Metal markers for radiographic visualization of rotator cuff margins: A new technique for radiographic assessment of cuff repair integrity

Surgically repaired rotator cuff repairs may re-tear in the post-operative follow-up phase, and periodic imaging is useful for early detection. The authors describe a simple surgical technique that provides a visible clue to the tendon edge on an anteroposterior radiograph of the shoulder. The technique involves arthroscopic or mini-open radio-opaque tagging of the tendon edge using a metal marker, and followed by a double-row rotator cuff repair using suture anchors. Serial post-operative radiographs may then be used to monitor the position of the marker. Progressive or marked displacement of the marker suggests a failure of cuff repair integrity and should be evaluated further.