EC Orthopaedics

In rotator cuff repairs we have different techniques, among them transtendinous rotator cuff repair is being done for symptomatic partial-thickness rotator cuff tears. This is especially to have better biomechanical outcomes. In spite of that one of the hindrances we face is early postoperative stiffness and slower recovery. McBroom., et al. did a study of 61 patients in which accelerated physical therapy protocol (passive and active-assisted range of motion at 2 to 4 weeks, active range of motion as early as 4 to 6 weeks, strengthening at 6 to 8 weeks, and earlier discontinuation of obligatory sling wear) and found significant improvement in active range of motion at 6 weeks and 3 months postoperatively compared with standard physical therapy [1]. So accelerated PT gave good results. There were no higher rates of retear among the cohort.

1. McBroom TJ., et al. “Accelerated versus standard physical therapy in patients with transtendinous rotator cuff repair: a propensity-matched cohort study”. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery6S (2022): S123-S130.
2. Tiryaki P., et al. “Effectiveness of exercises with electromyographic biofeedback in conservative treatment of massive rotator cuff tears: a randomized controlled study”. American Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 5 (2023): 419-426.
3. van der Stok J., et al. “Does capsular distension and a short period of countertraction improve outcome following manipulation under anesthesia for the treatment of primary adhesive capsulitis of the glenohumeral joint?” Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery 4 (2022): 772-781.