Abstract
Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears remain a difficult problem to treat in orthopaedics. The reverse shoulder arthroplasty has revolutionized how we approach patients without a functional rotator cuff, but there is a large patient population that remains unsuitable for this procedure. The subacromial interpositional balloon spacer is one of the latest techniques designed to address this challenging problem for such patients. The biodegradable spacer is designed to restore glenohumeral mechanics by reversing proximal humeral migration and providing a counterbalance to the superiorly directed force vector of the deltoid muscle. This helps to restore the fulcrum necessary for elevation of the arm. Placement of the biodegradable device is relatively quick and does not require extensive rehabilitation postoperatively. In addition, the surgery does not prohibit the patient from any future surgeries should the condition of the shoulder worsen over time. The subacromial balloon spacer has had widespread use in Europe with good success and limited complications. It is currently being evaluated for use in the United States in The Food and Drug Administration trial.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
