Rotator Cuff Repair in the Lateral Decubitus Position
Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is commonly performed by orthopaedic surgeons. With the main goals of restoring function and alleviating pain, rotator cuff repair is associated with good outcomes in appropriately indicated patients. Although many surgeons perform rotator cuff repair with the patient in the beach-chair position, the lateral decubitus position also can be used. This video shows a safe, reproducible technique for rotator cuff repair with the patient in the lateral decubitus position. The video discusses pearls and pitfalls regarding rotator cuff repair in the lateral decubitus position, including how to attain proper visualization and how to optimize portal placement. Technical pearls are discussed, and potential pitfalls and strategies to mitigate these issues are highlighted. A postoperative protocol is presented, and the authors’ clinical outcomes are discussed.