The incidence of rupture of rotator cuff tendons which are located around shoulder to give it unique rotational movements increases with age. Acute or repetitive trauma plays a role in etiology. Although the tendon of the long head of biceps muscle is not counted in this group, it is functionally included and its lesions are frequently encountered together.

The shoulder joint could only provide a stable fulcrum of movement if there is a balance of force couples in coronal and transvers planes. When this balance of force couples are corrupted by a massive rotator cuff tear, shoulder joint could not function as a fulcrum of motion and subsequently active movement is lost. For this reason, rotator cuff tears must be repaired to re-establish the balance of force couples.

If pain and functional loss is distinctive, rotator cuff rupture should be repaired to provide adequate function. Either open or arthroscopic technique can be used for treatment. In open technique, either full open or mini open procedure can be prefered. Arthroscopic technique needs experience but it is more advantageous than open technique in viewing the rupture. Repairing procedure varies according to rupture type, patient, and tissue quality.