LactoSorb plates for rotator cuff repair.
OBJECTIVE
We present our preliminary studies using LactoSorb plates (Lorenz/Biomet, Warsaw, IN) for rotator cuff repair in humans. The use and application of this plate are described as an adjunct to prevent hole migration in trough-tunnel repairs of rotator cuff tears.


METHODS
Fifty patients with rotator cuff tears documented by magnetic resonance imaging underwent arthroscopic subacromial decompression followed by a mini-open repair of the rotator cuff. Tears were repaired using a trough and tunnel technique, horizontal mattress sutures, and a standard LactoSorb plate. Follow-up was obtained on 45 patients, 26 male and 19 female, with an average age of 61.6 years. The patients were followed-up and evaluated at 5 days, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and a minimum of 1 year postoperatively. All surgeries were performed by the same surgeon and followed a similar rehabilitation protocol.


RESULTS
There were 89% excellent results, 9% good results, and 2% fair results. There were no poor results. No significant swelling, tenderness, or erythema was noted at the operative site, and there were no infections. Postoperative radiographs at 3, 6, and 12 months did not show any bone erosion. No repeat surgical procedures were necessary.


CONCLUSIONS
The results of our study support the use of LactoSorb bioabsorbable plates in the repair of rotator cuff tears to prevent hole migration and potentially poor results or failures of repairs. The LactoSorb plate appears to maintain its strength during the healing period of the repair and does not elicit any clinically noticeable inflammatory process.
Kessler
Kevin J
KJ
Imperial Point Medical Center, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA.
Bullens-Borrow
Amy E
AE
Zisholtz
Jesse
J
D020341:Absorbable Implants; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001182:Arthroscopy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D019344:Lactic Acid / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011100:Polyglycolic Acid / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000077182:Polylactic Acid-Polyglycolic Acid Copolymer; D011108:Polymers / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D017006:Rotator Cuff / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D000070636:Rotator Cuff Injuries; D013536:Suture Techniques; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D011108:Polymers; D000077182:Polylactic Acid-Polyglycolic Acid Copolymer; D011100:Polyglycolic Acid; D019344:Lactic Acid