Criteria

Cofield classification of rotator cuff tears[1]

  • Small <1 cm

  • Medium 1-3 cm

  • Large 3-5 cm

  • Massive >5 cm

In addition to size of tear, diagnostic criteria may include:

Tendons involved

Small and medium-sized tears can be defined as involving 1 tendon, and large and massive tears as involving ≥2 tendons. Supraspinatus involvement is most common, followed by infraspinatus, then subscapularis, and least frequently teres minor. Massive tears involving supraspinatus and infraspinatus together, or supraspinatus and subscapularis together, are not uncommon.

Thickness of tear

Can be partial thickness (commonly articular-sided but also bursal-sided) or full thickness.

Acute or chronic

Tears are generally considered acute if they are identified within 6 weeks of a significant known trauma, with alteration in shoulder function and associated pain.

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