Healing and functional outcome of a subscapularis peel repair with a stem-based repair after total shoulder arthroplasty

Functional and radiographic results of anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty in the setting of subscapularis dysfunction: 5-year outcomes analysis

BACKGROUND

Subscapularis management is a critical component to the success of anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). Failure to heal the subscapularis can result in pain, weakness, loss of function, and revision. However, not all patients have poor outcomes. The purpose of this study is to compare patients with normal and dysfunctional subscapularis function following TSA in regard to (1) patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs); (2) range of motion (ROM) and strength; (3) achievement of minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs); and (4) specific functional internal rotation tasks.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients treated with TSA for osteoarthritis with a minimum 2-year follow-up was performed to identify patients with subscapularis dysfunction. Subscapularis dysfunction was diagnosed when any degree of weakness in internal rotation was detected on physical examination (positive belly press sign). These patients were case controlled matched on a 1:3 ratio to patients with normal subscapularis function based on age and sex. PROMs, measured active motion, revision rates, patient satisfaction, and postoperative radiographic findings were compared. Population-specific institutional anchor-based MCID values were used to compare the improvement in PROM.

RESULTS

Of the 668 patients included, 34 patients (5.1%) demonstrated evidence of subscapularis dysfunction. Mean follow-up for the normal subscapularis function cohort was 63.4 ± 29.7 and 58.7 ± 26.8 for the dysfunctional subscapularis cohort. Patients with subscapularis dysfunction demonstrated significantly worse postoperative Simple Shoulder Test, Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation, visual analog scale (VAS) function, VAS pain, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES) scores with higher rates of unsatisfactory results when compared to patients with normal subscapularis function. Abduction, elevation, internal rotation ROM, along with supraspinatus and external rotation strength were also significantly worse in the dysfunctional group. Similarly, these patients were more likely to have decreased ability to perform functional internal rotation tasks, with only 47% of the patients being able to reach the small of their back compared to 85% with normal subscapularis function. Radiographically, the dysfunctional cohort demonstrated higher rates of anterior subluxation (56% vs. 7%; P < .001) and glenoid loosening (24% vs. 5%; P = .004). Similarly, revision rates were significantly higher for patients with subscapularis dysfunction (8 patients, 23.5%). Nonetheless, the dysfunctional subscapularis cohort demonstrated improvements in VAS pain (4.0 ± 3.7) and ASES (46.4 ± 35.9) scores that exceeded MCID thresholds.

CONCLUSION

Patients who develop subscapularis dysfunction after TSA have significantly worse PROMs, ROM, functional tasks of internal rotation, and radiographic outcomes, as well as increased rates of revision. Although patients show worse outcomes and high revision rates compared with their normal-functioning counterparts, these patients maintained improvement above MCID thresholds for pain and function at a mean 5-year follow-up.

Lesser Tuberosity Osteotomy for the Management of the Subscapularis During Total Shoulder Arthroplasty

Subscapularis integrity is critical after anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty, with failure leading to potential instability, loss of function, and revision surgery. The three well-described subscapularis mobilization techniques during total shoulder arthroplasty include tenotomy, peel, and lesser tuberosity osteotomy (LTO). While several comparative studies exist, the optimal approach remains controversial. LTO has been associated with the highest healing rates, but techniques and repair constructs are highly variable. The purpose of this article was to provide an overview of LTO with attention on radiographic assessment, repair options, and clinical outcomes.

Variability in physical therapy protocols following total shoulder arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Physical therapy (PT) plays an important role in the recovery of function following anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (aTSA). While several PT protocols have been published for these patients, there is no standardized protocol for aTSA rehabilitation. This lack of standardization may lead to confusion between patients and physicians, possibly resulting in suboptimal outcomes. This study examines how PT protocols provided by academic orthopedic surgery programs vary regarding therapeutic goals and activities following aTSA.

METHODS

PT protocols for aTSA available online from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education accredited orthopedic surgery programs were included for review. Each protocol was analyzed to evaluate it for differences in recommendation of length of immobilization, range of motion (ROM) goals, start time for and progression of therapeutic exercises, and timing for return to functional activity.

RESULTS

Of 175 accredited programs, 25 (14.2%) had protocols publicly available, programs (92%) recommended sling immobilization outside of therapy for an average of 4.4±2.0 weeks. Most protocols gave recommendations on starting active forward flexion (24 protocols, range 1-7 weeks), external rotation (22 protocols, range 1-7 weeks), and internal rotation (18 protocols, range 4-7 weeks). Full passive ROM was recommended at 10.8±5.7 weeks, and active ROM was 13.3±3.9 weeks, on average. ROM goals were inconsistent among protocols, with significant variations in recommended ROM and resistance exercise start times. Only 13 protocols (52%) gave recommendations on resuming recreational activities (mean, 17.4±4.4 weeks).

CONCLUSIONS

Publicly available PT protocols for aTSA rehabilitation are highly variable. Level of evidence: IV.

Subscapularis management in anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

Background

This systematic review and network meta-analysis compare clinical outcomes of three different subscapularis management techniques in anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty: lesser tuberosity osteotomy, subscapularis peel, and subscapularis tenotomy.

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane's trial registry were searched in July 2021. Comparative studies and case series evaluating the outcomes of these three techniques were included. The network meta-analysis was performed only on comparative studies.

Results

Twenty-three studies were included. Both lesser tuberosity osteotomy and subscapularis peel had significantly higher Western Ontario Osteoarthritis Scores compared to subscapularis tenotomy, but no difference in American Shoulder and Elbow Society Scores. Subscapularis peel had superior external rotation compared to lesser tuberosity osteotomy. However, no difference was found in external rotation between subscapularis peel and subscapularis tenotomy or between subscapularis tenotomy and lesser tuberosity osteotomy. The overall weighted average for lesser tuberosity osteotomy bony union was 93.6%, whereas the overall weighted average for subscapularis tendon healing was 79.4% and 87% for subscapularis tenotomy and subscapularis peel, respectively.

Discussion

This network meta-analysis demonstrated that lesser tuberosity osteotomy and subscapularis peel were associated with the high union and subscapularis healing rates and may be associated with improved shoulder function and quality of life, compared to subscapularis tenotomy. Lesser tuberosity osteotomy and subscapularis peel demonstrate a trend of superior outcomes compared to subscapularis tenotomy during anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty.

Ultrasound assessment after a subscapularis-sparing approach to total shoulder arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Although anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (ATSA) has favorable outcomes, nearly all techniques involve subscapularis tendon release for shoulder joint access. Such takedown of the subscapularis may be associated with decreased function, instability, and pain. Subscapularis-sparing approaches have the theoretical benefits of improved function, decreased failure of the tendon reattachment site, and early range of motion and rehabilitation. The primary purpose of this study was to use ultrasound to assess the postoperative integrity of the subscapularis tendon and surrounding soft tissues after ATSA with a subscapularis-sparing technique through an extensile anterosuperior skin incision. Our hypothesis was that this subscapularis-sparing approach would have low rates of subscapularis disruption.

METHODS

A consecutive cohort of patients who underwent subscapularis-sparing ATSA between 2014 and 2017 were included. Ultrasound was used to evaluate the rotator cuff tendons and deltoid postoperatively, and these were classified as intact, disrupted, or unable to be adequately visualized. Clinical outcome scores, range of motion, and strength measurements were also collected at 1-3 years postoperatively.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven subscapularis tendons and 40 supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles were adequately visualized and included for analysis. Of the subscapularis muscles, 32 (86%) were intact; 38 of the visualized supraspinatus muscles (95%) and 39 of the infraspinatus muscles (98%) were intact. No dehiscence or loss of integrity of the deltoid was noted. Clinical comparison between patients with disrupted subscapularis muscles and patients without such disruption demonstrated no difference in clinical outcome scores and postoperative range of motion but showed less strength in forward flexion, abduction, and external rotation.

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of subscapularis disruption using a subscapularis-sparing approach for ATSA was low (14%), but the potential for tendon disruption was not eradicated. Favorable clinical outcomes support this surgical approach as a potential technique for ATSA.

Posterior-approach total shoulder arthroplasty: a case series with a minimum of 2-year outcomes

BACKGROUND

A posterior approach to shoulder arthroplasty has been described that may improve exposure to the retroverted glenoid and spare the rotator cuff. The purpose of this study was to evaluate posterior total shoulder arthroplasty (PTSA) at a minimum of 2 years.

METHODS

Between September 2016 and October 2017, 28 patients (30 shoulders) who underwent PTSA were retrospectively identified. Patients were monitored at baseline and at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and a minimum of 2 years after surgery for range of motion, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) and Simple Shoulder Test scores, radiographic outcomes, complications, and patient satisfaction. Radiographs were assessed for head height, neck-shaft angle, humeral head centering, and the presence or absence of glenoid-component cement lines. Repeated-measures analysis-of-variance models were implemented to compare the means for each outcome variable over time.

RESULTS

Of the 28 patients (30 shoulders), 24 patients (26 shoulders) (87%) were available for follow-up at a minimum of 2 years (average, 31.2 months; range, 23-40 months). At latest follow-up, the average ASES pain score was 45.2 (standard deviation [SD], 10.9; range, 20-50; 95% confidence interval [CI], 40.8-49.6); average ASES function score, 42.3 (SD, 8.9; range, 21.7-50; 95% CI, 38.7-45.8); average ASES total score, 87.5 (SD, 18.8; range, 31.7-100; 95% CI, 79.8-95.1); and average Simple Shoulder Test score, 10.2 (SD, 2.0; range, 5-12; 95% CI, 9.4-11.0). Average forward flexion was 164° (SD, 13.9°; range, 130°-180°; 95% CI, 158.3°-170.4°); average external rotation, 78° (SD, 9.2°; range, 55°-90°; 95% CI, 74.3°-82.3°); and average internal rotation, T10 (SD, 2; range, L3 to T6; 95% CI, T10 to T8). The average head height was 0.86 mm above the greater tuberosity (range, -6.5 to 6.9 mm), the average neck-shaft angle was 128° (range, 113°-148°), and the average implant placement was 0.12 mm superior to the center of the neck cut (range, -3.3 to 3.5 mm). Six implants were considered malpositioned based on the criterion of >5 mm of head height above or below the tuberosity or >2 mm off-center. Glenoid cement lines were present in 7 shoulders. Two patients experienced complications: 1 patient had symptomatic glenoid loosening 29 months postoperatively that required revision to an anterior reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, and 1 patient had postoperative weakness that resolved by 6 months.

CONCLUSION

PTSA is safe and efficacious at 2 years, spares the rotator cuff, and may improve early postoperative function. PTSA is more easily performed with stemless arthroplasty. Challenges with creation of the humeral head osteotomy and identification of the center of the cut humeral head surface can affect the accuracy of implant positioning. Further improvements in technique will likely improve the feasibility of this approach.

Subscapularis management in stemmed and stemless total shoulder arthroplasty: a surgeon decision-making analysis study

Background

Stemless total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) continues to grow in popularity as an evolution of stemmed humeral implants. Proposed advantages include bone preservation and ease of potential revision. However, absence of a stem may necessitate a change in subscapularis takedown approach. Specifically, there is theoretical concern about violation of supportive bone with lesser tuberosity osteotomy when using a stemless device. Therefore, the goal of this study was to identify if surgeons change their subscapularis takedown preference when performing stemless vs. stemmed TSA.

Methods and materials

Data from a consecutive series of patients who underwent stemmed and stemless TSA at an academic institution were collected. The subscapularis management technique was documented. Subscapularis takedown techniques were divided into 2 groups: soft-tissue approach (subscapularis tenotomy or peel) and bony approach (lesser tuberosity osteotomy). Historical preference for each surgeon was determined by evaluating techniques employed using stemmed TSA. A Cramers V analysis was run to determine the strength of association between this historical preference and subscapularis management technique used for stemless TSA.

Results

One hundred and fifty-four patients were included in this analysis. There were 72 and 82 stemmed and stemless arthroplasty cases performed, respectively. Of the 154 patients, 50.6% were women. The average age of patients was 64.2 years. Four surgeons were included in this study. In all, there were 79 and 75 bony and soft-tissue subscapularis techniques, respectively. The historical preference for 3 of the surgeons was a subscapularis bony approach, and the historical preference for one of the surgeons was a soft-tissue approach. A Cramer's V analysis was used to measure the relative strength of association between patient factors, historical subscapularis management preference, and subscapularis takedown approach in stemless TSA. Our analysis yielded a value of 0.65 (P < .01), indicating a redundant association between subscapularis management approach used between stemmed and stemless implant per surgeon.

Conclusion

In determining subscapularis tendon management strategy, in surgeons who performed stemmed TSA before stemless TSA, the subscapularis takedown approach used for stemless TSA is strongly associated with surgeon's historical preference for stemmed TSA. Future research will be needed to determine the clinical ramifications of this finding.

Tuberosity Repair in Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty for Fracture Using a Stem-based Double-row Repair: A Cadaveric Biomechanical Study

INTRODUCTION

The optimal tuberosity repair method in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for fracture is unknown.

METHODS

Eight matched pairs of cadaver shoulders were randomly assigned to a stem-based tuberosity repair technique or a nonstem-based repair (Boileau technique) and mechanically tested with a 10 kN load cell. Cyclic loading was performed between 10 and 100 N for 500 cycles at 1 Hz, followed by static pull to failure at 33 mm/s. Ultimate load was determined from the maximum load reached during the pull to failure. A paired Student t-test was used to compare the means of the ultimate load and average cyclic displacement of the two sample groups.

RESULTS

The ultimate load to failure for the stem-based tuberosity repair technique was significantly higher than the nonstem-based technique (668 ± 164 N versus 483 ± 67 N; P = 0.032). The average cyclic displacement for the stem-based tuberosity repair technique was significantly less than the nonstem-based technique 0 (0.83 ± 0.67 mm versus 3.36 ± 2.36 mm; P = 0.017).

CONCLUSION

The stem-based tuberosity repair technique afforded higher ultimate load to failure with less average cyclic displacement than the nonstem-based technique. Consideration to the stem-based technique should be given when performing a tuberosity repair in the setting of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for fracture.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

A narrative review and content analysis of functional and quality of life measures used to evaluate the outcome after TSA: an ICF linking application

Background

Total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) is considered as the standard reconstructive surgery for patients suffering from severe shoulder pain and dysfunction caused by arthrosis. Multiple patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) have been developed and validated that can be used to evaluate TSA outcomes. When selecting an outcome measure both content and psychometric properties must be considered. Most research to date has focused on psychometric properties. Therefore, the current study aims to summarize what PROMs are being used to assess TSA outcomes, to classify the type of measure (International society for quality of life (ISOQOL) using definitions of functioning, disability, and health (FDH), quality of life (QoL) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL)) and to compare the content of these measures by linking them to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework.

Methods

A literature review was performed in three databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL to identify PROMs that were used in TSA studies. Meaningful concepts of the identified measures were extracted and linked to the relevant second-level ICF codes using standard linking rules. Outcome measures were classified as being FDH, HRQoL or QoL measures based on the content analysis.

Result

Thirty-five measures were identified across 400 retrieved studies. The most frequently used PROM was the American Shoulder and Elbow Society score accounting for 21% (246) of the total citations, followed by the single item pain-related scale like visual analog scale (17%) and Simple Shoulder Test (12%). Twelve PROMs with 190 individual items fit inclusion criteria for conceptual analysis. Most codes (65%) fell under activity and participation categories. The top 3 most predominant codes were: sensation of pain (b280; 13%), hand and arm use (d445; 13%), recreational activity (d920; 8%). Ten PROMs included in this study were categorized as FDH measures, one as HRQoL measure, and one as unknown.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that there is an inconsistency and lack of clarity in conceptual frameworks of identified PROMs. Despite this, common core constructs are evaluated. Decision-making about individual studies or core sets for outcome measurement for TSA would be advanced by considering our results, patient priorities and measurement properties.

Subscapularis Repair During Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty Using a Stem-Based Double-Row Repair: Sonographic and Clinical Outcomes

Background:

Treatment of the subscapularis in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) is a controversial topic, with conflicting evidence regarding outcomes after repair.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to report clinical and sonographic outcomes of a through-implant double-row suture technique for subscapularis repair in RTSA and to compare clinical outcomes and range of motion (ROM) between patients with an intact subscapularis tendon repair versus those whose tendon repair was not intact. The authors hypothesized that the novel repair technique would find more than 80% of tendons intact on ultrasound, with significant improvement in clinical outcome scores and ROM. The authors also hypothesized that patients with an intact subscapularis tendon repair would have better clinical outcomes compared with those with a nonintact tendon repair.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

The study included all patients who underwent RTSA by 1 of 2 surgeons between August 2016 and March 2017 with the through-implant double-row suture technique for subscapularis repair. Subscapularis tendon integrity was assessed postoperatively via ultrasound at minimum 1-year follow-up. American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), and pain visual analog scale (VAS) scores were recorded at the final follow-up visit in addition to ROM measures.

Results:

A total of 48 patients (31 males, 17 females; mean age, 68.9 ± 7.4 years; mean follow-up, 13.8 ± 2.1 months) were included. On ultrasound, the subscapularis was intact in 83.3% of patients. Regarding preoperative versus postoperative outcome scores, the ASES score (mean ± SD) significantly improved from 38.3 ± 14.7 to 81.9 ± 13.6, the SANE score significantly improved from 29.8 ± 24.2 to 75.5 ± 21.0, and the VAS pain score significantly improved from 5.9 ± 2.1 to 1.2 ± 1.6 (P < .001 for all). Forward flexion and external rotation significantly improved. No significant difference existed in clinical outcome scores or ROM between patients with intact versus torn subscapularis tendons based on ultrasound.

Conclusion:

Subscapularis repair using a stem-based double-row repair technique during RTSA demonstrated an overall healing rate of 83.3%, as evidenced by ultrasound examination at short-term follow-up. Integrity of subscapularis repair did not affect clinical outcome or ROM.

Healing Rate and Clinical Outcomes of Lesser Tuberosity Osteotomy for Anatomic Shoulder Arthroplasty

Several techniques are available for subscapularis management during total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). Lesser tuberosity osteotomy (LTO) is advocated owing to improved biomechanical strength and high rates of healing. However, displacement or nonunion of the LTO could theoretically cause functional deficits for the affected shoulder. The purpose of this study is to examine the healing rate and clinical outcomes of LTO in patients undergoing anatomic TSA.

Methods

A retrospective review of our institution's prospectively enrolled TSA registry was performed. Patients undergoing primary TSA who had an LTO performed and radiographs at a minimum of 3 months postoperatively were included. Two fellowship-trained shoulder and elbow surgeons reviewed all radiographs and categorized LTO healing into three groups: healed, nondisplaced nonunion, or displaced nonunion. Physical examination data and patient-reported outcome scores including American Shoulder and Elbow Score, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation scores, and the Veteran Rand mental and physical component scores were obtained at a median of 1 year after surgery. Comparative statistical analysis was performed on the healed versus nondisplaced nonunion groups.

Results

We included 142 shoulders in 130 patients who met the inclusion criteria with an average age of 65.2 years (SD: 10.3). Radiographic evaluation at a median of 1.0 years postoperatively (range: 6 months to 2.2 years) revealed 124 (87%) healed LTO, 12 (8%) nondisplaced nonunions, and six (5%) displaced nonunions. The median American Shoulder and Elbow Score total score was 89.2 (IQR: 72.2, 98.3) in the healed LTO group versus 96.7 (30, 98.3) in the LTO nondisplaced nonunion group (P = 0.9637). The median Veteran Rand mental component was 55.1 (IQR: 43.4, 61.0) in the healed LTO group versus 54.6 (38.8, 58.2) in the LTO nondisplaced nonunion group (P = 0.5679). The median Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score was 85.0 (IQR: 70.0, 95.0) in the LTO-healed group versus 75.1 (35.0, 97.1) in the LTO nondisplaced nonunion group (P = 0.7699). There were no significant differences in revision surgery occurrence between the groups to address subscapularis instability: one patient in the LTO-healed group underwent revision surgery for subscapularis repair 3 months after primary surgery because of continued pain and weakness, and no patients in the other LTO groups underwent revision surgery.

Conclusion

Although there is a risk of nonunion and displacement using the LTO technique in TSA, the overall clinical outcomes and radiographic union rates are high with a very low risk of revision surgery. In addition, radiographic evidence of nonunion does not significantly correlate with clinical outcomes.

Subscapularis in Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty

The use of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is becoming increasingly popular, but many biomechanical aspects are poorly understood. Particularly, the role and function of the subscapularis following RSA are unclear. Several clinical and biomechanical studies have analyzed its role in range of motion and stability. There is some evidence that the subscapularis is beneficial for stability but may reduce range of motion. This review provides an overview of the current literature, which suggests that the subscapularis may have a more important role in RSA than originally thought.

Lesser Tuberosity Osteotomy in Anatomic Total Shoulder Arthroplasty

The deltopectoral exposure has earned the reputation as the “workhorse” approach to the shoulder. Due to the reproducible anatomy and its extensile nature, there is little debate when considering exposure in total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). Despite this consensus, there is still significant variability in management of the subscapularis. Several repair techniques including a subscapularis tenotomy, peel, and lesser tuberosity osteotomy (LTO) have been developed to ensure healing and optimize function. This article focuses on performing a LTO in anatomic TSA. We will review the surgical technique and advantages in exposure in addition to biomechanical and clinical outcomes.

Subscapularis Insufficiency: What’s All the Fuss About?

There has been increase attention to the surgical treatment of the subscapularis (SSC) tendon with risk of postoperative dysfunction and early failures following shoulder arthroplasty. Studies investigating the clinical results after shoulder arthroplasty indicate that SSC tendon detachment or incision techniques and rehabilitation concepts may impair SSC recovery and consequently the postoperative function. In response to these results, technical modifications have been proposed and evaluated anatomically, biomechanically, and clinically. The aim of this article is to give an overview of current SSC take-down approaches, subsequent repair techniques, and postoperative rehabilitation protocols as well as to present the diagnostic algorithm and clinical impacts of the increasingly acknowledged condition of SSC insufficiency following shoulder arthroplasty procedures.

Outcomes of lesser tuberosity osteotomy in revision anatomic shoulder arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Lesser tuberosity osteotomy (LTO) is a common surgical approach during anatomic shoulder arthroplasty. Outcomes of LTO have been shown to be similar to subscapularis tenotomy and peel techniques, but little is known about the outcomes of LTO during revision arthroplasty.

METHODS

This retrospective case series included 10 consecutive patients who underwent LTO during revision shoulder arthroplasty at a single institution from 2012 to 2016. Patients underwent a preoperative computed tomography scan to evaluate the lesser tuberosity bone stock. Demographic information, radiographic evidence of LTO healing, outcomes of range of motion, subscapularis strength, and visual analog scale pain scores were analyzed.

RESULTS

Revision total shoulder arthroplasty with LTO was performed for glenoid arthritis after hemiarthroplasty in 10 patients. Average age at surgery was 59.8 years, and no humeral stems were revised. Eight of 10 patients had prior subscapularis tenotomy. Average follow-up after revision surgery was 9.2 months. LTO union was documented in 80% and nondisplaced nonunion in 20%. At follow-up, 50% reported mild pain. Subscapularis strength testing was graded normal in 80% and weak in 20%. Average visual analog scale pain improved from 9.4 prerevision to 4.8 postrevision (P < .05). On average, range of motion improved in active forward elevation from 123° to 141° and remained unchanged in active external rotation from 42° to 42°.

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing LTO during revision anatomic shoulder arthroplasty demonstrate successful LTO bony healing, improvement in pain, and improved forward elevation. In select patients not requiring humeral stem revision, LTO is a safe and effective surgical approach to subscapularis management during revision anatomic shoulder arthroplasty.

Subscapularis Peel in Anatomic Total Shoulder Arthroplasty

Background

Anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty is a viable treatment option for patients with glenohumeral arthritis and an intact rotator cuff with successful outcomes. However, one complication is rupture of the subscapularis tendon postoperatively. Controversy exists regarding the optimal technique of subscapularis tendon management. The purpose of the present article is to review subscapularis peel repair method.

Methods

The current literature on anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty and subscapularis peel was reviewed to determine the viability of the repair technique.

Results

Both biomechanical and clinical studies have demonstrated advantages and disadvantages of the subscapularis peel technique, most often by way of direct comparison with lesser tuberosity osteotomy, without consensus as to a superior repair method.

Discussion

The subscapularis peel repair in anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty when performed correctly may yield successful biomechanical and clinical outcomes for patients.