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Published in: International Orthopaedics 6/2017

01-06-2017 | Original Paper

Arthroscopic reduction and fixation for displaced greater tuberosity fractures using the modified suture-bridge technique

Authors: RenLong Li, Ming Cai, Kun Tao

Published in: International Orthopaedics | Issue 6/2017

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Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the early clinical outcomes of arthroscopic treatment of avulsion or comminuted fractures of the greater tuberosity (GT) using a modified suture-bridge technique.

Methods

Between February 2013 and November 2015, 14 patients with displaced or comminuted fractures of GT were arthroscopically treated using a modified suturebridge technique. Displacement of the GT fragments was > 3 mm in any plane. An analysis of follow-up results including the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder scale; the shoulder index of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES); the simple shoulder test (SST); and shoulder range of motion (ROM), is presented.

Results

Mean duration of follow up is 18.9 months (range, 6–30). Mean age of patients was 62.9 years (range, 49–74). Postoperatively, the outcomes were rated as excellent, good and fair in two, 11 and one patient, respectively based on the UCLA score. At the most recent follow-up, the average UCLA score increased to 32 points, the ASES score increased to 97.5 points, and the SST score increased to 11 points. Average forward flexion was 153.6°, average abduction was 158.6°, average external rotation in the neutral position was 38.6°, and internal rotation increased to the 12th thoracic vertebral level.

Conclusion

Early follow-up outcomes of the arthroscopic modified suture-bridge technique used for avulsion or comminuted GT fractures are promising. The technique can be used as one of the therapeutic modalities for GT fractures.
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Metadata
Title
Arthroscopic reduction and fixation for displaced greater tuberosity fractures using the modified suture-bridge technique
Authors
RenLong Li
Ming Cai
Kun Tao
Publication date
01-06-2017
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
International Orthopaedics / Issue 6/2017
Print ISSN: 0341-2695
Electronic ISSN: 1432-5195
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-017-3461-y

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