We evaluate the possibility of the anatomical repair of massive rotator cuff tear and review the clinical results.

From March 1995 to June 1999, twenty-six cases of massive rotaor cuff tear were reviewed with minimal followup of one year. The clinical results were evaluated using ASES (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons) score.

Twenty two cases (85%) showed satisfactory results, 8 excellent results (31%) and 14 good results (54%). There were four cases (15%) of unsatisfactory results, two cases of fair and two cases of poor results. Mean value of the ASES score increased from 41 (14-60) points to 83 (46-98) points. Mean value of the increased score was 42 (20-76) points. There were no cases of functional deterioration or revision surgery.

Anatomical repair was considered to be practically possible in the majority of cases of massive rotator cuff tear as an initial treatment.