Abstract
Purpose
Controversy exists regarding the optimal technique for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. The purpose of this multicentre randomized double-blind controlled study was to compare the functional outcomes and healing rates of double-row suture techniques with single row repair.
Method
Patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were randomized to receive either a double row (DR) or single row (SR) repair. The primary objective was to compare the WORC score at 24 months. Secondary objectives included anatomical outcomes by MRI or ultrasound, the Constant, and ASES scores. A sample size calculation determined that 84 patients provided 80% power with a 50% effect size to detect a statistical difference between groups.
Results
Baseline demographic data did not differ between groups including age (p=0.4), sex (p=0.71), affected side (p=0.33) and cuff tear size (p=0.95). WORC outcome comparison between groups revealed that no statistical differences were detected at any time points (p=0.9, baseline; p=0.15, 3 months; p=0.41, 6 months; p=0.46, 12 months, p=0.42, 24 months). Statistically significant improvements occurred in both groups from baseline to all time points in all clinical outcome scores (p<0.0001).
Conclusion
No statistically significant differences in primary or secondary outcomes were identified between DR and SR techniques. Given the added time to complete the procedures and the added cost of additional implants, this trial does not provide justification for use of the more complex repair technique.
