A Combined Rip-Stop and Double-Pulley Technique in Arthroscopic Suture-Bridge Repair

Abstract

Rotator cuff tear is one of the most common upper-extremity pathologies and often requires repair. The pursuit of optimal arthroscopic rotator cuff repair has spurred numerous technical innovations and stitch-pattern refinements. First, the double-pulley construct can increase tendon-bone compression and provide a joint seal. Second, the rip-stop configuration can reduce the possibility of tendon cut-through and improve the biomechanical properties of the fixation. Thus, an alternative method is introduced by incorporating both techniques simultaneously into arthroscopic suture-bridge repair, in which the medial double-pulley construct assumes the function of a rip-stop. This method may improve the biology of tendon healing and reduce the retear rate after rotator cuff repair.