Open Rotator Cuff Repair

Open rotator cuff repair remains the gold standard for addressing large, retracted rotator cuff tears. Despite advances in arthroscopic techniques, to date, there is a lack of consistent evidence that one technique is superior. We review anatomical considerations in rotator cuff tear development as well as clinical examination and useful investigations. Open approach to rotator cuff repair is used in combination with arthroscopic assessment and preparation. Indications for an open approach relate to size, mobility, and configuration of the tear. The open approach to cuff repair cannot compensate for irreparable, chronic, immobile tears. In this article, we review the technical considerations of open rotator cuff repair.