To compare the results in patients with a complete repair, partial repair, and subacromial decompression and debridement of a massive rotator cuff tear.

Twenty-eight cases, who underwent surgery for massive rotator cuff tears with a minimum follow-up of 2 years, were reviewed. Group A with a complete repair comprised of 16 cases, group B with partial repair comprised of 5, and group C with only debridement comprised of 7. The results were assessed using the UCLA shoulder rating scale.

The pain scores improved from 2.4 preoperatively to 8.5 points postoperatively in group A, 2.2 to 8.2 in group B, and 2.4 to 8 in group C. The active forward flexion improved from 86° to 149° in group A, 82° to 140° in group B, and 91° to 121° in group C. Overall, 13 cases (81%) from group A, 4 cases (80%) from group B, and 4 cases (57%) from group C had satisfactory results.

The patients, who failed to achieve a repair, and received debridement or subacromial decompression instead demonstrated pain relief with poor restoration of their function. However, there was a favorable outcome in the patients with a partial repair because the complete repair could not be done. In conclusion, where possible, it is better to repair massive rotator cuff tears surgically.