rotator cuff tears Flashcards
when can the tendons of the rotator cuff tear
with minimal or no trauma as a consequence of degeneration
classic history
sudden jerk in patient over 40 years old resulting in subsequent pain and weakness
how many people have asymptomatic rotator cuff tears
at least 20% of over 60 year olds
who are rotator cuff tears extremely uncommon in
young people
what can the tears be
partial or full thickness and usually involve the supraspinatus
larger tears
can extend into the subscapularis and infrapinatus
presentation
pain and weakness on initiation of abduction (supraspinatus) and internal rotation (subscapularis) and external rotation (infraspinatus)
investigation for rotator cuff tears
MRI
management of rotator cuff tears
physiotherapy to strengthen up the remaining rotator cuff muscles as the can usually compensate for loss of supraspinatus muscle
surgery for rotator cuff tears
is controversial as one third inevitably fail but may be used if there is need to maintain strength or to prevent subsequent osteoarthritis