[Rotator cuff rupture].

The rotator cuff is the complex of four muscles that arise from the scapula; supscapularis, supraspinatus, infraspinatus and teres minor. The long head of the biceps tendon may be considered a functional part of the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff is key structure of the shoulder which gives dynamic stability and movements. Rotator cuff tears my occur as consequence of impingement syndrome or degenerative changes. Most tears occur in the supraspinatus tendon. The patients are usually older than 40 years. On clinical examination there is weakness of abducation and external rotation of the arm. Open or arthroscopic repair should be performed in active individuals.