Transtendon arthroscopic repair of partial-thickness, articular surface tears of the supraspinatus: results at 2 years.

Partial-thickness articular tears of the supraspinatus represent a not uncommon event in shoulder pathology, but their treatment remains controversial. We believe that these lesions must be treated with surgical repair: we hereby describe our technique of transtendon arthroscopic repair. We have treated 33 patients with an average age of 53.3 years (range 34-69). The average follow-up was 33 months (range 26-45). The post-operative Constant score values have shown a total increase of 48.2 points (from preoperative 44.4 points to post-operative 91.6 points). In the MRI follow-up assessment no cases of retears have occurred. The use of this technique enables the reconstitution of the tendon with complete reconstruction of its footprint without damaging its intact part. We believe that this can allow a better recovery.