Nondisruptive Full-Thickness Double-Row Repair Technique for Bursal-Sided Partial-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears

A variety of surgical techniques have been described for managing bursal-sided partial-thickness rotator cuff tears (PTRCTs). A key consideration when treating these lesions is whether to complete the tear or to preserve the remaining intact fibers. Accordingly, current surgical strategies for bursal-sided PTRCTs include in situ and tear completion repair; each approach has its own limitations. We describe a nondisruptive full-thickness double-row repair technique, which captures the full thickness of the rotator cuff tendon while minimizing disruption to the preserved articular surface fibers. After full-thickness passage of the anchor sutures through the intact tendon assisted with a spinal needle, lateral-row fixation is achieved with a down-pressing anchor. This technique aims to enhance tendon healing and maximize restoration of the native tendon to its anatomic footprint in patients with bursal-sided PTRCTs.