Arthroscopic release and repair of concomitant shoulder stiffness and cuff tear

Purpose
The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of arthroscopic capsular release and rotator cuff repair as one-stage treatment for cases with concomitant shoulder stiffness and cuff tear.
Patients and methods
One-stage arthroscopic capsular release with rotator cuff repair was performed in 56 patients. All patients were evaluated at a minimum 2-year follow-up with a visual analog scale score for pain, range of motion, and the Constant and University of California at Los Angeles scores for clinical assessment.
Results
At the final follow-up, the mean visual analog scale score improved significantly to 1.7±0.98 points postoperatively (<0.01). Statistically significant improvements were achieved in all motions postoperatively; the mean passive forward flexion was 176° (range: 165°–180°), whereas abduction was 172° (range: 162°–180°). External rotation at the side was 58° (range: 44°–68°), external rotation in 90° abduction was 94° (range: 80°–115°), and internal rotation in 90° abduction was 36° (range: 25°–40°). Furthermore, the Constant and University of California at Los Angeles scores showed statistically significant improvement postoperatively. Overall, 52 (93%) of the 56 shoulders were considered by the patients to be much better or better as a result of the operation.
Conclusion
The arthroscopic tackling of concomitant shoulder stiffness and cuff tear with one-stage capsular release and repair of torn rotator cuff showed satisfactory results and fastened the return to normal activities. Moreover, addition of the L-shaped posterior capsular release improved the postoperative internal rotation range of motion. Level of Evidence: Level III case–control study.