Functional and structural outcomes of arthroscopic single-row repair in full-thickness rotator cuff tears

Objectives: This study evaluates the functional outcomes and structural integrity following single-row (SR) arthroscopic repair in patients with full-thickness rotator cuff tears. The influence of pre-operative fatty atrophy and tear size on post-operative outcomes is also analyzed to determine their prognostic significance. Materials and Methods: Sixty patients who underwent SR arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were followed for a minimum of 24 months (mean follow-up: 35.93 ± 26.24 months). Functional outcomes were assessed using the Constant-Murley Score (CMS) and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) score. Structural integrity was evaluated through ultrasonography using the Sugaya classification. The impact of tear size and fatty infiltration on post-operative outcomes was analyzed. Results: Significant improvements were observed postoperatively. The mean CMS improved to 94.83 ± 7.78 ( P < 0.001), and the mean UCLA score increased to 33.82 ± 6.7 ( P < 0.001). Active forward flexion, external rotation, and muscle strength improved significantly, while pain scores decreased (Visual analog scale: 1.2 ± 0.75, P < 0.001). Structural assessment revealed 85% of patients with Sugaya type I repairs (mean CMS: 97.06 ± 5.21), 10% with type II (CMS: 82.67 ± 9.42), and 5% with type III or higher (CMS: 81.33 ± 6.35), all statistically significant ( P < 0.001). Tear size and fatty atrophy did not significantly affect functional outcomes. Conclusion: SR arthroscopic repair for full-thickness rotator cuff tears yields excellent functional results and tendon healing at a minimum follow-up of 24 months. Superior outcomes were associated with intact tendon healing. Pre-operative tear size and fatty atrophy were not significant predictors of post-operative function.