student research day - Case Western Reserve University School of ...

Jason Toy
Isolated Arthroscopic Rotator Interval Closure for Shoulder Instability
Jason Toy, Michael K. Shindle, MD, Samuel P. Robinson, MD, Seth C. Gamradt, MD, Russell F. Warren, MD
Department of Orthopedic Surgery
Hospital for Special Surgery
Purpose: A rotator interval closure is a well described technique that can be useful as an adjunct to arthroscopic
stabilizations. We have previously described an open technique with isolated closures of rotator interval defects
for shoulder instability. Our hypothesis is that, in appropriately selected patients with mild glenohumeral
instability, an isolated arthroscopic rotator interval closure can improve stability, relieve pain, and obviate the need
for a standard arthroscopic plication or open capsular shift.
Methods: A retrospective review was performed for all patients that underwent arthroscopic shoulder surgery by
the senior author at one institution over a two year period. Ten patients were identified that had an isolated
arthroscopic closure of the rotator interval.
Results: Seven patients (average age, 24.4 years) were evaluated at a mean follow-up of 3.6 years range (2.1 to
4.1). All patients initially presented with pain and had grade 1 or 2 anterior and inferior instability. The average
pre-operative L’Insalata score was 58.5 and post-operative was 88.6 (p-value