We examined biopsy specimens obtained during surgery on 115 patients with complete rotator cuff rupture. The vascularised connective tissue covering the area of rupture and the proliferating cells in the fragmented tendons reflected more of the features of repair than of degeneration and necrosis. The main source of this fibrovascular tissue was the wall of the subacromial bursa. These features clearly indicated a vigorous reparative response which might play an important role in tendon reconstitution and remodelling. We therefore suggest that extensive debridement along with subtotal bursectomy, commonly practised during surgical repair

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The effects of immobilization on the function of the glenohumeral joint and its capsule were investigated in eight beagle dogs. One foreleg of each animal was immobilized in a spica cast, and the dogs were euthanized after 4,8, 12, and 16 weeks of immobilization in groups of two. The contralateral limb and the forelegs of two normal beagles were used as controls. At the time of euthanasia, the range of motion, intraarticular filling volume during passive movements of the joint, and intraarticular filling volume to rupture the capsule were measured. The synovium, including the capsule and the subscapular bursa, were examined histologically. In the immobilized limb, there was progressive restriction in the range of motion with increases in intraarticular pressure, and the filling volume that was ~

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