APEX Shoulder Mastering Surgical Techniques for Clinical Success-Double Row RCR

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Rob Hartzler from TSAOG Orthopedics presents on linked double row rotator cuff repair, emphasizing its technical execution, rationale, and clinical indications. He describes a case of a 49-year-old woman with a large supraspinatus tear who benefited from this repair approach. The procedure prioritizes maximizing visualization, often using lateral positioning and controlled fluid management to enhance the surgical field. Key steps include thorough soft tissue removal, bone preparation, tear pattern assessment, and precise suture placement lateral to the musculotendinous junction to avoid failure. Linked double row repairs use multiple anchors tied medially and anchored laterally, creating a self-reinforcing construct that improves biomechanical strength and healing rates, particularly in large or massive tears. While single row repairs remain valid for some cases due to cost and simplicity, linked double row repairs are preferred for larger tears, patients with compliance issues, or significant dysfunction. Hartzler advocates this method for better healing, strength restoration, and potentially faster functional recovery.

Asset Caption

Robert Hartzler, MD

Keywords

linked double row rotator cuff repair

rotator cuff tear

supraspinatus tear

biomechanical strength

arthroscopic surgical technique