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Rotator cuff tear — SCE Rheumatology MCQ

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ModerateOsteoarthritis and soft tissue rheumatologyRotator cuff tearSCE Rheumatology

A 59-year-old man with shoulder pain has a painful arc, weakness of abduction and external rotation, and night pain after lifting a heavy box. Passive movement is near full; ultrasound shows a full-thickness supraspinatus tear with retraction. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: E — Specialist assessment for rotator-cuff repair

A traumatic full-thickness rotator cuff tear with weakness and retraction warrants specialist shoulder assessment, particularly in an active patient. Passive movement being preserved helps distinguish it from adhesive capsulitis. Repeated steroid injections may worsen tendon quality and should not replace appropriate referral.

Reference: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/conditions-and-diseases/musculoskeletal-conditions