What tear size has the highest re-tear rate after repair?

Massive tears (>5 cm) involving 3+ tendons: re-tear rate 40-70% at 2 years despite repair. Large tears (3-5 cm): re-tear rate 20-40%. Small tears (<1 cm): re-tear rate 10-15%. Fatty infiltration (Goutallier 3-4) doubles re-tear risk.

What is Goutallier staging?

MRI or CT-based fatty infiltration in rotator cuff muscles: Stage 0 = normal. Stage 1 = fatty streaks. Stage 2 = 50% fat. Stage 3-4 = irreversible, poor prognosis for repair.

When is reverse shoulder arthroplasty preferred over repair?

Massive irreparable tear with pseudoparalysis (inability to actively elevate arm despite passive range), Goutallier 3-4, and arthropathy indicates reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA). rTSA restores overhead function via deltoid-based mechanism.

Rotator Cuff Tear Size Classification and Repair Prognosis

Classify rotator cuff tears by size (small <1 cm, medium 1-3 cm, large 3-5 cm, massive >5 cm) and fatty infiltration (Goutallier grade 0-4) to predict repair integrity and functional outcome. Massive tears with Goutallier 3-4 have poor repair prognosis.

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Rotator Cuff Tear Size Classification and Repair Prognosis

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Frequently Asked Questions

What tear size has the highest re-tear rate after repair?

What is Goutallier staging?

When is reverse shoulder arthroplasty preferred over repair?