Editorial Commentary: Outcomes in Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repairs: Are We Treating Patients or Radiographs?

Abstract

Rotator cuff tears are among the most common disorders of the shoulder girdle requiring surgical intervention, and it is no surprise that orthopaedic surgeons have searched far and wide for means to improve on rotator cuff repair outcomes. Radiological parameters such as the critical shoulder angle have recently emerged and have been associated with the presence of degenerative rotator cuff tears. However, their true impact on postoperative outcomes are still unclear. Although radiological parameters, because of their objectivity, will always remain a critical part of a surgeon's preoperative assessment, we must remember that ultimately we are treating patients and not radiographs.