Evolving Strategies for Rotator Cuff Repair: From Incision to Innovation – Mini-open versus Arthroscopic Repair: A Retrospective Study with Short-term Functional Outcome Assessment
Author : Dr. Pranil Yadav, Dr. Ankit Marfatia, Dr. Sagar Jawale, Dr. Aravind Chanal, Dr. Shrikant Dhumale and Dr. Abhinav Adgokar
Abstract :
Introduction: Rotator cuff tears are a leading cause of shoulder dysfunction. While both mini-open and arthroscopic repair techniques are widely used, arthroscopy offers potential advantages including a minimally invasive approach, reduced postoperative pain, and earlier initiation of rehabilitation.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 38 patients with isolated rotator cuff tears (23 arthroscopic, 15 mini-open). Functional outcomes were assessed using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain, Constant-Murley Score, and range of motion (ROM: flexion, abduction, external and internal rotation) at baseline, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months post-operatively.
Results: Both groups demonstrated statistically and clinically meaningful improvements in VAS, Constant-Murley Score, and ROM across the follow-up intervals. The arthroscopic group showed slightly better short-term outcomes, particularly in pain reduction and recovery of forward flexion and abduction; gains in external and internal rotation were similar between groups. A small number of complications were observed (including superficial infection and postoperative stiffness/adhesive capsulitis), which were manageable with standard care.
Conclusion: Both arthroscopic and mini-open rotator cuff repairs provide effective short-term functional recovery. Arthroscopic repair produced marginally superior early outcomes in pain relief and elevation (flexion/abduction) and may be preferred when rapid rehabilitation and minimal early morbidity are priorities. Complications were infrequent and readily treatable.
Keywords :
Rotator cuff tear, arthroscopic repair, mini-open repair, visual analogue scale (VAS), constant-murley score.
