 patients, 26 underwent concomitant biceps tenodesis. At follow-up, the mean PROs were significantly improved when compared with preoperative levels: American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score from 67.3 to 93.7 (P < .001), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation from 70.9 to 91.2 (P = .004), QuickDASH from 22.3 to 6.6 (P < .004), and 12-Item Short Form Health Survey Physical Component Summary from 44.8 to 54.2 (P < .001). Median postoperative satisfaction was 10 (range, 5-10). No patient underwent revision surgery.

Conclusion:

Arthroscopic repair of PTRCTs results in excellent clinical outcomes and high patient satisfaction at minimum 10-year follow-up. Furthermore, the procedure is highly durable, with a clinical survivorship rate of 100% at 10 years.

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Peter Millett, MD

Average rating:

39 reviews

Alexandra Thompson

Mar 23, 2024

by Alexandra Thompson on Peter Millett, MD

110%

Dr. Millett and his team did a SLAP tear repair and bicep tenodesis on my left shoulder. I use my arms as an artist, and love to swim in the ocean, surf, paddle, and telemark ski. So regaining full use of my shoulder and keeping my bicep attached was very important to me. Now, over two years later, my shoulder has the equivalent range of motion as my other arm and as before the injury, and no pain. After the first three months it felt so good and was so strong that - to my horror - I completely forgot my six-month follow-up.

Not only did Dr. Millett and his team make my arm as good as new, but having had the experience of such kindness and expertise throughout the process of surgery and recovery is like an added shoulder superpower.

Thank you Rita, Brooke, Jason, Sarah, Camille, Olivia, Dr. Millett and everyone! And see you soon when my husband comes in for his knee...

Jeff Chandler

Jan 31, 2022

by Jeff Chandler on Peter Millett, MD

Flawless procedure, Easy recovery

Dr. Millet's repaired my knee and tibia, following a botched operation by a different surgeon. That procedure was virtually pain free and I was weight bearing within a few days. That was 18 years ago and the knee is still strong. A few years after the knee incident, Dr Millet repaired my shoulder. My insurance company approved me for 3 months of disability following that surgery. I was off pain medication in 2 days and had 90% range of motion within a week. I withdrew my disability claim and returned to work within two weeks of surgery. I’m not a famous athlete—just a regular guy. Nonetheless, I was treated like an NFL at the Steadman clinic. Most notable was the time for recovery. Other surgeons perform their hour-long task in the OR and don’t involve themselves in the other functions. Peter and his team manages the entire process from diagnosis, anesthesia, nursing care, and therapy. He takes a holistic approach to patient care and doesn’t skip any steps.

Jenn West

Jul 2, 2021

by Jenn West on Peter Millett, MD

Saved My Life

I went to Dr. Millett after 7 knee surgeries (6 on my right and 1 on my left) and had seen 11 different surgeons who all refused to remove femur metal from my right leg. I am highly allergic to metal and the chronic pain was leaving me bedridden for 3.5wks out of a month. He personally wrote me back on my inquiry, listened to my concerns, scheduled my surgery within a week (due to insurance issues) and personally followed up with my recovery. The level of patient care from Dr. Millett and his ENTIRE team is above any care I have ever received in my 20 years of dealing with orthopedic surgeons. There are not enough words to describe the level of care, dedication and professionalism you receive from Dr. Millett and his staff.
My only disappointment is that I did not find him sooner!!!