Are there significant differences in the clinical outcomes following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair which are reported in retrospective compared with prospective studies?

Significantly higher re-tear rates have been reported after ARCR in prospective studies rather than in retrospective studies. This was probably due to improved imaging and follow-up protocols used in prospective studies. However, revision rates remain low in both designs of study, suggesting that re-tears are usually asymptomatic. Surgeons should consider these findings when counselling patients who are considering undergoing an ARCR.