Arthroscopic versus mini-open rotator cuff repair: a comprehensive review and meta-analysis.
BACKGROUND
Controversy remains regarding the results of all arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs compared with the mini-open approach. The purpose of this study was to perform a comprehensive literature search and meta-analysis of clinical trials comparing the results of arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs and mini-open rotator cuff repairs.


OBJECTIVE
There is no difference between the clinical results obtained from all arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs compared with mini-open repairs.


METHODS
Meta-analysis.


METHODS
A computerized search of articles published between 1966 and July 2006 was performed using MEDLINE and PubMed. Additionally, a search of abstracts from 4 major annual meetings each held between 2000 and 2005 was performed to identify Level I to III studies comparing the results of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and mini-open repair. Studies that included follow-up of an average of over 2 years and a minimum of 1 year and included the use of 1 of 4 validated functional outcome scores used to study shoulder injuries were included in the present meta-analysis. All outcome scores were converted to a 100-point scale to allow for outcome comparison.


RESULTS
Five studies that met the inclusion criteria were identified. There was no difference in functional outcome scores or complications between the arthroscopic and mini-open repair groups.


CONCLUSIONS
Based on current literature, there was no difference in outcomes between the arthroscopic and mini-open rotator cuff repair techniques.
Morse
Kenneth
K
Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA.
Davis
A David
AD
Afra
Robert
R
Kaye
Elizabeth Krall
EK
Schepsis
Anthony
A
Voloshin
Ilya
I