Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears Research Articles

Consensus statement on the treatment of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears: a Delphi approach by the Neer Circle of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons.

Management of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCTs) remains controversial owing to variability in patient features and outcomes contributing to a lack of unanimity in treatment recommendations. The purpose of this study was to implement the Delphi process using experts from the Neer Circle of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons to determine areas of consensus regarding treatment options for a variety of MIRCTs. A panel of 120 shoulder surgeons were sent a survey regarding MIRCT treatments including arthroscopic débridement and partial cuff repair, graft augmentation, reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), superior capsular reconstruction (SCR), and tendon transfer. An iterative Delphi process was then conducted with a first-round questionnaire consisting of 13 patient factors with the option for open-ended responses to identify important features influencing the treatment of MIRCTs. The second-round survey sought to determine the importance of patient factors related to the 6 included treatment options. A third-round survey asked participants to classify treatment options for 60 MIRCT patient scenarios as either preferred treatment, acceptable treatment, not acceptable/contraindicated, or unsure/no opinion. Patient scenarios were declared to achieve consensus for the preferred and not acceptable/contraindicated categories when at least 80% of the survey respondents agreed on a response, and a 90% threshold was required for the acceptable treatment category, defined by an acceptable treatment or preferred treatment response. Seventy-two members agreed to participate and were deemed to have the requisite expertise to contribute based on their survey responses regarding clinical practice and patient volume. There were 20 clinical scenarios that reached 90% consensus as an acceptable treatment, with RSA selected for 18 scenarios and arthroscopic débridement and/or partial repair selected for 2. RSA was selected as the singular preferred treatment option in 8 scenarios. Not acceptable/contraindicated treatment options reached consensus in 8 scenarios, of which, 4 related to SCR, 3 related to RSA, and 1 related to partial repair with graft augmentation. This Delphi process exhibited significant consensus regarding RSA as a preferred treatment strategy in older patients with pseudoparesis, an irreparable subscapularis, and dynamic instability. In addition, the process identified certain unacceptable treatments for MIRCTs such as SCR in older patients with pseudoparesis and an irreparable subscapularis or RSA in young patients with an intact or reparable subscapularis without pseudoparesis or dynamic instability. The publication of these scenarios and areas of consensus may serve as a useful guide for practitioners in the management of MIRCTs.

Subacromial spacer implantation: an alternative to arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction. A systematic review.

This systematic review evaluated and compared the use of a subacromial spacer implantation (SSI) with arthroscopic superior capsular repair (ASCR) in the management of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCTs) with an assessment of clinical and imaging outcomes. This systematic review was carried out following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We searched in PubMed, Medline and Embase database literature using the keywords 'subacromial spacer', 'subacromial balloon', 'subacromial device', 'arthroscopy', 'superior capsular reconstruction', 'irreparable rotator cuff tears', 'satisfaction' and 'quality of life'. We included a total of 29 articles (14 about SSI and 15 about ASCR) dealing with outcomes, satisfaction and patients' quality of life. The use of a subacromial spacer showed similar results in terms of patients' satisfaction and quality of life when compared with ASCR. SSI can be implanted quickly and has a low complication rate. It can therefore be considered a good alternative for the management of MIRCTs. The subacromial spacer is a biodegradable implant easily implanted at arthroscopy. It can lead good clinical and imaging outcomes in MIRCTs. Similarly, ASCR can be performed with either an autograft or synthetic allograft transplantation, with satisfactory results. Long-term prospective studies are needed to compare SSI and ASCR to verify their effectiveness.

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears: a reliable treatment method

BackgroundMassive irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCT) are challenging problems for both patients and surgeons. Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) is a treatment option for patients with MIRCTs. However, previous reports have shown inconsistent results, varying patient satisfaction, and higher complication rates. MethodsThis is a retrospective multi-institutional study (22 institutions, 24 surgeons) of 203 patients (average age, 71 years) who underwent RTSA for MIRCT without glenohumeral arthritis with a mean follow-up of 50 months. Patients were divided into 4 groups based on preoperative shoulder active forward elevation (aFE) (<60°, <90°, ≥90°, >120°). Clinical outcomes were assessed using multiple patient-reported outcome measures (PROs), postoperative range of motion (ROM), patient satisfaction, and complication rate. Radiographic outcomes assessment included evaluation of postoperative scapular notching and humeral radiolucent lines. ResultsPatients in each group had significant (P≤ 0.02) improvements in PROs and ROM postoperatively. Patient satisfaction was highest in the group with >120° preoperative aFE (44/44, 100%). Scapular notching and humeral radiolucency were noted in 6% and 7% of patients, respectively. There were only 3 complications that required 2 revision surgeries. Overall, the complication rate (1.6%) and reoperation rate (1.1%) were considerably lower than previously reported. ConclusionRTSA is a reliable treatment for MIRCTs without glenohumeral arthritis that results in significant improvements in PROs and shoulder ROM. Compared to previous studies, we report a substantially higher satisfaction rates in all patients, especially in those with better preoperative ROM (aFE >120°), and a lower overall complication rate. Level of evidenceLevel IV, retrospective case series.

Arthroscopic Superior Capsular Reconstruction (ASCR) with Mesh Augmentation for the Treatment of Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: Preliminary Comparative Study of the Surgical Outcome

The study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of ASCR with mesh augmentation for the treatment of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCTs).

Classification Systems in Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff pathology is one of the most common conditions affecting the shoulder joint. Several classification systems have been used to describe rotator cuff tears in orthopedic literature. However, no comprehensive classification inclusive of all types and characteristics currently exists. Rotator cuff tears are classified based on various parameters. These include: 1. Tear depth 2. Tear Size/Extent 3. Tear Retraction 4. Tendon Quality 5. Tear Progression 6. Arthroscopic Classification. This review article aims to establish an algorithm based on the various existing classification systems so as to arrive at the best surgical or non-surgical solution as well as prognosticate the patient regarding the outcome. Special consideration needs to be made for massive tears which are irreparable. Keywords: Rotator cuff tears; Rotator cuff tear classification; Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears; Partial rotator cuff tears; Subscapularis tears; Geometric Classification; Arthroscopic Classification; Rotator cuff retraction; Rotator cuff tendon quality; Prognosis for Rotator Cuff tears.

Arthroscopic-assisted latissimus dorsi transfer for irreparable posterosuperior cuff tears: Clinical outcome of 15 patients.

We analyzed the clinical and functional results of patients with irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears treated with arthroscopic-assisted latissimus dorsi transfer and the clinical relevance of the addition of partial repair of the remaining cuff to the transfer. This was a prospective cohort study that included patients diagnosed with irreparable massive rotator cuff tears treated by arthroscopic-assisted latissimus dorsi transfer between 2015 and 2018. Demographic characteristics, clinical and functional outcomes (Constant-Murley (CS) score and subjective shoulder value (SSV)), and the incidence of complications were evaluated. Clinical outcomes were compared between patients treated with transfer alone and transfer with partial cuff repair. Fifteen patients were included, with an average follow-up of 37 ± 16months. The median duration of symptoms before surgery was 66weeks (24-208). A significant increase in forward elevation of 52° (p < 0.003) and abduction of 48° (p < 0.001) was obtained. The CS score increased by 48 points (p < 0.001), and the SSV changed from 29% preoperatively to 70% postoperatively (p < 0.001), with a significant decrease in the visual analog pain score from 7 to 1 (p < 0.001). In 10 patients, partial repair of the rotator cuff was also performed. No statistically significant differences were found in these patients compared with patients treated with transfer alone. Two patients presented complications, including transient sensitive neuropraxia of the axillary nerve and seroma, which were managed conservatively and did not affect the outcomes. Arthroscopic-assisted latissimus dorsi transfer is a safe technique that significantly improves clinical and functional outcomes in selected patients. Longer follow-up and comparison with other treatment options are needed to confirm these excellent results in this group of difficult-to-treat patients. Nil.

The best options in superior capsular reconstruction.

Irreparable massive rotator cuff tears cause pain, loss of function, and a decrease in range of motion, which cause serious disturbances in daily life. Young patients, in particular, are active and have relatively high functional requirements, and their surgical options are limited. Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) was first proposed for irreparable massive rotator cuff tears, good clinical results have been reported in short-term follow up. Since then, SCR has been used increasingly worldwide for irreparable massive rotator cuff tears, and various studies have been published on clinical outcomes, biomechanical outcomes, surgical techniques, and graft types. This article reviews the optimal graft and surgical options for improving clinical outcomes in SCR.

Superior Capsular Reconstruction: A Salvage Option for Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears with Pseudoparalysis or Subscapularis Insufficiency

We sought to examine superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) outcomes after minimum 2-year follow-up and determine risk factors that were predictive of outcomes. Forty consecutive patients (mean age 57.3 years, 87.5% male) who underwent SCR for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCT) met the inclusion criteria. Minimum 2-year follow-up was obtained for 32 patients (80% follow-up). Patient demographics and preoperative clinical findings were collected. Postoperative data, including complications, patient satisfaction, strength and range-of-motion (ROM), and patient-reported outcomes were collected. The Hamada score was ≤2 in 88% with average acromiohumeral interval distance of 6.8 mm. Preoperatively, 6 patients had external rotation lag (19%) and 6 had pseudoparalysis (19%). Intraoperative assessment of the subscapularis demonstrated true insufficiency in 38%. There was significant improvement in forward elevation (FE) (31° increase; P= .007) and strength in all planes (all P < .05). Patient-reported outcomes significantly improved (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon [ASES] 34-point increase; visual analog scale [VAS] 2.9-point decrease; single alpha-numeric evaluation [SANE] 48-point increase; all P < .05). Twenty-six patients (81%) were completely or somewhat satisfied with surgery. At time of final follow-up, 3/32 patients (9%) failed SCR and converted to reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. There were 4 (13%) reported complications (2 patients had postoperative falls; 1 patient had persistent severe pain; 1 had persistent stiffness). One patient was deceased. Patients with pseudoparalysis (n= 6) had significant improvement in post-operative FE (28 vs 154°; P < .0001) and SANE score (P= .016) with 66% patient satisfaction. However, outcome scores overall remained lower than SCR without pseudoparalysis. Regarding subscapularis insufficiency (n= 12), significant improvement was seen in postoperative FE (108 vs 158°; P= .019) and patient-reported outcome scores (P < .005). In patients converted from SCR to reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (n= 3), there were no distinguishing characteristics present. Superior capsular reconstruction is an effective salvage operation for massive irreparable RCT. Patients with pseudoparalysis or subscapularis insufficiency demonstrate significant postoperative improvement in FE and patient-reported outcomes. IV, retrospective cohort.

Failure Rate After Superior Capsular Reconstruction With Achilles Tendon-Bone Allograft for Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears.

Background:Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) is an alternative to reverse shoulder arthroplasty for irreparable rotator cuff tears (IRCTs). The reconstructed capsule acts as a static restraint to prevent superior migration of the humeral head. Traditional SCR uses a fascia lata autograft, which has shown failure at the greater tuberosity. An Achilles tendon–bone allograft has been proposed to improve the failure rate.Purpose:To evaluate the surgical outcomes of SCR using an Achilles tendon–bone allograft for the treatment of IRCTs.Study Design:Case series; Level of evidence, 4.Methods:We retrospectively evaluated 6 patients with massive IRCTs who underwent SCR using an Achilles tendon–bone allograft between January 2017 and January 2018. Clinical outcomes were assessed using range of motion, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, and the visual analog scale for pain. The acromiohumeral distance and the status of graft integrity were evaluated using serial magnetic resonance imaging. Second-look arthroscopy surgery was performed to evaluate graft integrity at the mean of 7.5 months postoperative.Results:The mean ± SD clinical follow-up period was 14.5 months (range, 12-17 months). The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons and visual analog scale scores improved from 42.8 ± 11.9 and 4.0 ± 1.2 to 62.1 ± 14.7 and 2.8 ± 1.4, respectively. Forward flexion and external rotation improved from 98° ± 36° and 58° ± 4° to 123° ± 20° and 39° ± 8°, respectively. The acromiohumeral distance improved from 3.9 ± 0.8 mm to 6.4 ± 2.2 mm at final follow-up. However, second-look arthroscopy at a mean of 7.6 months postoperatively confirmed a graft failure rate of 83.3%.Conclusion:SCR using an Achilles tendon–bone allograft for the treatment of IRCTs had a high graft failure rate among patients in this case series.

Improved Clinical and Radiologic Outcomes Seen after Superior Capsule Reconstruction using Long Head Biceps Tendon Autograft

The objective of this study was to investigate the clinical and radiologic outcomes after superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) with biceps tendon (BT) for irreparable rotator cuff tears. The retrospective study period was May 2015 through February 2018. The average follow-up was 32 months (24-48 months) after surgery. Study inclusion criteria included an arthroscopic SCR performed using only our technique and minimum 2-year clinical follow-up by office visit and survey. Exclusion criteria included irreparable subscapularis tear and those patients lost to follow-up. This method enabled SCR by using the extraarticular portion and the intraarticular portion and making it 2 to 3 bundles by moving back and forth in the intraarticular area. Physical examination and functional scoring procedures were performed before surgery and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery. Radiography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed before surgery, after surgery (only radiography), and at 6 and 24 months after surgery. Fifty-three shoulders involving 45 consecutive patients underwent BT technique for irreparable massive rotator cuff tears. The visual analog scale (VAS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), and constant score (CS) showed statistically significant improvement (VAS, 4.1-1.0; ASES, 60.9-82.7; and CS, 64.9-80.0; P < .0001). The shoulder active range of motion improved significantly by 23 for forward elevation (125.3-148.4; P < .0001) and by 12 for external rotation (38.0-50.9, P < .0001). The acromiohumeral distance (AHD) was significantly increased by 2.7 mm (4.4 ± 1.4 mm -> 7.1 ± 1.3 mm). No graft tear was detected in 39 patients (86.7%) during follow-up (24-48 months). SCR via our technique improved clinical and radiologic outcomes. Thirty-five (77.7%) patients achieved 17-point improvement (the minimally clinically important difference) in the last follow-up of ASES score. Clinical scores and AHD had significantly increased, and good healed rate (86.7%) was observed in MRI. Level IV, retrospective case series.

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for irreparable rotator cuff tears without arthritis: A systematic review

IntroductionIndications for reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) have expanded over recent years. Whilst cuff tear arthropathy is an accepted indication, the results of its use in those without arthritis is not clear. The aim of this article is to review the literature on RTSA for massive rotator cuff tears without associated arthritis. MethodsA systematic review search was performed in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to find all studies with clinical outcomes on RTSA performed for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCT) without arthritis. ResultsOf the 160 studies produced by the search, a detailed analysis found 11 articles to be included in this review. There was variability in the implant style used and the outcome measures utilised, but all studies found improvement in the outcome following RTSA. Many studies advised judicious use following high complication rates, and caution was advised in those patients with pre-operatively preserved active forward elevation. ConclusionThe available evidence suggests that RTSA is a reliable option in older patients with persistent pain and lack of function following MIRCT even without arthritis. However, as outcomes are not significantly worse following failed rotator cuff repair, joint preserving options in the younger age group should be carefully considered in light of the relatively high complication rate associated with RTSA. Level of evidenceIV.

Chronic musculoskeletal impairment is associated with alterations in brain regions responsible for the production and perception of movement.

Key points Massive irreparable rotator cuff tear was used as a model to study the impact of chronic pain and motor impairment on the motor systems of the human brain using magnetic resonance imaging.Patients show markers of lower grey/white matter integrity and lower functional connectivity compared with control participants in regions responsible for movement and the perception of visual movement and body shape.An independent cohort of patients showed relative deficits in the perception of visual motion and hand laterality compared with an age‐matched control group.These data support the hypothesis that the structure and function of the motor control system differs in patients who have experienced chronic motor impairment.This work also raises a new hypothesis, supported by neuroimaging and behaviour, that a loss of motor function could also be associated with off‐target effects, namely a reduced ability to perceive motion and body form. Changes in the way we move can induce changes in the brain, yet we know little of such plasticity in relation to musculoskeletal diseases. Here we use massive irreparable rotator cuff tear as a model to study the impact of chronic motor impairment and pain on the human brain. Cuff tear destabilises the shoulder, impairing upper‐limb function in overhead and load‐bearing tasks. We used neuroimaging and behavioural testing to investigate how brain structure and function differed in cuff tear patients and controls (imaging: 21 patients, age 76.3 ± 7.68; 18 controls, age 74.9 ± 6.59; behaviour: 13 patients, age 75.5 ± 10.2; 11 controls, age 73.4 ± 5.01). We observed lower grey matter density and cortical thickness in cuff tear patients in the postcentral gyrus, inferior parietal lobule, temporal‐parietal junction and the pulvinar – areas implicated in somatosensation, reach/grasp and body form perception. In patients we also observed lower functional connectivity between the motor network and the middle temporal visual cortex (MT), a region involved in visual motion perception. Lower white matter integrity was observed in patients in the inferior fronto‐occipital/longitudinal fasciculi. We investigated the cognitive domains associated with the brain regions identified. Patients exhibited relative impairment in visual body judgements and the perception of biological/global motion. These data support our initial hypothesis that cuff tear is associated with differences in the brain's motor control regions in comparison with unaffected individuals. Moreover, our combination of neuroimaging and behavioural data raises a new hypothesis that chronic motor impairment is associated with an altered perception of visual motion and body form.

Outcomes after rotational infraspinatus muscle transfer for irreparable massive rotator cuff tears and long-term follow-up

We developed a surgical technique for rotational infraspinatus muscle transfer in cases with irreparable massive rotator cuff tears while avoiding strong tension at the repaired site to avoid causing paralysis of the suprascapular nerve. Our method involves detaching the infraspinatus muscle, including the portion where the infraspinatus and supraspinatus muscles are connected to the scapula. With this rotational transfer of the infraspinatus muscle, reconstructions of the damaged infraspinatus and supraspinatus muscles are possible by elongation of the supraspinatus muscle.

Interposition grafting for irreparable rotator cuff tears: Systematic review and specialist practice report

The treatment of symptomatic irreparable rotator cuff tears poses significant challenges to both patients and shoulder surgeons. Although reverse shoulder arthroplasty provides reliably good outcomes in the elderly, it is not a good option in younger patients. Various surgical techniques have been proposed for the treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears; however, no gold standard currently exists. Interposition grafting is used when the rotator cuff cannot be fully repaired onto its footprint, and the remaining defect is bridged with either an allograft, autograft, xenograft or a synthetic graft. This review aims to present the literature on the use of various interposition grafts and techniques to treat large or massive irreparable rotator cuff tears and provide a specialist practice report.

Bursal Acromial Reconstruction (BAR) Using an Acellular Dermal Allograft as a Surgical Solution for the Treatment of Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears

Massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears in patients without severe signs of osteoarthritis remains a major challenge for orthopaedic surgeons. These can be a source of significant pain and functional loss occurring most commonly in a relatively frail, elderly patient population. A plethora of surgical techniques covering minimally invasive, arthroscopic techniques and open, salvage procedures have been described for this challenging patient cohort. Continuous evolvement of arthroscopic techniques has led to all-arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction techniques using allografts, thereby reducing donor side morbidity along with decreased soft tissue dissection. However, conventional superior capsular reconstruction is noted to be a technically complex, time-consuming, and high-cost surgery, which may put this technique beyond the confidence of many shoulder surgeons. The subacromial balloon spacer has emerged as a potential solution in these patients, providing interposition between the humeral head and acromion. However, the subacromial balloon biodegrades rapidly and its effect is only temporary. Thus this technique article presents using an acellular human dermal allograft to reconstruct the bursal layer, which is normally interposed between the humeral head and the acromion. The proposed technique provides a permanent interposition graft preventing humeral acromial contact, which does not undergo rapid biodegradation. The surgical technique is technically feasible, both minimizing surgical time and therefore operative risk to the patient.

Arthroscopic partial Superior Capsular Reconstruction using the Long Head of the Biceps Tendon–Technique Description

Superior capsule reconstruction is a valuable intervention for some patients who present symptomatic irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. Superior capsule reconstruction techniques most commonly use either fascia lata autograft or dermal allograft. Both options have literature support but also present a few drawbacks such as donor site issues, potential allergic reactions, and high cost of the operation. The long head of biceps is a potential graft for rotator cuff tears and may be particularly useful in bridging the gap in irreparable massive rotator cuff tears, specifically as an alternative to more traditional superior capsular reconstruction. Long head of biceps transposition may offer unique and significant advantages over other techniques and can be an effective and valuable alternative in selected cases. The tendon’s insertion into the glenoid is left intact, whereas laterally it is transferred to a more central humeral head position and sutured with anchors onto the footprint of the supraspinatus tendon acting as a superior static stabilizer of the shoulder joint. The purpose of this article is to propose a technical modification of superior capsular reconstruction using long head of the biceps tendon autograft.

Treatment of non\u2010arthritic pseudoparetic shoulders with irreparable massive rotator cuff tears: arthroscopic procedures yield comparable midterm results to reverse arthroplasty

BackgroundIrreparable massive rotator cuff tears (IMRCTs) are a well-known cause for functional limitation and difficult to treat. Although several joint-preserving as well as joint-replacing procedures were found to provide pain relief and gain of function, midterm results are scarce, particularly in pseudoparetic shoulder joints unaccompanied by severe osteoarthritis. The purpose of this study was to compare the midterm functional outcomes of arthroscopic procedures to those of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) in pseudoparetic shoulders with IMRCTs unaccompanied by severe osteoarthritis.MethodsAll patients who underwent either joint-preserving (group A) or joint-replacing (group B) procedures for IMRCT unaccompanied by severe osteoarthritis with a pseudoparetic shoulder function were retrospectively included. Clinical assessment included the Constant Score (CS), the Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV) and the Visual Analog Score (VAS) at baseline and at latest follow-up. Furthermore, the complication and revision rates were assessed.ResultsOverall, a total 56 patients were included of whom each 28 patients formed group A (male, 36%) and B (male, 53%) with a mean patient age at time of surgery of 70 ± 7 years and 72 ± 7 years, respectively. The mean follow-up period was 56 ± 17 months. At final follow-up, the total CS (group A: 66 ± 14 points; group B 54 ± 15 points) was significantly increased after arthroscopic treatment when compared to RTSA (p=0.011). However, no significant differences were detected with SSV (p=0.583) and VAS (p=0.536). Although complication rate (11% versus 18%) was not significantly different (p=0.705), number of revision surgeries was significantly higher in group B when compared to group A (p=0.041).ConclusionsIn non-arthritic pseudoparetic shoulders, both joint-preserving and joint-replacing procedures yielded good clinical midterm outcomes for the treatment of degenerative IMRCTs. Despite of comparable functional and satisfactory functional improvement, increased complication rates and surgical invasiveness outweigh the benefits of primary RTSA and therefore reserve this procedure to a second-line treatment in pseudoparetic patients without any signs of severe cuff arthropathy.

Arthroscopic Superior Capsular Reconstruction for Management of Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: A Simple Alternative Technique.

The use of acellular dermal allograft in arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction is a promising treatment option for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. However, indications are limited to a subset of patients, so it is not routinely performed. Therefore, the surgery is technically demanding, although it has evolved in recent years. The authors present a simple alternative technique that addresses common pitfalls. [Orthopedics. 2021;44(3):e458-e462.].

The treatment of irreparable massive rotator cuff tears with inspace balloon: rational and medium-term results.

Background and aim of the work: The treatment of irreparable massive rotator cuff tears (MIRCTs) represents a challenge for the orthopedic surgeon both for the affected population and for the intrinsic characteristics of the injury. There are different types of treatment ranging from bursectomy to reverse shoulder prosthesis and subacromial spacers. The aim of the work is to establish the clinical and functional improvement of patients treated with subacromial spacer. Methods: we conducted 2 studies: the first analyzing a sample of 24 patients (14 females and 10 male, mean age 65.7 years) operated between 2015 and 2017 whose last follow up dates back to October 2021 and a second one analyzing 55 patients (including patients of the first sample) (30 females and 25 males, mean age 64 years) over a period of time from 2015 to 2021. The mean follow up was 56 months. All patients were diagnosed with irreparable massive rotator cuff tears and treated with subacromial spacer. Results:the result in both studies was an increase of Constant score, tripled from the pre-operative values, in ROM, doubled, and a reduction of VAS.Conclusions: the clinical results are encouraging and the use of the subacromial spacer could be a valid surgical alternative for patients with MIRCTs. However, we needed randomized trials with long-term follow-up.(www.actabiomedica.it)

Efficacy of partial repair as a treatment modality in massive irreparable rotator cuff tear in adults: A systematic review

Patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears pose a challenge for treatment, as there are a variety of options to manage this condition, like debridement, biceps tenotomy or tenodesis, complete repair of tear, partial repair, superior capsular reconstruction, balloon arthroplasty, tuberoplasty and reverse shoulder arthroplasty. In this study, we aim to evaluate the efficacy of partial repair of massive IRCTs. We conducted an internet search for articles with key words “Partial arthroscopic repair” and “Management of Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears” and numerous articles were analysed and selected according to our inclusion and exclusion criteria. The studies included were assessed for demography, clinical and functional scores, re-tear rates and complications. Seven studies were included in our review with a total of 246 patients. All patients reported excellent to good satisfaction with improvements in pain, clinical and functional scores compared to their pre op status. From our review, we conclude that partial repair of massive IRCTs is a safe and salvageable treatment option with low complication rates and high patient satisfaction.