SupraScapular Cuff Study: Assessing the Effects of Size and Type of Rotator Cuff Tear on Suprascapular Nerve Function

SupraScapular Cuff Study: Assessing the Effects of Size and Type of Rotator Cuff Tear on Suprascapular Nerve Function

The primary objective of the study is to determine in adult patients with a rotator cuff tear, what size and pattern of rotator cuff tear would result in damage to the suprascapular nerve.

The secondary objectives are

1. To determine if an injured suprascapular nerve can recover if the rotator cuff tear is surgically repaired.
2. To determine if there is a limit of retraction before the suprascapular nerve is irreversibly damaged.
3. To determine factors that are protective against SSN injury.
4. Can the patient data gathered be used to optimise operative procedures.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All patients age ≥18 years presenting to a UHNM shoulder clinic with a confirmed diagnosis of a rotator cuff tear (affecting one or both shoulders).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Bony pathology (such as significant shoulder arthritis that would exclude isolated rotator cuff repair)
• Grossly abnormal shoulder anatomy
• Motor Neurone Disease
• Cervical cord disease affecting the SSN nerve roots
• Patients unable to undergo MRI scan
• Previous surgery at the affected glenohumeral joint
• Patients unable to tolerate NCS
• Acute fracture affecting the glenohumeral joint
• Recent glenohumeral joint dislocation (past 12 months)
• Patients unable or unwilling to give full informed consent
• Patients unable or unwilling to comply with the study procedures