Clinical results after open gluteus medius repair in single-row technique.

PURPOSE: The aim of this retrospective study is to present the clinical results of open repair of gluteus medius and gluteus minimus tendon tears using the single-row suture anchor technique.

METHODS: This retrospective study included 43 participants after open repair of the abductor tendon of the hip joint using a single-row suture anchor technique. Clinical outcome parameters were assessed by VAS (0-10), gait safety (1 = absolutely safe gait without assistive devices - 10 = gait not possible), SHV (0-100%), mHHS, WOMAC, and gluteal muscle strength status from single-leg stance and against gravity.

RESULTS: Thirty-two female and 11 male subjects with an average age of 65.2 years were included in this study. Overall, a significant decrease in pain (VAS 3.2) and improvement in joint function is observed after a period of 22.3 months. The mHHS reached 61.9 points, WOMAC 28.2, SHV 69.8% and gait stability measured by the VAS reached 3.4. 58.1% of the participants reported not having Trendelenburg, while 4% could not control the single leg stance.

CONCLUSIONS: The present study shows that single row repair for open glutueus medius refixation indicates limited clinical results. Although there was an improvement in clinical outcome. The majority of subjects continued to report limiting symptoms.