Abstract
In cases of rotator cuff tear, the scapuro-humeral rhythm is usually disturbed. This paper presents an analysis of the scapulo-humeral rhythm of patients with rotator cuff tear during arm elevation through pre and post operational comparisons.
Nine patients operated with McLaughlin method were examined before operation, after operation, and at the other side. Their ages ranged from 48 to 78 years old. Patients were asked to elevate both arms in the scapular plane in front of the roentgenofluoscopy. The movements were recorded on a video recorder and three landmarks of the scapula were determined, after which three dimensional motion of the scapula was analyzed using a micro-computer. The recording was done immediately before and after operation from 4 months to 2 years and 10 months.
There were no significant differences in the medially tilting angle and upward rotation angle before and after operation. However, the downward tilting angle in the maximum elevated position after operation was smaller than that before operation, and similar to the angle of the normal side.
