Glenoid damage from articular protrusion of metal suture anchor after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

Arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff tears has been shown to be effective and safe. The use of suture anchors has increased the ability to perform rotator cuff repairs arthroscopically. However, the use of suture anchors for any surgery around the shoulder can result in complications if the devices are not used and inserted properly. Complications that have been reported with the use of suture anchors for rotator cuff surgery include prominent anchors in the tuberosities, dislodged anchors secondary to pull-out or improper insertion, and osteolysis around the anchors. We report a case of articular cartilage damage secondary to a suture anchor protruding through the humeral head because of improper anchor insertion. Our patient's case reminds surgeons not only to be careful of the depth of insertion of suture anchors when performing rotator cuff surgery but also to obtain radiographs to evaluate the anchor position if patients continue to have symptoms after rotator cuff repair using these devices.