Not all Rowe scores are the same! Which Rowe score do you use?

BackgroundThe Rowe score is an internationally recognized scoring system for the postoperative assessment of Bankart repairs; however, there are 4 different Rowe score versions. All 4 versions are used in parallel and results are sometimes published without any information about the Rowe score version used. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to assess the correlation and agreement of the various Rowe score versions.MethodSixty-two patients were scheduled for follow-up examination after arthroscopic Bankart repair. All 4 Rowe score versions were used. The results of all Rowe scores were compared and correlation and agreement evaluated.ResultThe evaluation revealed significant differences. The highest mean score was observed in the 1988 Rowe score (Ø 88.7 points) and the lowest mean score in the 1981 Rowe score (Ø 73.6 points).ConclusionNot all Rowe scores are the same! Therefore, the used Rowe score should always be indicated. It would be desirable to establish one single Rowe score.Level of evidenceLevel 3; Diagnostic study.