Iatrogenic glenoid fracture after brisement manipulation for the stiffness of shoulder in patients with rotator cuff tear

In combined stiffness with rotator cuff tear, the brisement manipulation with or without capsular release has been more common procedure prior to the rotator cuff repair. It is known to be relatively safe and easy procedure with rare complications. However, the present authors found the iatrogenic fracture of anteroinferior portion of glenoid after brisement manipulation during the arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. The patient was followed up with the routine postoperative protocol for rotator cuff repair, which was composed of 4 weeks of protection with abduction brace, passive and active assisted range of motion exercise afterward, and progressive strengthening exercise. Two years after surgery, the patient showed improved clinical score and healing of fracture fragment. However, iatrogenic glenoid fracture should be kept in mind when the brisement manipulation is performed during arthroscopic surgery.