[Classification of rotator cuff tears].

Abstract

Classification of rotator cuff tears may yield useful information on diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and evaluation of treatment results. The shape, localization, etiology, size, topography, pathology, and history of rotator cuff tears, together with the involvement of specific tendons in the occurrence of a tear may be of great value in the hand of expert interpreters. This article intends to give a brief description of rotator cuff tears by way of illustration.