[Reconstruction technics for ruptured rotator cuff].

The principal signs for the diagnosis of a ruptured rotator sheath are a painful arch and painful, restricted movement of the shoulder joint. The diagnosis is confirmed by arthrography. Surgical reconstruction is indicated only if prior conservative treatment has been unsuccessful. A variety of approaches to the rotator sheath are advocated. Of these, the posterior-superior incision described by Debeyre et al. is particularly worthy of consideration. This approach is especially suitable for more extensive ruptures. It is described here with modifications, including the various fixation methods used for rupture of the rotator sheaths in the authors' own patients. The results obtained by the authors are classified and compared with opinions expressed in the literature. It is emphasized that the procedure described is particularly suitable for reconstruction of ruptured rotator sheaths.