Arthroscopic Single-anchor Repair of Isolated Subscapularis Tendon Tears – Results after Ten Years Follow-up

The subscapularis muscle is the strongest and largest from the rotator cuff complex and provides over half of its strength. However, isolated subscapularis tendon tears are more frequently reported nowadays. With comparable outcomes to open surgery and a low complications rate, arthroscopic repair of these lesions is being utilized more often. Additionally, authors describe different techniques with similar results. The aim of this study was to discover the long-term results of arthroscopic single-anchor repair of isolated subscapularis tendon tears. This is a single-centre retrospective study involving 41 patients with isolated subscapularis tendon tears. All the participants underwent arthroscopic single-anchor repair and were re-evaluated after 121 ± 2 months. Demographic data, functional scores, complications rate, re-tear rate, and reoperations were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed. The study involved 24 male patients (58.5%). Ninety-three percent of the patients were over 52 years old (range 49–63). The University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) scores improved from 13.7 ± 2 preoperatively to 30.2 ± 1 postoperatively (p < 0.05). The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores changed from 38.1 to 88.5 (p < 0.05). Complications rate was 4.8% with two patients undergoing a total shoulder replacement surgery 89 and 101 months postoperatively. Arthroscopic single-anchor repair is a safe and viable option for treating isolated subscapularis tendon tears. The procedure has shown good to excellent results with high rates of patient satisfaction, decreased pain, and improved function after long-term follow-up.