RESUMO
PURPOSE: To compare the clinical features of partial thickness rotator cuff tears according to location of the tear and to classify the partial thickness rotator cuff tears based on arthroscopic findings. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study evaluated 138 patients who were arthroscpically proven to be partial thickness rotator cuff tears. Three groups were identified; 56 in the articular side tear, 58 in the bursal side tear, 24 in the both sides tear. The comparison included preoperative clinical features such as pain, range of motion and impingement sign. The partial thickness rotator cuff tears were classified according to the arthroscopic findings. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in the clinical features between articular, bursal and both sides tears. Partial thickness rotator cuff tear can be divided into 5 groups. Type I (n=41): fraying or fibrillation on surface of the cuff. Type II (n=35): fiber disruptions with or without displacement. Type III (n=38): flap tear or fragmentation. Type IV (n=16): both articular and bursal side tears without communications. Type V (n=8): impending a full thickness tear. CONCLUSION: It is difficult to differentiate the clinical features based on the physical examinations according to the locations of tears. Newly designed classification may help in deternmining the appropriate arthroscopic treatment of a partial thickness rotator cuff tear.