Decision-Making for Managing Complex Rotator Cuff Tears

There are multiple different treatment options available for the management of complex rotator cuff tears, and achieving a positive outcome in these challenging cases requires individualized treatment planning considering a variety of factors. Choosing the appropriate treatment begins with understanding the patient's goals of treatment, from pain relief to returning to a higher level of physical activity, and includes a thorough assessment of shoulder function on physical examination. Imaging studies provide valuable information regarding bony alignment and muscle quality that may help predict the likelihood of success or failure. Finally, an arthroscopic assessment is included as a component of the determination of the best treatment strategy.