The purpose of this study was to determine whether microfracture provides pain relief and improves shoulder function in patients with chondral defects of the glenohumeral joint. Methods: Microfracture was performed in glenohumeral joints with full-thickness chondral lesions. Concomitant procedures were performed as indicated. Patients aged 60 years or older and those with complete rotator cuff tears were excluded. We included 31 shoulders in 30 patients in this study. Included were 25 men and 5 women with a mean age of 43 years (range, 19 to 59 years). Of the 31 surgeries, 6 (19%) progressed to another surgery. Subjective data obtained at a minimum of 2 years’ follow-up were available in 24 patients (25 shoulders). Patient pain and functional outcomes were measured by use of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score and patient satisfaction. Data were analyzed by use of paired t tests and regression analysis.
Download Full Article: Outcomes of Full-Thickness Articular Cartilage Injuries of the shoulder
