Clinical outcome of arthroscopic SLAP repair: conventional vertical knot versus knotless horizontal mattress sutures

Arthroscopic repair of type II superior labrum anterior to posterior (SLAP) tears yields variable results. In this study, the clinical outcomes of arthroscopic knotless horizontal mattress repair were compared to those of conventional vertical knot repair.

Forty-six patients treated arthroscopically for isolated SLAP lesions were assessed. Forty-one of those patients underwent follow-up evaluations for a minimum of 2 years: 21 received vertical knot (group 1), while 20 received horizontal mattress (group 2). In group 1, an anchor was inserted at the superior glenoid. After relaying the sutures, knotting over the labral tissue was performed. In group 2, two strands were passed through the labrum and fixed into the glenoid with a bioabsorbable knotless anchor. Functional scores were evaluated preoperatively and at the final follow-up assessment. A visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain and range of motion (ROM) were assessed preoperatively, 2 months postoperatively and at the last follow-up visit.

There were no significant differences in functional scores between groups (n.s.). However, external rotation at the side, internal rotation at abduction and total ROM were better in group 2 at the last follow-up visit. At 2 months postoperatively, the VAS for pain and ROM of internal rotation at abduction were better in group 2.

At the final assessment, there were no significant differences in functional scores between the two groups. However, external rotation at the side, internal rotation at abduction and total ROM were better in group 2.

Case–control study, Level III.