Comparison of mini-open versus all-arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: retrospective analysis of a single center

INTRODUCTION: the aim of this study was to compare the impacts of all-arthroscopic repair and mini-open repair for rotator cuff tendon tear on post-operative pain, shoulder joint range of motion and physical function. METHODS: the study was a retrospective comparative analysis of rotator cuff repair between January 2013 and January 2018. The patients included in the study were enrolled into all-arthroscopic surgery or mini-open surgery groups. Patients were assessed with a 10mm visual analog scale for pain in the 7(th) day post-operatively. The physical function was assessed with Quick Disabilities Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire at 12(th) month. The flexion and abduction ROM of the involved site were measured preoperatively and 12 months after the surgery. RESULTS: a total of 40 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the all-arthroscopic surgery group was significantly lower than the open surgery group (46.9±6.9 vs. 52.45±4.0 years). While no complication was seen in the arthroscopic group, 5 patients had superficial infection in the open surgery group. The patients in the all-arthroscopic surgery group experienced significantly less pain in the 7(th) day of the surgery. Improvement in Quick Dash score and shoulder flexion after surgery were significantly higher in the all-arthroscopic surgery group. None of the patients needed revision surgery in both groups. CONCLUSION: according to the results of this study, arthroscopically operated patients with rotator cuff tear had less pain in the first week after surgery. Patients in this group had better shoulder flexion and function in long-term follow-up with no post-operative complication.