The convalescence of those cases with rotator cuff tears treated by McLaughlin' s method were investigated. The results of the operation were evaluated and problems during treatment were discussed.
29 cases (29 shoulders) with rotator cuff tears were operated on. There were 21 men and 8 women aged from 45 to 62 years (average 58.6 years). The 29 cases consisted of 6 small tears,9 medium tears,6 large tears and 8 massive tears. The follow up period was from 1 year to 8 years and 5 months (average 3 years and 7 months). Our indication of operative treatment is based on 3 points. They are 1. under 65 years old,2. the patient's social background (job, ADL, etc.) and 3. severe shoulder pain. The clinical results were evaluated using the JOA score system and questionnaires on the patients satisfaction and problems they had during treatment.
The average JOA score improved from 48.5 to 91.6 points.89% of the patients returned to their previous jobs. However,65% of the patients had expected to return to their jobs earlier than they actualy did.73% of the patients answered that the postoperative exercises had been hard.
McLaughlin's method based on our qualified indication is useful for rotator cuff tears. But for massive tears, if tight sutures are required, another method should be selected. In order to get the patient's good satisfaction, postoperative care should contain excercises and there should be enough informed consent
