Small-Sized Rotator Cuff Tears: Is Surgery Always Indicated?
- Author:
Young Sook PARK
1
Author Information
- Publication Type:Review Article
- From: Clinical Pain 2025;24(1):47-50
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
- Abstract: Rotator cuff tears represent a significant cause of shoulder pain, impacting patient quality of life and contributing to substantial socioeconomic burden. Treatment strategies, particularly for small-sized tears, remain a subject of ongoing debate, with considerations including tear size, patient demographics, and functional demands. This review aims to synthesize and critically analyze existing literature to address the clinical question: ‘Is surgical intervention invariably necessary for small-sized rotator cuff tears?’ Specifically, this review will examine the natural history of small-sized rotator cuff tears, evaluate the methodologies and outcomes of both conservative and surgical treatment modalities, and delineate the factors influencing treatment decision-making.Through this comprehensive analysis, the author intends to facilitate the development of more evidence-based and individualized treatment plans for patients presenting with small-sized rotator cuff tears, ultimately optimizing patient outcomes.
