Partial Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears: Non-operative Treatment

Description

In this presentation, Ian Lo discusses the prevalence and treatment options for partial thickness rotator cuff tears, particularly in athletes. He acknowledges the BOSTAA and program committee for their invitation to speak from Canada. Lo reveals that partial thickness tears are significantly more common than full thickness tears, with limited literature available on the former, especially in athletic contexts. He emphasizes that non-operative treatments, including physical therapy and home exercise programs, can be beneficial, successfully treating around 50% of cases, especially those with certain characteristics such as an atraumatic onset and a tear thickness of less than 50%. The presentation also reviews studies showing the long-term outcomes of patients treated non-operatively and discusses ongoing research regarding biological treatments like PRP and their potential benefits over traditional approaches. Lo highlights that while most patients show improvement, the factors influencing success rates and tear progression are critical for determining the appropriate management path for individuals.

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