Evaluating the Impact of Anchor Parameters on Perianchor Cyst Formation, Tendon Healing, and Clinical Outcomes Following Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: Prospective Cohort Study
Evaluating the Impact of Anchor Parameters on Perianchor Cyst Formation, Tendon Healing, and Clinical Outcomes Following Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: Prospective Cohort Study
Perianchor cyst formation is frequently observed after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair; however, its clinical significance remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between anchor-related parameters and cyst formation, as well as their association with tendon healing and functional outcomes.
Perianchor cyst formation is a commonly observed finding on MRI after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, but its clinical significance is still unclear. These cysts may be related to mechanical factors such as stress distribution around the anchor, micromotion at the bone-anchor interface, and local bone quality.
Different anchor materials (soft, PEEK, and metal) may behave differently in terms of load transfer and biological response. In addition, surgical factors such as the number of anchors used, their insertion angle, and the repair technique (single-row vs. double-row) may influence the formation and size of peri-anchor cysts. However, the combined effects of these variables have not been clearly defined.
Another important question is whether they reflect impaired tendon healing. Their relationship with tendon integrity, commonly evaluated using the Sugaya classification, remains uncertain. Similarly, it is not clear whether cyst characteristics are associated with clinical outcomes such as pain, shoulder function, and range of motion.
This prospective cohort study aims to evaluate the relationship between anchor-related parameters and perianchor cyst formation in a systematic way. The study will specifically analyze how anchor type, number, insertion angle, and repair configuration affect cyst volume and pericystic fluid accumulation.
In addition, the study will investigate whether peri-anchor cysts are associated with tendon healing and clinical outcomes. MRI findings will be correlated with validated clinical scores (ASES, Constant-Murley, VAS) and range of motion measurements.
A multivariable statistical model will be used to assess both independent and combined (interaction) effects of surgical variables. The potential of peri-anchor cysts as a predictive imaging biomarker for tendon healing and clinical outcomes will also be evaluated.
Overall, this study aims to better understand the clinical importance of peri-anchor cysts and to provide guidance for optimizing anchor selection and surgical technique in rotator cuff repair.
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