The potential impact of this research is that it is a springboard for attempting to identify an exact genetic component for this injury. Dr. Tashjian and his colleagues are currently collecting blood samples for DNA analysis of patients with rotator cuff tears, which will be used later for various genetic analyses to determine the exact genetic component.

The results of this research have potential long term implications, including:

• Prevention
  • Knowing about a family history of rotator cuff disease can alert patients to take some precautionary measures to protect against their own injuries
  • Orthopaedic surgeons can initiate a shoulder stretching and strengthening program for patients to help limit the effects of possible future rotator cuff problems

While an exercise program would not completely prevent development of rotator cuff disease, it may limit the negative impact on shoulder function.

The research results can also lead to future treatment options. "Rotator cuff healing is often incomplete and identifying a possible genetic link to the disease may provide targets for biologic treatments to improve the healing rates," noted Dr. Tashjian.

More Information: The Utah Population Database is a multigenerational database including, birth, death and family history data on over 10 million individuals. The University of Utah Health Sciences Data Warehouse includes all medical record information on more than two million individuals evaluated and treated at the University of Utah. The combined database allows a hereditary analysis of any piece of the medical record of these individuals stored in the Data Warehouse.

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