Introduction Partial articular sided rotator cuff tears are described as being a common cause of shoulder pain and to have a significant impact of patient quality of life. The natural history of partial articular supraspinatus tendon avulsion lesions is not clearly defined and there is limited evidence to determine optimal management. Aims To perform a systematic review of the literature regarding the evidence for partial articular supraspinatus tendon avulsion repair and to determine whether there is any difference between operative and non-operatively managed patients. Methods Conventional and grey literature were searched with defined terms to identify studies in human adults concerning management of partial articular sided supraspinatus avulsions. Results Out of 86 papers identified by the search terms, 28 were deemed eligible for review including 1966 shoulders. 4/28 papers were of level I–II evidence but all were comparing techniques. 4/28 papers were biomechanical cadaveric studies, assessing strength of repair and effect on stability. The remaining 20 studies were level IV–V evidence and consisted of case series and technical notes identifying varying techniques of repair and their outcomes. Conclusion Current literature suggests that all techniques used to repair partial articular supraspinatus tendon avulsion lesions give increased functional scores and reduced pain. However, this represents a heterogeneous group of patients with variable degrees of tear and is not reproducible. There are limited controlled studies to determine whether partial articular supraspinatus tendon avulsion lesions require repair. Current classification systems represent a single plane and are open to user variation. No evidence exists to determine which tears are stable and which may progress.

Our objective was to improve documentation and patient safety in a major trauma centre.A retrospective audit was undertaken in March 2014. Ward round entries for each orthopaedic patients on three dates were assessed against standards and analysed. The audit was repeated in April 2014, and again in August 2014.Thorough documentation is paramount in a major trauma centre. It forms a useful record of the patients hospital stay, is a legal document and is highlighted in national guidelines. It provides a basis for good handover, ensuring continuation of care and maintaining patient safety. Resultant poor compliance with Royal College guidelines in the initial audit led to the production of a new electronic based note keeping system. A meeting was held with all staff prior to introduction.Our initial results gained 75 entries, and none showed full compliance. Mean compliance per entry was 59% (0–81%). The second attempt gained 90 entries, with 30 from the weekend. Mean compliance per entry 97%. Third attempt received 61 entries, with 27 from the weekend. Mean compliance was 96%, meaning that the improvement was being maintained.Recent distressing reports regarding patient highlighted the importance of patient. Our initial audit proved there were many areas lacking in our documentation and improvement was necessary. Prior to introducing electronic systems, the implemented change has produced improvement in documentation, and provides a useful handover tool for staff.