Arthroscopic Technique for Transfragment Fixation of the Supraspinatus Intratendinous Footprint Avulsion

Abstract

We present an arthroscopic fixation technique for a rare lesion of the rotator cuff. The lesion involves nondisplaced intratendinous avulsion of the supraspinatus footprint with an intact bridge of the supraspinatus tendon on the articular and bursal sides. The surgical technique involves the use of arthroscopic transfragment fixation with a single double-loaded suture anchor which was placed within the avulsed fragment bed. At 3 months from surgery, radiographic healing of the fracture was noted, with full recovery of daily activities and almost complete active range of motion confirmed with improvement of the Oxford Shoulder Score. This technique allows optimal reconstruction of normal footprint anatomy and creates a waterproof reduction of the fragment, protecting the fracture site from synovial fluid.