Double-row Rotator Cuff Repair

The New Gold Standard

Abstract

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is an increasingly prevalent procedure. Maximizing postoperative outcomes is directly dependent on the integrity of the surgical fixation of tendon-to-bone. Double-row repair utilizes 2 rows of suture anchor fixation of tendon-to-bone: 1 row medially near the articular margin of the humeral head, and a second row laterally near the greater tuberosity. Among the biomechanical and biophysical benefits of double-row repair (as compared with single-row repair) are: a more anatomic footprint reconstruction, decreased strain and increased stiffness across the repair, smaller gap formation and “dog ear deformities,” and a more encouraging healing environment. Furthermore, the clinical and radiographic benefits of double-row repair are improved functional outcome scores and decreased retear rates.