The Use of an Intra-Articular Depth Guide in the Measurement of Partial Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears

Figure 2

Schematic diagram and corresponding arthroscopic photo (of a right shoulder from a posterior glenohumeral portal) demonstrating the inner metallic sleeve penetrating the intact portion of the rotator cuff laterally at the area of greatest tendon involvement. The “needle tipped” portion of the intra-articular depth guide is inserted tangential to the bone bed and placed adjacent to the articular cartilage. (Note: all arthroscopic photos are oriented in the beach chair position).