Exploring the Long-Term Outcomes of Arthroscopic Procedures for Rotator Cuff Repair: Assessing the Factors Contributing to Surgical Success and Challenges in Preventing Recurrence
1Dr Muhammad Asim Munir Qureshi, 2Taimoor Ghori, 3Nazeen Tabassum, 4Mohib Ali, 5Isma Abbas, 6Faiza Maqsood,
Submission: 20 December 2025 | Acceptance: 15 January 2026 | Publication: 08 February 2026
1Senior Registrar,Lahore General Hospital, Lahore.
2UHS, Lahore
3UHS, Lahore
4PIMS, Islamabad
5PIMS, Islamabad
6PIMS, Islamabad
Abstract
Background:
Rotator cuff tears are a prevalent cause of shoulder dysfunction, particularly among older adults and physically active individuals. Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair or ARCR has gained importance as the preferred surgical approach due to its minimally intrusive nature and improved short-term outcomes. However, long-term duration and the risk of recurrence continue to pose out the challenges in clinical practices.
Objective:
This study aims to evaluate the long-term outcomes of ACR and identify key factors contributing to surgical success and tear recurrence over a follow-up period of at least five years.
Methods:
A retrospective cohort of 133 patients who underwent ARCR between 2011 and 2018 was analyzed. Patient demographics, tear characteristics, surgical techniques, and rehabilitation adheres which were assessed. Functional outcomes were measured using the Constant-Morley Score and UCLA Shoulder
Rating Scale: Tear recurrence was confirmed via postoperative imaging in symptomatic patients.
Results:
At a mean follow-up of 6.4 years, 79% of patients reported good to excellent outcomes. The overall recurrence rate was 23%, with higher rates associated with large or massive tears, smoking, diabetes, and poor rehabilitation completion. Double-row repairs and biological terms were associated with improved outcomes.
Keywords: rehabilitation, retrospective study, patients, biological terms.