Operative Versus Non-operative Management of Rotator Cuff Tear

Overview

This study aims at determining the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of surgical management of full-thickness rotator cuff tears compared to conservative treatment. The research setting is prospective, randomised, and controlled. The aim of the study is to search out evidence based data of indications for rotator cuff repair. The investigators also aim at offering patients the most efficient and effective treatment and reduce the number of operations that do not have sufficient effectiveness. The data obtained will facilitate developing guidelines for referrals to a specialist when rotator cuff tear is suspected. The investigators hypothesize that there are subgroups of patients suffering from rotator cuff tears that benefit from surgery whereas other subgroups are best treated conservatively.

Subgroup analyses: * age * sex * duration of symptoms * presence of trauma before symptoms * size of tear * degenerative findings * other findings in MRI or arthroscopy * type of operation * co-morbidities * occupation * pain (VAS) * objective shoulder function * activities of daily living

Conditions

Interventions