Journal of the Korean Shoulder and Elbow Society  2009;12(2):221-225

Subclavian Portal Approach for Isolated Subscapularis Tendon Tear: Technical Note.

Chang Hyuk CHOI 1 ; Shin Kun KIM ; Il Woong CHANG ; Se Sik KIM

Affiliations

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Keywords

Subscapularis tendon; Subclavian portal; Suture anchor

Country

Republic of Korea

Language

Korean

Abstract

PURPOSE: For an isolated tear of the subscapularis tendon, the presented technique using a subclavian portal provides both a good angle for anchor placement and sufficient space for managing the upper portion of a subscapularis tendon tear. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The conventional method needs 2 additional portals for traction, debriding the footprint and anchor fixation for repair. The presented technique requires only an anterior portal for suture management and a subclavian portal without cannula for suture anchoring and placement of suture hooks. RESULTS: The two suture limbs of the anchor can be placed on the subscapularis tendon by the switching technique and these limbs are repaired sequentially. CONCLUSION: This technique is simple and reproducible and it can be applied to partial tears and minimally retracted subscapularis tears.