The influence of different footprint preparation techniques on tissue regeneration in rotator cuff repair in an animal model.

Introduction: Rotator cuff tears are common diseases of the upper extremity. There are no recommendations to the surgeon on how to prepare the footprint to ensure optimal tendon-to-bone healing. However, biologic augmentation using stem cells and growth factors is considered to encourage the healing process of the tendon.

Does footprint preparation influence tendon-to-bone healing after rotator cuff repair in an animal model?

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of footprint spongialization and radiofrequency ablation on rotator cuff repair outcomes compared with an untreated group in a rat model.

Methods: We randomly assigned 189 Sprague-Dawley rats to either a spongialization, radiofrequency ablation, or untreated group. After separation of the supraspinatus tendon from the greater tubercle, the footprint was prepared by removing the cortical bone with a burr (spongialization), was prepared by ablating soft tissue with a radiofrequency ablation device, or was left unaltered (untreated).