Latissimus dorsi tendon transfer for irreparable rotator cuff tears: a modified technique to improve tendon transfer integrity

Reinforcement Techniques in Arthroscopic Repair of Large-to-Massive Rotator Cuff Tears: A Comparative Study of Superior Capsule Reconstruction and Patch Graft Augmentation

Background: Large-to-massive rotator cuff tears (LMRCTs) present challenges in achieving successful repair due to factors such as muscle atrophy and tendon retraction. Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) with reinforcement techniques like superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) or patch graft augmentation (PGA) has emerged as a less invasive option to improve shoulder joint stability and prevent retear. This study aimed to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of SCR and PGA as reinforcement techniques for the arthroscopic repair of LMRCTs. Methods: A single-center retrospective study was conducted on patients undergoing LMRCT repair between January 2019 and December 2021. Patients were divided into two groups: those receiving SCR (Group 1) and those receiving PGA (Group 2). Various clinical parameters including range of motion, functional scores, and radiological assessments were evaluated preoperatively and six months postoperatively. Results: Both SCR and PGA techniques demonstrated significant improvements in the range of motion and clinical scores postoperatively. However, Group 2 showed higher postoperative SST and UCLA scores compared to Group 1. Radiologically, there was a slightly higher retear rate in Group 2, although this was not statistically significant. Group 2 also had a shorter mean duration of surgery compared to Group 1. Conclusions: In the arthroscopic repair of LMRCTs, both SCR and PGA techniques exhibit favorable clinical and radiological outcomes. Despite the simplicity of PGA compared to SCR, it offers comparable results with a shorter surgical duration, making it a feasible reinforcement option for surgeons.

Mid- to long-term outcomes of latissimus dorsi tendon transfer for massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This study aims to analyze the mid-to long-term results of the latissimus dorsi tendon for the treatment of massive posterosuperior irreparable rotator cuff tears as reported in high-quality publications and to determine its efficacy and safety.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE databases were searched until December 2022 to identify studies with a minimum 4 year follow-up. Clinical and radiographic outcomes, complications, and revision surgery data were collected. The publications included were analyzed quantitatively using the DerSimonian Laird random-effects model to estimate the change in outcomes from the preoperative to the postoperative condition. The proportion of complications and revisions were pooled using the Freeman-Tukey double arcsine transformation.

RESULTS

Of the 618 publications identified through database search, 11 articles were considered eligible. A total of 421 patients (432 shoulders) were included in this analysis. Their mean age was 59.5 ± 4 years. Of these, 277 patients had mid-term follow-up (4-9 years), and 144 had long-term follow-up (more than 9 years). Postoperative improvements were considered significant for the following outcome parameters: Constant-Murley Score (0-100 scale), with a mean difference (MD) = 28 points (95% confidence interval [CI] 21, 36; I2 = 89%; P < .001); visual analog scale, with a standardized MD = 2.5 (95% CI 1.7, 3.3; P < .001; I2 = 89%; P < .001); forward flexion, with a MD = 43° (95% CI 21°, 65°; I2 = 95% P < .001); abduction, with a MD = 38° (95% CI 20°, 56°; I2 = 85%; P < .01), and external rotation, with a MD = 8° (95% CI 1°, 16°; I2 = 87%; P = .005). The overall reported mean complication rate was 13% (95% CI 9%, 19%; I2 = 0%), while the reported mean revision rate was 6% (95% CI: 3%, 9%; I2 = 0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our pooled estimated results seem to indicate that latissimus dorsi tendon transfer significantly improves patient-reported outcomes, pain relief, range of motion, and strength, with modest rates of complications and revision surgery at mid-to long-term follow-up. In well-selected patients, latissimus dorsi tendon transfer may provide favorable outcomes for irreparable posterosuperior cuff tears.

Outcomes after arthroscopically assisted lower trapezius transfer with Achilles tendon allograft

BACKGROUND

Lower trapezius tendon transfer is 1 option to improve pain and function with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation of tendon healing with the procedure has not yet been reported. The purpose of this study was to evaluate early tendon transfer healing using postoperative MRI scans and to assess early clinical outcomes in patients after arthroscopically assisted lower trapezius tendon transfer (AALTT) for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears.

METHODS

This was a single institution retrospective review of consecutive patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears who underwent AALTT with a single surgeon from January 2017 to July 2020 with a minimum 6-month follow-up. Patient information including age, sex, follow-up, prior surgical history, and type of work (sedentary or labor-intensive) was recorded. Preoperative and postoperative range of motion, external rotation strength, presence of a lag sign, and pain visual analog scale data were extracted from medical records. Patient-reported outcomes were extracted from patient charts. Six-month postoperative MRIs were reviewed for tendon transfer healing at both the greater tuberosity and the trapezius-allograft interface.

RESULTS

A total of 19 patients met inclusion criteria with average age 56.7 (range, 29-72 years). Of these patients, 17 (89.5%) were male. The average follow-up was 14.6 (range, 6-45) months. Fifteen (78.9%) patients had unsuccessful previous rotator cuff repair. Six-month MRI demonstrated complete healing of the transferred tendon in 17 of 19 patients (89.5%). There were significant improvements in postoperative pain visual analog scale (5.9 ± 2 vs. 1.8 ± 2), ASES score (44.6 ± 18 vs. 71.2 ± 24), and Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical (46.3 ± 6 vs. 51.3 ± 11) and in external rotation motion (10.5 ± 17° vs. 40.5 ± 13°) and strength (2.8/5 ± 1 vs. 4.7/5 ± 0.5) at final follow-up. All patients with a preoperative external rotation lag sign had reversal of their lag sign at final follow-up (15/15). Of 17 work-eligible patients, 13 (76.4%) were able to return to work.

CONCLUSION

In this series, AALTT showed a high rate of healing of the transferred tendon on MRI by 6 months postoperatively. The current findings of a high rate of early tendon transfer healing are consistent with the good early and mid-term outcomes that have been observed in AALTT and provide support for surgeon and patient expectations, postoperative rehabilitation, and return to work following AALTT for massive posterior superior rotator cuff tears.

Outcomes of Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty with Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Transfer for External Rotation Deficit: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Latissimus dorsi transfer (LDT) has been purported to restore motion in patients undergoing reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) who have preoperative combined loss of forward elevation (FE) and external rotation (ER). This systematic review summarizes the available evidence for the functional outcomes and complications after RSA with LDT. Furthermore, the effect of implant design and whether a concomitant teres major transfer (TMT) was performed were studied.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed per Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We queried PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases to identify articles reporting on LDT with RSA to restore ER. Our primary outcomes were ER, FE, Constant score, and complication incidence. Secondarily, we reported postoperative internal rotation (IR) and compared ER, FE, and Constant score based on lateralized versus medialized global implant design and whether concomitant TMT was performed.

RESULTS

Nineteen studies were evaluated; functional outcomes were assessed in 16 articles reporting on 258 RSAs (123 LDT, 135 LDT-TMT). Surgical indication was most commonly cuff tear arthropathy and massive irreparable cuff tear. Mean ER was -12° preoperatively and 25° postoperatively, FE was 72° preoperatively and 141° postoperatively. Mean postoperative Constant score was 65. Of 138 patients (8 studies) describing IR, only 25% reported a mean postoperative IR ≥L3. Subanalysis comparing lateralized versus medialized implants and whether TMT was concomitantly performed demonstrated no significant difference in postoperative ER, FE, and Constant score, nor preoperative to postoperative improvement in ER and FE. The complication rate was 14.1% (of 291 shoulders from 16 studies), including tear in the tendon transfer (n = 3), revision tendon repair (n = 1), nerve-related complication (n = 9), and dislocation (n = 9).

CONCLUSIONS

RSA with LDT is a reliable option to restore motion, with a comparable complication rate with standard RSA. The use of medialized versus lateralized implants and whether the TM was concomitantly transferred may not influence clinical outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Clinical outcomes in latissimus dorsi transfer single- versus double-incision technique

BACKGROUND/HYPOTHESIS

In patients with irreparable postero-superior rotator cuff lesions, a latissimus dorsi transfer (LDT) is performed. For this surgery, different techniques are used. In this study, we aim to compare the patient's functional outcome after treatment with modified L'Episcopo "single-incision" and modified Gerber "double-incision" technique for LDT.

METHODS

44 patients with irreparable postero-superior rotator cuff ruptures, refractory to physiotherapeutic treatment were included. 21 patients were treated using a modified L'Episcopo "single-incision", 23 patients with modified Gerber "double-incision" surgical approach. All patients had full-thickness tears of at least two complete tendons, and all had fully functioning deltoid and subscapularis muscles. Preoperatively, there were statistically significant differences between the two groups in all preoperative CMS sub-parameters except "power" and "pain". In the postoperative follow-up, a functional assessment using "Constant-Murley Score" (CMS) and "Age- and gender-related CMS" was conducted.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective-comparative trial.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences between age, sex and time of follow-up between the two study groups (p > 0.05). The mean age was 59.2(± 6.3) years, and the mean follow-up time was 45.4(± 9.3) months for both groups taken together. Mean CMS improved for both groups together from 24.2 ± 8.2 points prior to surgery, to 62.8 ± 17.4 points after a mean follow-up time of 45.4 ± 9.3 months post surgery. The patients treated with "single-incision" surgery (n = 21) gained significantly (p < 0.001) more in CMS and all CMS-sub-scoring parameters except power and pain, compared to the patients treated with "double-incision" technique (n = 23).

CONCLUSION

This survey shows appealing post-operative functional outcome in patients with irreparable postero-superior rotator cuff lesions treated with two different techniques for LDT. We believe that the presentation of these methods and their results might encourage shoulder surgeons to implement these techniques. Especially the "single-incision" LDT surgery might be a more accustomed technique for many shoulder surgeons well trained in the deltopectoral approach.

Allograft-enhanced latissimus dorsi transfer is better than the conventional technique for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. A retrospective matched cohort

PURPOSE

Latissimus dorsi tendon (LDT) transfer (LDTT) to the greater tuberosity to treat irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears (RCTs) in young active patients has been shown to have up to 36% of clinical failures, most of them happening because of either deltoid origin disruption or post-operative transfer rupture from the greater tuberosity. In an attempt to simultaneously prevent both complications, a modified technique includes the following adaptations to the original technique: reinforcement and augmentation of the LDT with a tendinous allograft, enabling the use of a single deltopectoral approach. The aim of this study is to compare mid-term outcomes of the traditional LDTT technique with this modified transfer.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study comparing two groups who underwent either the traditional (group 1; n = 19) or the modified technique (group 2; n = 27). Group homogenization was assured by statistical comparison of 24 baseline independent variables. The outcome variables were the gains to active shoulder range of motions (ROM) and UCLA scores (and all its subscores, independently), at a minimum follow-up of two years. A p value < .05 was considered to be statistically significant.

RESULTS

At a mean follow-up of 25 months, both groups have shown improvements to most variables. However, group two (modified technique) achieved greater improvements to UCLA score (p = .009), active external rotation (p = .006) and internal rotation (p = .008).

CONCLUSION

At mid-term follow-up, improvements to outcomes of the modified (single approach, allograft-enhanced) latissimus dorsi transfer were greater than those of the original technique.

Early postoperative recovery comparisons of superior capsule reconstruction to tendon transfers

BACKGROUND

The management of massive posterosuperior rotator cuff tears is controversial, with no gold standard. Two recently developed techniques that have shown promising initial results include arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) and tendon transfers (latissimus or lower trapezius). However, there remains a scarcity of studies examining each procedure's early postoperative clinical outcomes individually or in comparison to each other. The purpose of this study is to compare the early postoperative recovery outcomes of tendon transfers (TTs) to SCR.

METHODS

Using the surgical outcomes system global database (Arthrex Inc.), we assessed the postoperative recovery outcomes for all patients who had outcomes recorded at least 6 months after SCR or TT. The time points analyzed included preoperative and postoperative (2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years). The outcomes analyzed included pain visual analog scale (VAS) score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES) score, VR-12 physical, and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE).

RESULTS

Overall, 163 patients underwent SCR and 24 arthroscopically assisted TT. The mean age for SCR and TT was 60 and 56 years, respectively. Postoperative recovery curves demonstrate that both procedures produced improved outcomes at each postoperative time point compared to preoperative. The pain and functional outcomes measures, including VAS, ASES, SANE, and VR-12 physical, were comparable for TT and SCRs, with similar recovery curves between the 2 techniques. Ultimately at 2 years postoperatively, there were no significant differences between the 2 techniques.

CONCLUSIONS

Analysis of the early outcomes associated with arthroscopic treatment of massive posterosuperior rotator cuff tears demonstrated that the arthroscopically assisted tendon transfers and arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction had similar pain and functional outcomes throughout the 2-year postoperative recovery period. Overall, the process of recovery appears equivalent between the 2 techniques. Future studies are needed to assess the outcomes of each technique and specific indications in an attempt to delineate an algorithm for the treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears.

Management of Irreparable Posterosuperior Rotator Cuff Tears-A Current Concepts Review and Proposed Treatment Algorithm by the AGA Shoulder Committee

Posterosuperior rotator cuff tears range among the most common causes of shoulder complaints. While non-operative treatment is typically reserved for the elderly patient with low functional demands, surgical treatment is considered the gold standard for active patients. More precisely, an anatomic rotator cuff repair (RCR) is considered the most desirable treatment option and should be generally attempted during surgery. If an anatomic RCR is impossible, the adequate choice of treatment for irreparable rotator cuff tears remains a matter of debate among shoulder surgeons. Following a critical review of the contemporary literature, the authors suggest the following evidence- and experience-based treatment recommendation. In the non-functional, osteoarthritic shoulder, treatment strategies in the management of irreparable posterosuperior RCT include debridement-based procedures and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty as the treatment of choice. Joint-preserving procedures aimed at restoring glenohumeral biomechanics and function should be reserved for the non-osteoarthritic shoulder. Prior to these procedures, however, patients should be counseled about deteriorating results over time. Recent innovations such as the superior capsule reconstruction and the implantation of a subacromial spacer show promising short-term results, yet future studies with long-term follow-up are required to derive stronger recommendations.

Management of Massive Rotator Cuff Tears Without Arthropathy

Arthroplasty is not an optimal treatment for massive rotator cuff tears in patients who are active and without glenohumeral arthritis. Several surgical techniques have been developed for these patients, including arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with single-/double-row repair (with or without interval slides, margin convergence, graft augmentation), graft bridging, superior capsular reconstruction, tuberoplasty, and tendon transfers. Complete, tension-free, anatomic repair is ideal; however, tendon atrophy and retraction associated with massive tears often complicate repairs. All surgical treatments significantly increase patient-reported functional outcomes 1 year after intervention, with many treatments demonstrating improved mid-term and long-term outcomes. [Orthopedics. 2023;46(1):e1-e12.].

Nonarthroplasty options for massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears have improvement in range of motion and patient-reported outcomes at short-term follow-up: a systematic review

PURPOSE

To compare various nonarthroplasty treatment options for massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears, including allograft bridging/augmentation, debridement, partial repair, superior capsule reconstruction (SCR), subacromial balloon spacer, and tendon transfer.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted through the PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases for all articles pertaining to nonarthroplasty treatment options for irreparable rotator cuff tears. Inclusion criteria included manuscripts published between 2009 and 2020 with at least 1 year follow-up and Level I-IV evidence. Articles were separated into six groups: debridement, arthroscopic and open repair, allograft bridging/augmentation, SCR, subacromial balloon spacer, and tendon transfer. Data points included range of motion (external rotation, abduction, forward flexion, and internal rotation), visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Constant score, rate of revision surgery, and rate of conversion to arthroplasty.

RESULTS

A total of 83 studies and 3363 patients were included. All treatment options had statistically significant improvements in postoperative range of motion and patient-reported outcomes. Debridement had statistically significantly greater postoperative abduction and forward flexion range of motion, as well as better VAS pain scores, compared to the other treatment options. The SCR subgroup had the greatest improvement in ASES scores postoperatively. The overall revision rate was 7.2% among all surgical options, with the allograft bridging/augmentation group having the lowest rate of revision at 0-8.3%. The overall rate of conversion to arthroplasty was 7.2%, with debridement having the greatest rate of conversion at 15.4%.

CONCLUSION

All six nonarthroplasty treatment options for irreparable rotator cuff tears resulted in statistically significant improvements in range of motion and patient-reported outcomes at 1 year follow-up or more, with low rates of revision and conversion to arthroplasty. Debridement had statistically significantly greater postoperative abduction and forward flexion range of motion, as well as better VAS pain scores, compared to the other treatment options. However, these conclusions should be interpreted with caution due to the heterogeneous nature of the data, lack of prospective randomized control trials, and short-term follow-up. The findings of this study highlight the complexity of irreparable, massive rotator cuff tears, and the need for an individualized approach when treating these patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Resultados da transferência do grande dorsal alongado com enxerto tendíneo homólogo por via delto-peitoral para lesões póstero-superiores irreparáveis do manguito rotador

Objective  The primary aim of the present study is to evaluate the functional results of a modification to the latissimus dorsi (LD) transfer around the shoulder for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. The secondary aim is to evaluate variables that might influence the outcomes.

Surgical Technique  Through a single deltopectoral approach, the LD tendon is detached, reinforced, and elongated with a tendinous allograft, transferred around the humerus, and fixed superolaterally to the greater tuberosity and anteriorly to the subscapularis.

Methods  Retrospective functional evaluation of 16 cases. The average follow-up was 21 months (12–47). The postoperative results (at last follow-up) were compared with the preoperative ones, as well as to other pre, intra, and postoperative variables.

Results  All (but one) patients were satisfied. Average University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) score increased from 11.6 (8–16) to 27.3 (17–30) ( p  < 0.001). Improvements of shoulder pain, function, and strength achieved statistical significance ( p  < 0.001). Nonetheless, normal strength was never restored. Average active range of motion improved as follows: forward elevation, from 106° (60–140°) to 145° (130–160°) ( p  < 0.001); external rotation from 30° (0° to 60°) to 54° (40–70°) ( p  < 0.001); and internal rotation from L1 (gluteus to T7) to T10 (T12–T3) ( p  < 0.05). No complication has occurred. Preoperative pseudoparesis was reverted in all the six cases in which it was present. None of the variables analyzed influenced the outcomes, including pseudoparesis.

Conclusions  At early follow-up, this technique is safe and effective at recovering from pseudoparesis and at improving shoulder pain, function, and strength.

[Latissimus dorsi transfer with a modified single-incision Herzberg technique and description of its arthroscopic advancement]

OBJECTIVE

Latissimus dorsi transfer aims to reduce pain and improve function for irreparable tears of the posterosuperior rotator cuff by restoring the transversal force couple to improve external rotation and delaying superior migration of the humeral head.

INDICATIONS

Surgery is advocated in patients with unbearable shoulder pain and limited external rotation caused by an irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tear. Usually, a latissimus transfer is recommended in the presence of superior migration of the humeral head, higher grade fatty infiltration of the rotator cuff and a restriction of range of motion and strength for abduction and external rotation. Advantages of the arthroscopically assisted technique are the missing need of detaching the deltoid from its origin, smaller incisions and therapy of concomitant intraarticular lesions.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Little pain and sufficient shoulder function in massive posterosuperior rotator cuff tears do not necessitate latissimus transfer. In the presence of subscapularis tears, osteoarthritis and deltoid dysfunction as well as shoulder stiffness tendon transfer are associated with inferior clinical outcomes.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

Surgery is performed in prone position. The incision is made about 5 cm caudal of the posterolateral corner of the acromion and extends over 6 cm at the inferior border of the deltoid muscle. After exploration and protection of the axillary and radial nerve the latissimus tendon is peeled off of the humerus. The medial part of the latissimus is then mobilized to gain length for the later transfer. Afterwards the footprint of the infraspinatus is visualized and debrided. Two or three suture anchors are placed into the posterosuperior aspect of the greater tuberosity. The sutures are stitched through the tendon in a horizontal mattress stitch configuration and the tendon tied onto the bone. In arthroscopic advancement, the patient is placed in an upright beach-chair position with the arm attached to an arm holder. After debridement of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus footprint, arthroscopic preparation at the anterior border of the subscapularis tendon is performed. The latissimus tendon is visualized and detached with electrocautery. Afterwards the interval between posterior rotator cuff and deltoid muscle is prepared to allow the transfer of the latissimus tendon to the posterosuperior footprint. This marks the transition to the open approach, in which the arm is placed in a flexed and internally rotated position.

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT

Immobilization in a shoulder sling for 3 weeks. Early passive range of motion (ROM: flexion 30°, internal rotation 60°, abduction 0°, external rotation 0°) was immediately allowed. After 3 weeks, passive ROM was increased to 90° of flexion, 60° of abduction, whereas external rotation was still restricted. After 7 weeks, free passive ROM and after 8 weeks active ROM (assisted) were allowed.

RESULTS

In all, 67 patients (mean age 63 years) were examined 54 months (± 28) after open transfer of the latissimus dorsi tendon. Constant score improved from 24 (± 6) points to 68 (± 17) points. Active flexion increased from 83° (± 47°) to 144° (± 35°), abduction from 69° (± 33°) to 134° (± 42°) and external rotation from 24° (± 18°) to 35° (± 21°). The VAS score decreased from 6.3 (± 1.1) to 1.8 (± 2). However, osteoarthritis worsened over time and the Hamada-Fukuda stage increased from 1.4 to 2.1 and the acromihumeral distance decreased from 7.9 (± 2.6) to 5.1 (± 2.2) at final follow-up.

Arthroscopic debridement for management of massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears: a systematic review of outcomes

Background

Surgical management of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears remains controversial. Arthroscopic debridement (AD) has shown promising results especially in the population older than 65 years; however, there is no consensus on the benefits of various AD procedures. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the functional midterm to long-term outcomes in patients treated with AD in combination with subacromial decompression, biceps tenotomy, tuberoplasty, or bursectomy, without repair of the rotator cuff tear.

Methods

A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and Cochrane databases for studies reporting clinical outcomes of AD of massive rotator cuff tears. Quality was determined using the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies (MINORS) criteria by two independent reviewers. Pooled frequency-weighted means and standard deviations were calculated for patient-reported outcomes.

Results

Sixteen articles containing 643 patients and 662 shoulders met the eligibility criteria. The mean age at the time of surgery was 65.9 ± 4.4 years with a mean follow-up period of 46.5 ± 27.3 months. There was notable clinically significant improvement across all patient-reported outcome scores postoperatively: Constant 70.4 ± 8.9 (P value = .06), University of California, Los Angeles ultrasonography 26.7 ± 5.2 (P value = .001), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score 71.7 ± 2.1 (P value = .12), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score 35.3, and visual analog score 1.7 ± 0.9. Forty-nine patients (7%) required reoperation, which most commonly was a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for the development of rotator cuff arthropathy.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic debridement with a combination of subacromial decompression, tuberoplasty, subacromial bursectomy, and biceps tenotomy, for treatment of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, produces good functional outcomes and improvement in pain at mid to long term follow up for the low-demand population greater than 65 years of age looking for pain relief over substantial increase in function.

Graft-Augmented Repair of Irreparable Massive Rotator Cuff Tears with Latissimus Dorsi Transfer to Treat Pseudoparesis

Irreparable massive rotator cuff tears are characterized by a poor prognosis with high failure rates following repair. Numerous strategies, such as partial repair, graft interposition, latissimus dorsi (LD) transfer, balloon arthroplasty, and superior capsular reconstruction, have been proposed. We have adopted a graft-augmented LD-transfer procedure, in which partial repair, graft interposition, and LD transfer are performed simultaneously.

Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty with Concurrent Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Transfer

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) has emerged as an effective treatment option for patients with rotator cuff arthropathy resulting from irreparable rotator cuff tears. However, patients with combined loss of abduction and external rotation may still experience functional deficits after rTSA. One option to address this has been the latissimus dorsi tendon transfer (LDTT), or modified L'Episcopo procedure. The purpose of this review is to describe the role of LDTT with rTSA and to critically evaluate the evidence on whether a supplemental LDTT ultimately improves patient function.

RECENT FINDINGS

Patients with an intact rotator cuff demonstrated a significant increase in active external rotation following rTSA compared to those with a deficient rotator cuff following rTSA. Compared to their pre-operative baseline assessments, patients who undergo rTSA with LDTT report significant improvements in active external rotation. However, a randomized trial comparing rTSA patients with and without LDTT failed to demonstrate a significant difference in active external rotation or patient-reported outcomes between groups. Observational studies have shown that patients experience significant improvements in active range of motion and various patient-reported outcome measures following rTSA with latissimus dorsi tendon transfer. When directly comparing rTSA with LDTT to rTSA alone, the current literature fails to demonstrate a statistically significant difference in active external rotation or patient-reported outcomes at short-term follow-up. Further randomized controlled trials are required to fully understand the potential benefits of added tendon transfer in the rTSA patient population.

Achilles Tendon Allograft for Superior Capsule Reconstruction in Irreparable Massive Rotator Cuff Tears

Backgroud

Treatment remains a challenge in massive and irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCTs), and superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) has become an increasingly popular choice. The objective of this study was to evaluate clinical and radiological outcomes after SCR using an Achilles tendon allograft in irreparable massive RCTs.

Methods

From December 2015 to March 2018, 11 patients (mean age, 66.3 ± 5.8 years) with irreparable massive RCTs who underwent SCR using an Achilles tendon allograft were enrolled in this study. The range of motion (ROM), visual analog scale (VAS), clinical scores, muscle strength, and acromiohumeral distance (AHD) were measured preoperatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months, and final follow-up postoperatively. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed preoperatively and at 6 months postoperatively to assess the global fatty degeneration index and graft failure. Ultrasonography was also conducted preoperatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months, and final follow-up postoperatively to assess graft continuity.

Results

The mean follow-up period was 27.6 months (range, 24–32 months). The shoulder ROM at final follow-up increased significantly in forward flexion (p = 0.023), external rotation (p = 0.018), internal rotation (p = 0.016), and abduction (p = 0.011). All patients showed improvement in VAS score (p = 0.005) and clinical scores (p < 0.001) compared with the preoperative state. Pseudoparalysis improved in all patients. The AHD was 3.88 mm (± 1.21 mm) preoperatively, 7.75 mm (± 1.52 mm, p = 0.014) at 6 months postoperatively, and 6.37 mm (± 1.72 mm, p = 0.031) at final follow-up. Graft removal and synovectomy were performed in 1 patient who developed postoperative infections. Radiological failure on follow-up MRI occurred in 2 patients at 6 and 12 months postoperatively, respectively.

Conclusions

SCR using an Achilles tendon allograft in irreparable massive RCTs achieved functional and clinical improvement. The use of Achilles tendon allograft also has the advantages of short operation time without donor site morbidity, sufficient thickness, and robustness; therefore, this allograft can be a useful graft for SCR.

Clinical outcomes of latissimus dorsi tendon transfer and superior capsular reconstruction for irreparable rotator cuff tears: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Functionally irreparable rotator cuff tears (FIRCTs) present an ongoing challenge to the orthopedic surgeon. The aim of this systematic review was to critically compare the outcomes of three latissimus dorsi tendon transfer (LDT) techniques and two superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) techniques in treatment of FIRCTs.

METHODS

A systematic review of studies evaluating the outcome of FIRCT treatment was performed via a search of four databases in April 2020. Each included study was reviewed in duplicate by two reviewers for evaluation of methodological quality. The treatments analyzed were arthroscopic LDT (aLDT), open LDT Gerber technique (oLDTG), open LDT L'Episcopo technique (oLDTL), SCR with allograft (SCR-Allo), and SCR with autograft (SCR-TFL). Demographics, range of motion, patient-reported outcome measures, radiographic acromiohumeral distance (AHD), treatment failures, and revisions were recorded.

RESULTS

Forty-six studies (1287 shoulders) met criteria for inclusion. Twenty-three studies involved open latissimus transfer, with 445 shoulders undergoing oLDTG with mean follow-up of 63.2 months and 60 patients undergoing oLDTL with mean follow-up of 51.8 months. Ten studies (n = 369, F/U 29.2mo) reported on aLDT. Seven studies (n = 253, F/U 16.9mo) concerned SCR-Allo, and six studies (n = 160, F/U 32.mo) reported on SCR-TFL. Range of motion and subjective outcome scores improved in all techniques with no differences across treatments. Both SCR methods provided greater improvement in AHD than open LDT methods (p < 0.01). The re-tear rates were lower in both oLDT groups compared to the SCR groups (p = 0.03). Clinical failure rates were higher in the SCR-Allo and oLDTG groups, while overall treatment failures were lowest in oLDTL compared to all four other groups.

CONCLUSION

SCR techniques were associated with improved short-term radiographic acromiohumeral distance, while the open LDT techniques had lower tendon re-tear and treatment failure rates. All techniques resulted in improved clinical outcomes and pain relief compared to preoperative levels with no differences across techniques.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

Systematic review of case series and cohort studies.

Current Options in Tendon Transfers for Irreparable Posterosuperior Rotator Cuff Tears

Massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator-cuff tears are debilitating lesions that usually require surgical treatment. Even though there is no consensus regarding the best surgical technique, tendinous transfers around the shoulder are the most commonly performed procedures. The latissimus dorsi tendon remains the most commonly used, but different modifications to the original technique have been shown to minimize complications and to improve functional results and satisfaction. Other techniques, such as the transfer of the lower trapezius tendon, are promising and should be considered, especially for patients with isolated loss of external rotation. The present paper is a literary review regarding tendon transfers for irreparable posterosuperior rotator-cuff tears.

Graft healing does not influence subjective outcomes and shoulder kinematics after superior capsule reconstruction: a prospective in vivo kinematic study

BACKGROUND

A viable treatment option for young patients with massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears is arthroscopic superior capsule reconstruction (SCR). SCR theoretically improves shoulder stability and function and decreases pain. However, no prospective studies to date have correlated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) healing with in vivo kinematic data. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between graft healing and in vivo kinematics, range of motion (ROM), strength, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs).

METHODS

Ten patients (8 men and 2 women; mean age, 63 ± 7 years) with irreparable rotator cuff tears underwent arthroscopic SCR with dermal allograft. Strength was measured with isometric internal rotation and external rotation (ER) at 0° of abduction, ER at 90° of abduction, and scapular-plane abduction, whereas ROM was measured during shoulder flexion, abduction, and ER and internal rotation at 90° of abduction both before and 1 year after SCR. PROs included American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand surveys that were collected before and 1 year after SCR. Synchronized biplane radiographs were collected at 50 images/s before and 1 year after SCR while patients performed 3 trials of scapular-plane abduction. A validated volumetric tracking technique with submillimeter accuracy determined 6-df glenohumeral and scapular kinematics. The acromiohumeral distance (AHD), humeral head translation, and scapulohumeral rhythm (SHR) were calculated from the in vivo kinematics. Healing at 5 locations was evaluated on 1-year postoperative MRI scans: anterior and posterior glenoid, anterior and posterior humerus, and posteriorly along the infraspinatus. Each subject was given a score from 0 to 5 based on number of sites healed.

RESULTS

Of the 10 patients, 9 (90%) had complete (n = 4) or partial (n = 5) healing of the graft whereas 1 (10%) had complete failure at the glenoid. No correlation existed between MRI healing and the AHD, SHR, strength, ROM, or PROs. American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores all significantly improved from before to 1 year after SCR regardless of graft healing.

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of complete or partial graft healing on MRI mimics findings of prior reports in the literature. MRI healing was correlated with humeral head anterior-posterior translation but not with the static and dynamic AHDs, SHR, humeral head superior-inferior translation, ROM, strength, or PROs 1 year after SCR. All PROs improved significantly from before to 1 year after SCR regardless of graft status on MRI. In vivo kinematic changes were small after SCR and not clinically significant, and the data suggest that improvements in clinical and functional outcomes may occur in the absence of full graft healing.

Posterior latissimus dorsi transfer for massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears: does it work in the elderly population? A comparative study between 2 age groups (≤55 vs. ≥75 years old)

HYPOTHESIS AND/OR BACKGROUND

Management of irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears (RCTs) presents a significant challenge to shoulder surgeons. Previous studies on latissimus dorsi transfer (LDT) have demonstrated good to excellent outcomes in younger patients, but this indication is debatable in the elderly. The main objective of this study was to compare the results of LDT in a group of patients aged ≤55 years vs. one of patients aged ≥75 years. We hypothesized that LDT could give equally good results in the elderly as in the younger population.

METHODS

Between 2014 and 2017, a total of 153 patients who underwent LDT either for irreparable posterosuperior RCT or for failed prior repair were enrolled. All LDTs were performed by a single surgeon, were arthroscopically assisted, and fixed onto the humeral head with 2 anchors. A retrospective comparative clinical study was conducted. Patients with a minimum of 24 months of follow-up were divided into 2 groups: group A (≤55 years old at surgery) and group B (≥75 years old at surgery). The age-adjusted Constant-Murley score (aCMS), Subjective Score Value (SSV), Simple Shoulder Test (SST), Activities of Daily Living requiring active External Rotation (ADLER) score, visual analog scale for pain (VAS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES) score, patient's satisfaction, and rate of LD tendon rupture at last follow-up were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 66 patients met inclusion criteria. Four in 66 patients (6%) were lost to follow-up. There were 31 patients in group A and 31 patients in group B. The mean age was 52 and 77 years for the respective groups. Preoperatively, the 2 groups were comparable with respect to other characteristics like the mean number of ruptured tendons, mean preoperative Hamada stage, mean SST, and mean aCMS. The mean follow-up was 33 and 31 months, respectively. At last follow-up, there was no significant difference in the scores evaluated between groups A and B with SSV (61 vs. 66.7 points), ADLER (23 vs. 26.4 points), VAS (2.8 vs. 2.2 points), and ASES (64.4 vs. 72.4 points), respectively, except for the aCMS (75 vs. 96.3; ±001) and the SST (6.2 vs. 8.3; P < .001). Patient's satisfaction was not significantly different in both groups (81% of either satisfied or very satisfied patients in both groups). The rate of LD tendon rupture was higher in group A: 10 (33%) vs. 8 (26%).

CONCLUSION

Posterior transfer of latissimus dorsi tendon could be an effective surgical option for the treatment of massive irreparable posterosuperior cuff tears in patients ≥75 years of age.

Management of irreparable massive rotator cuff tears: a systematic review and meta-analysis of patient-reported outcomes, reoperation rates, and treatment response

BACKGROUND

There is no consensus on the treatment of irreparable massive rotator cuff tears. The goal of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to (1) compare patient-reported outcome scores, (2) define failure and reoperation rates, and (3) quantify the magnitude of patient response across treatment strategies.

METHODS

The MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials), and Scopus databases were searched for studies including physical therapy and operative treatment of massive rotator cuff tears. The criteria of the Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies were used to assess study quality. Primary outcome measures were patient-reported outcome scores as well as failure, complication, and reoperation rates. To quantify patient response to treatment, we compared changes in the Constant-Murley score and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score with previously reported minimal clinically important difference (MCID) thresholds.

RESULTS

No level I or II studies that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were found. Physical therapy was associated with a 30% failure rate among the included patients, and another 30% went on to undergo surgery. Partial repair was associated with a 45% retear rate and 10% reoperation rate. Only graft interposition was associated with a weighted average change that exceeded the MCID for both the Constant-Murley score and ASES score. Latissimus tendon transfer techniques using humeral bone tunnel fixation were associated with a 77% failure rate. Superior capsular reconstruction with fascia lata autograft was associated with a weighted average change that exceeded the MCID for the ASES score. Reverse arthroplasty was associated with a 10% prosthesis failure rate and 8% reoperation rate.

CONCLUSION

There is a lack of high-quality comparative studies to guide treatment recommendations. Compared with surgery, physical therapy is associated with less improvement in perceived functional outcomes and a higher clinical failure rate.

Superior Capsule Reconstruction for Irreparable Massive Rotator Cuff Tears: Does It Make Sense? A Systematic Review of Early Clinical Evidence

BACKGROUND

Treatment of irreparable massive rotator cuff tears (MRCTs) in patients without advanced glenohumeral osteoarthritis remains a challenge. Arthroscopic superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) represents a newer method for treatment with increasing popularity and acceptance.

PURPOSE

To analyze the clinical evidence surrounding SCR and determine the current clinical outcomes postoperatively.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Electronic databases of PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Google Scholar were used for the literature search. The study quality was evaluated according to the Modified Coleman Methodology Score. Studies in English evaluating SCR outcomes were included.

RESULTS

Seven studies were reviewed, including 352 patients (358 shoulders) treated with arthroscopic SCR with the mean duration of follow-up ranging from 15 to 48 months (range, 12-88 months). Fourteen patients were lost to follow-up, leaving 338 patients (344 shoulders) with clinical outcome data. Graft types included dermal allografts (n = 3 studies), fascia lata autografts (n = 3), or both (n = 1). Most commonly, a double-row technique was utilized for humeral graft fixation. The most common complication included graft tears in 13% of patients, resulting in 15 SCR revisions and 7 reverse shoulder arthroplasties. Postoperatively, improvements in visual analog scale (2.5 to 5.9), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (20 to 56), Japanese Orthopaedic Association (38.0), Subjective Shoulder Value (37.0 to 41.3), and Constant (11.6 to 47.4) scores were observed. Three studies reported respective satisfaction rates of 72.9%, 85.7% and 90%. Increases in external rotation, internal rotation, and abduction with improved strength in external rotation were observed postoperatively. Improvement of pseudoparalysis was also observed in 3 studies. One study reported return to sports in 100% of patients (2 competitively, 24 recreationally) with no adverse outcomes.

CONCLUSION

SCR showed good to excellent short-term clinical outcomes with adequate pain relief and functional improvement. The current evidence suggests that the procedure is an alternative for symptomatic patients with irreparable MRCT; however, the included studies were fair to poor in quality, and there were some notable complications. Long-term follow-up will determine the longevity and ultimate role of this new method in the treatment of irreparable MRCT.

Outcome of arthroscopically assisted lower trapezius transfer to reconstruct massive irreparable posterior-superior rotator cuff tears

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study is to report the outcome of arthroscopically assisted lower trapezius transfer to reconstruct irreparable posterior-superior rotator cuff tear.

METHODS

Forty-one consecutive patients with irreparable posterior-superior rotator cuff tears who underwent an arthroscopically assisted transfer of the lower trapezius transfer were included in this study. The patients' average age was 52 years (range 37-71), and average follow-up was 14 months (range 6-19 months). Nineteen patients had true pseudoparalysis preoperatively, whereas 66% had a prior failed rotator cuff repair. Outcome measures included visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, range of motion, Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven (90%) patients had significant improvement of all outcome scores: VAS, SSV, and DASH. The presence of a subscapularis tear did not affect the outcome. However, 3 patients who had preoperative rotator cuff arthropathy changes of the shoulder had persistent pain and limited range of motion of the shoulder after surgery, and 2 of them underwent reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Two additional patients had a traumatic rupture of the transfer as a result of fall (at 5 and 8 months postop). One underwent revision arthroscopic repair and did well after surgery, and the other had good pain relief but recurrent weakness and limited range of motion, and elected not to have a revision surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic-assisted lower trapezius transfer may lead to a good outcome in patients with massive irreparable posterior-superior rotator cuff tears, including patients with pseudoparalysis. The presence of an associated reparable subscapularis tear did not affect the outcome.

Surgical Management of Massive Irreparable Posterosuperior Rotator Cuff Tears: Arthroscopic-Assisted Lower Trapezius Transfer

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW

Functionally irreparable rotator cuff tears (FIRCTs) remain one of the most challenging pathologies treated in the shoulder. The lower trapezius transfer represents a very promising treatment option for posterosuperior FIRCT. This article reviews the role for the lower trapezius transfer in the treatment of patient with FIRCTs and highlights the tips and tricks to performing this arthroscopic-assisted procedure.

RECENT FINDINGS

The treatment of posterosuperior FIRCTs contemplates a wide array of surgical options, including partial repair, biceps tenodesis/tenotomy, superior capsule reconstruction, subacromial balloon, reverse shoulder arthroplasty, and open-/arthroscopic-assisted tendon transfers. Tendon transfers have emerged as very promising reconstructive options to rebalance the anterior-posterior force couple. Controversy remains regarding the relative indications of latissimus dorsi transfer (LDT) and lower trapezius transfer (LTT). Initially used with very good success in patients with brachial plexus injuries, the open LTT has shown excellent clinical and radiographic outcomes in a recent series of patients with FIRCTs. However, this technique should be reserved for patients with an intact or reparable subscapularis tendon and no advanced glenohumeral arthritis or humeral head femoralization. With advancements in surgical technique, the arthroscopic-assisted LTT has shown similar promising results. However, studies on arthroscopically assisted LTT are limited to short-term follow-up, and future comparative trials with large patient numbers and longer follow-up are needed to better understand the indications for this novel tendon transfer in the treatment of FIRCT. The arthroscopic-assisted LTT is a novel, promising option for the treatment of patients with functional irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. Careful attention to indications and technical pearls are paramount when performing this procedure to optimize postoperative clinical outcomes.

The Postoperative Rotator Cuff

MR imaging interpretation following rotator cuff repair can be challenging and requires familiarity with various types of rotator cuff tear, their surgical treatments, normal postoperative MR imaging appearance, and complications. This article reviews the common surgical procedures for the reparable and nonreparable massive rotator cuff tears, their expected postoperative MR imaging findings, and imaging appearance of a range of complications.

Long-term outcomes of latissimus dorsi transfer for irreparable rotator cuff tears

PURPOSE

The primary objective of this retrospective study was to validate electrophysiological results of latissimus dorsi tendon transfer (LDTT) to determine if this transfer is active for different daily living tasks, and the secondary objective was to correlate these clinical results.

METHODS

With a mean follow-up of 4.7 years, 14 latissimus dorsi tendon transfers were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were clinically evaluated with the constant score and the SSV. Healing of the tendon on the greater tuberosity and atrophy of the LDTT muscle was determined by ultrasound and compared with the contralateral side. Electrical activity was analyzed by electromyography in active elevation, abduction, and external rotation.

RESULTS

Twelve patients are satisfied (SSV). At the last follow-up, the EMG found a significant electrical activity in the abduction and external rotation and a lower activity in adduction and internal rotation. The mean constant score increased from 29 to 51, the mean forward elevation increased from 89° to 135°, the mean abduction from 92° to 105°, and the external rotation from 12° to 24°. The ultrasound found 12 healed tendons and two ruptures at the myotendinous junction.

CONCLUSION

Electrical activity in abduction and external rotation testifies that the LDT transfer acts as an active muscle transfer and acts not only a muscle tenodesis that covers the humeral head.

Risk of latissimus dorsi tendon rupture after arthroscopic transfer for posterior superior rotator cuff tear: a comparative analysis of 3 humeral head fixation techniques

BACKGROUND

To compare latissimus dorsi tendon rupture rates after arthroscopic transfer for posterior superior rotator cuff tear using 3 different humeral head fixation techniques.

METHODS

One-hundred fifty consecutive latissimus dorsi transfers were included. Inclusion criteria were massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tear with advanced fatty infiltration associated with persistent pain and limited range of motion after failed conservative treatments or surgery. All transfers were arthroscopically assisted and fixed in a transosseous tunnel with a cortical button (group 1, n = 59), "over the top" onto the footprint of the supraspinatus (group 2, n = 47), or posteriorly onto the footprint of the infraspinatus (group 3, n = 44) with 2 suture anchors. The tendons were marked with 3 metallic clips placed intraoperatively at a fixed distance of 2, 4, and 6 cm from the tip. Immediate postoperative standard anteroposterior radiographs were performed to confirm the position of the clips and to determine whether the clips displaced on subsequent radiographs during follow-up, indicating tendon rupture.

RESULTS

Repeat radiographs at 3-month follow-up showed higher risk of latissimus dorsi transfer rupture rate in 27/59 patients in group 1 (46%), 11/47 in group 2 (24%), and 7/44 in group 3 (15%).

CONCLUSION

Posterior anchor fixation of the latissimus dorsi tendon onto the infraspinatus footprint had the lowest rupture rate.

3D motion analysis of latissimus dorsi tendon transfer in patients with posterosuperior rotator cuff tears: Analysis of proprioception and the ability to perform ADLS

BACKGROUND

Massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears may result in a loss of external rotation. Most of these patients lose their ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), especially where external rotation and abduction are needed. Latissimus dorsi tendon transfer (LDTT) is a method to restore abduction and external rotation in patients with posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. There are no objective data concerning whether LDTT can restore range of motion (ROM), especially in performing ADLs and if proprioception changes after LDTT.

METHODS

We examined 12 patients 4.2 years (1-9 years) after LDTT with simultaneous 3D motion analysis; the opposite, nonaffected side was assessed as control. The measurement protocol included maximum values in flexion/extension, abduction/adduction, internal/external rotation in 0° and in 90° flexion and in 90° abduction. To evaluate competences, we measured seven activities of daily life and examined the proprioceptive ability using an active angle reproduction test.

RESULTS

In total, 4.2 years (1-9 years) after LDTT there was no significant difference in flexion/extension and abduction/adduction compared to the healthy side. Maximum external rotation was significantly reduced compared to the opposite side. Eleven patients (85%) were able to perform all ADL. Proprioceptive ability did not differ from the healthy side.

CONCLUSION

LDTT cannot fully restore a patient's ability for external rotation after a posterosuperior rotator cuff tear. However, 4.2 years after surgery, 85% of the patients are able to perform all ADLs. Proprioceptive ability is not affected by the transfer.

Low level of evidence for all treatment modalities for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears

PURPOSE

This systematic review assesses evidence for improvements in outcome for all reported types of treatment modalities [physical therapy, tenotomy or tenodesis of the long head of the biceps, debridement, partial repair, subacromial spacer, deltoid flap, muscle transfer, rotator cuff advancement, graft interposition, superior capsular reconstruction (SCR), and reversed shoulder arthroplasty (RSA)] used for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears without glenohumeral osteoarthritis. The primary aim was to be able to inform patients about expectations of the amount of clinical improvement after these treatments.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Cochrane databases for studies on irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff lesions without glenohumeral osteoarthritis, published from January 2007 until January 2019, with minimum 2-year follow-up. Studies with pre-operative and/or intra-operative determination of cuff tear irreparability were included. We defined the non-adjusted Constant Score as the primary outcome.

RESULTS

Sixty studies (2000 patients) were included with a fair mean quality score, according to the Modified Coleman Methodology Score. The employed definitions of 'irreparable' were mainly based on MRI criteria and were highly variable among studies. The smallest weighted mean preoperative to post-operative improvements in Constant Score were reported for biceps tenotomy/tenodesis (10.7 points) and physical therapy (13.0). These were followed by debridement (21.8) and muscle transfer (27.8), whereas the largest increases were reported for partial repair (32.0), subacromial spacer (32.5), rotator cuff advancement (33.2), RSA (34.4), graft reconstruction (35.0), deltoid flap (39.8), and SCR (47.4). Treatment using deltoid flap showed highest mean weighted improvement in Constant Score among studies with available medium-term (4-5-year) follow-up. Treatments deltoid flap, muscle transfer, and debridement were the only treatments with available long-term (8-10-year) follow-up and showed similar improvements in Constant Score at this time point.

CONCLUSION

The variability in patient characteristics, co-interventions, outcome reporting, and length of follow-up in studies on irreparable rotator cuff tears without osteoarthritis complicates sound comparison of treatments. Clinically important treatment effects were seen for all 11 different treatment modalities.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Latissimus dorsi transfer for massive posterosuperior rotator cuff tears: what affects the postoperative outcome?

BACKGROUND

The management of irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears (IPSRCTs) in young active individuals is still a challenge. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of sex, surgical technique, previous surgical procedures, tear genesis, and presence of a preoperative external rotation lag sign on the functional outcome after latissimus dorsi transfer (LDT) for IPSRCTs.

METHODS

Retrospectively, all patients with IPSRCTs treated with LDT during a 10-year period were followed up. Preoperative evaluation included the visual analog scale (VAS) score, range of motion, and the Constant score (CS). Postoperatively, the VAS score, range of motion, CS, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, and Subjective Shoulder Value were recorded. Preoperative and postoperative radiologic evaluation was performed using the Hamada-Fukuda classification and the acromiohumeral interval.

RESULTS

In total, 67 of 79 patients (85%), with a mean age of 63 years, were available for follow-up at 54 ± 28 months. The CS improved from 24 ± 6 points preoperatively to 68 ± 17 points at follow-up (P < .001). Active flexion increased from 83° ± 47° to 144° ± 35°; abduction, from 69° ± 33° to 134° ± 42°; and external rotation, from 24° ± 18° to 35° ± 21°. Postoperatively, the Subjective Shoulder Value was 69% ± 19% and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score was 76 ± 21. The VAS score decreased from 6.3 ± 1.1 to 1.8 ± 2 (P < .001). Abduction strength increased from 0.4 ± 0.4 kg to 3.6 ± 2.2 kg (P < .001). The acromiohumeral interval decreased from 7.9 ± 2.6 mm to 5.1 ± 2.2 mm, and arthropathy worsened from Hamada-Fukuda stage 1.4 to stage 2.1. The rate of conversion to a reverse prosthesis was 6%.

CONCLUSION

LDT represents a reliable and reproducible treatment option with good clinical midterm results after surgical treatment. Sex, genesis, preoperative presence of an external rotation lag sign, and previous surgical procedures do not affect the overall clinical outcome.

[Transfer of latissimus dorsi muscle for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff defects in older patients : Medium term results]

OBJECTIVE

Is transfer of the latissimus dorsi muscle (LDT) a good option in older patients with irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears?

MATERIAL AND METHOD

In 2010-2016 a total of 25 patients without glenohumeral arthritis and non-reconstructable supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons, a recentered glenohumeral joint with remaining function in anteversion and irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff defects were treated using LDT at the Rummelsberg Hospital. Of the patients 9 (36%) had in the past 1 or more attempts at reconstruction of the rotator cuff. All other patients (64%) underwent a primary reconstruction using LDT. The patients had an average age of 61 years and average follow up of 32 months. Of the 25 patients 24 (96%) were clinically followed up with the constant score (CS) and the visual analogue scale (VAS). The operation was performed in the technique described by Gerber to raise the latissimus dorsi but in the beach-chair position. Follow-up treatment was performed for 6 weeks using the ACRO-Assist splint (shoulder brace) in 90 ° abduction with daily limited external rotation exercises, followed by a regular regular rehabilitation on an outpatient basis.

RESULTS

The average operating time was 112 min (68-199 min). Postoperatively the only complication was an tightly sutured drainage. The preoperative Constantpoint averaged 25 (2-59). The postoperative Constantpoint was 60. The average gain of improvement was 35 points. The age-corrected relative CS was 74 after surgery. Pain perception improved significantly from preoperatively severe to very severe pain to postoperatively minor to no pain. In the VAS score there was a reduction from preoperatively 6 to postoperatively 3 VAS points. The external rotation improved from average 3 points in the CS to 6 points in the CS. The preoperative Constantpoint in patients <60 years (n = 12) was 20, the postoperative 51. The gain was 31 Constantpoints. In patients ≥60 years (n = 12), the preoperative Constantpoint was 31, the postoperative 60. The gain was 29 points. The difference between the age groups was not significant. Previously operatively treated patients (arthroscopic or mini-open reconstruction) all showed an improvement in Constantpoints (26 vs. 32 in primarily non-reconstructed patients); however, on a lower level (45 points in previously operated patients vs. 69 CS points).

CONCLUSION

With appropriate patient selection, a high gain in CS can be achieved even in older patients using latissimus dorsi transfer for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. The VAS score and external rotation significantly improved. Previously attempts in rotator cuff reconstruction demonstrated a negative influence on the clinical outcome.

Augmented latissimus dorsi transfer: initial results in patients with massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears

BACKGROUND

The surgical treatment of irreparable massive rotator cuff tears is challenging. The purpose of the present study was to report the initial outcomes after a modified latissimus dorsi transfer (LDT) augmented by acellular dermal allograft (ADA).

METHODS

This retrospective study includes 24 patients managed with LDT using ADA augmentation as a bursal-sided onlay between March 2009 and December 2015.

RESULTS

All patients were men with a mean age of 57 years (range 48 years to 70 years). Seven patients had a previously failed rotator cuff repair and ten patients presented with a deficient subscapularis tendon. At last follow-up (mean 27 months), there was a significant improvement in active forward flexion (mean increase 31°; p = 0.016), and abduction by 25° (p = 0.059). The acromiohumeral distance remained stable and the failure rate was low (4%). Neither a history of previous rotator cuff surgery, nor the presence of a subscapularis tear had a negative impact on functional outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

In our cohort of patients, LDT augmented with ADA was a reasonable option for patients with previously failed rotator cuff repair, as well as in the subgroup of patients with a deficient subscapularis tendon.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV: Therapeutic study (case series).

Significant improvement in patient self-assessed comfort and function at six weeks after the smooth and move procedure for shoulders with irreparable rotator cuff tears and retained active elevation

BACKGROUND

It has been documented that the smooth and move procedure-smoothing the proximal humeral surface while maintaining the coracoacromial arch-can provide clinically significant long-term improvement in function for patients having irreparable rotator cuff tears with retained active elevation. This study sought to demonstrate that clinically significant gains in comfort, function, and active motion can be realized as early as 6 weeks after this procedure.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective cohort study of the 6-week clinical outcomes for 48 patients enrolled prior to a smooth and move procedure for irreparable rotator cuff tears. Prior rotator cuff repair had been attempted in 28 (70%).

RESULTS

In 40 patients with preoperative and 6-week postoperative measurements, the Simple Shoulder Test scores improved from an average of 3.4 ± 2.8 preoperatively to 5.7 ± 3.5 at 6 weeks (p < 0.001), an improvement that exceeded the published values for the minimal clinically important difference (MCID). The clinical outcomes were not worse for the 18 shoulders with irreparable tears of both the supraspinatus and infraspinatus. In 30 patients with preoperative and 6-week postoperative objective measurements of active motion, the average abduction improved from 93(± 43) to 123(± 47)° (p = 0.005) and the average flexion improved from 102(± 46) to 126(± 44)° (p = 0.023).

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to its previously documented long-term effectiveness for shoulders with irreparable rotator cuff tears and retained active elevation, this study demonstrates that the smooth and move procedure provides clinically significant improvement as early as 6 weeks after surgery.

Anatomic study of pedicled bipolar teres major transfer for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears

BACKGROUND

Treatment of rotator cuff (RC) tears has not included bipolar muscle-tendon transfers to date. The objective of this study was to verify the feasibility of pedicled bipolar teres major (TM) transfer over and under the long head of the triceps brachii (LHT) and compare its versatility with monopolar transfer in a model of supraspinatus (SS) tears in cadavers.

METHODS

In 6 shoulders of cryopreserved cadavers, we re-created complete SS tears, conducting monopolar and bipolar TM transfers over and under LHT. We compared the morphology of the SS and TM, defect coverage, angle between the transferred TM and major SS axis, and axillary nerve overlap with each technique.

RESULTS

The TM and SS were morphologically similar. Defect coverage was significantly lower with monopolar transfer (12 ± 4 mm) than with bipolar transfer (39 ± 9 mm under the LHT, P = .003, and 38 ± 8 mm over the LHT, P = .004). The bipolar transfer course over the LHT was the nearest to the SS axis (39° ± 11°, P = .005). We found a greater axillary nerve overlap with bipolar transfer under the LHT (27 ± 8 mm) than with bipolar transfer over the LHT (1 ± 2 mm, P = .005) or monopolar transfer (0 mm, P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Bipolar TM transfer is possible without neurovascular pedicle interference, obtaining greater RC defect coverage and the closest path to the SS axis when conducted over the LHT compared with monopolar or bipolar transfer under the LHT. Accordingly, it can be considered an alternative option for the treatment of posterosuperior RC defects.

Arthroscopically-Assisted Latissimus Dorsi Transfer for Irreparable Rotator Cuff Insufficiency: Modes of Failure and Clinical Correlation

PURPOSE

The main objective of this retrospective study was to analyze the rate and modes of failure of latissimus dorsi transfer (LDT). The secondary objective was to evaluate whether a rupture of the transfer was associated with a worse outcome.

METHODS

During a 2-year period, we performed consecutive LDTs either for irreparable posterior-superior rotator cuff tears (RCTs) or for failed prior repair. All the LDTs were performed by a single surgeon. All transfers were arthroscopically assisted and fixed as a tubularized LD tendon in a bone tunnel inside the humeral head. Three metal clips were placed systematically intraoperatively in the tubularized tendon at a fixed distance of 2, 4, and 6 cm from the tip of the tendon. Immediate postoperative standard anteroposterior radiographs were performed and the position of the metal clips was compared with their position on radiographs performed at 6 weeks and 3 and 24 months postoperatively. Constant, Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), Simple Shoulder Test (SST), Activities of daily living requiring active external rotation (ADLER), visual analog scale (VAS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores and patient's subjective satisfaction (assessed by self-questionnaire) at last follow-up were compared between patients who had a rupture of the transfer and those who did not.

RESULTS

Sixty-six patients were included. Six of 66 patients (9%) were lost to follow-up. There were 11 complications (18.3%) in the global series (10 hematoma and 1 subscapularis retear). At a mean 35.2 months (range 24-50 months), there were 23/60 cases of rupture (38%). The 7 scores and the satisfaction reported were significantly lower for patients who had a rupture of the transfer versus those who had an intact transfer: Constant score, 42.8 versus 68.7 (P = .001); SSV, 48.9 versus 71.6 (P = .001); SST, 4.8 versus 8.4 (P = .012); ADLER, 19.7 versus 26.7 (P = .005); VAS, 3.7 versus 2.3 (P = .082); ASES, 55.4 versus 74.8 (P = .056); and 13% of either satisfied or very satisfied patients versus 78% (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of rupture of LDT is high (38%). With complete healing of LDT, the outcome is significantly lower in those with rupture compared with those without rupture, showing that LDT can efficiently treat massive and irreparable RCT.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, case series treatment study.

Improved external rotation with concomitant reverse total shoulder arthroplasty and latissimus dorsi tendon transfer: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

In conjunction with reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), latissimus dorsi and teres major (LD-TM) transfer has been advocated in the setting of combined loss of elevation and external rotation. The purpose of this systematic review is to summarize the clinical outcomes following RSA with LD-TM transfer.

METHODS

A search of PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Medline, and Cochrane databases was performed between January 1, 1990 and March 1, 2016 and included articles related to outcomes following RSA with LD-TM transfer. Primary outcomes of interest were constant score, shoulder range of motion, and patient satisfaction. Secondary outcomes of interest included subjective shoulder value, simple shoulder test, activities of daily living requiring external rotation, and visual analog pain score. Additional outcomes evaluated included complications and reoperations. Frequency-weighted values of outcome data were utilized.

RESULTS

Five level IV studies involving 98 shoulders met the inclusion criteria. The mean age of the cohort was 69.1 ± 5.19 years (range 47-85). RSA with LD-TM transfer was performed for rotator cuff arthropathy (94%) or proximal humerus fracture (6%). The average follow-up was 44.5 ± 10.38 months (range 12-105 months). The constant score improved from 28 to 65 ( p < 0.0005). Active external rotation improved from -7.4° to 22.9° ( p < 0.0005). There was a 22.4% overall complication rate, including dislocation (5.1%), infection (5.1%), and transient nerve palsy (3.4%).

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing RSA with LD-TM transfer in the setting of loss of external rotation demonstrate reliable clinical improvements in shoulder function with complication rates which are comparable to RSA alone.

Understanding the Importance of the Teres Minor for Shoulder Function: Functional Anatomy and Pathology

Although the teres minor is often overlooked in a normal shoulder, it becomes a key component in maintaining shoulder function when other rotator cuff tendons fail. The teres minor maintains a balanced glenohumeral joint and changes from an insignificant to the most significant external rotator in the presence of major rotator cuff pathology. The presence or absence of the teres minor provides prognostic information on the outcomes of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty and tendon transfers. Clinical tests include the Patte test, the Neer dropping sign, the external rotation lag sign, and the Hertel drop sign. Advanced imaging of the teres minor can be used for classification using the Walch system. Understanding the function and pathology surrounding the teres minor is paramount in comprehensive management of the patient with shoulder pathology. Appropriate clinical examination and imaging of the teres minor are important for preoperative stratification and postoperative expectations.

The Role of Tendon Transfers for Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review aims to describe the tendon transfer options for treating irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCTs). Options for transfer include latissimus dorsi and lower trapezius transfers for posterior-superior RCTs and pectoralis major and latissimus dorsi transfer for anterior-superior RCTs.

RECENT FINDINGS

While the latissimus dorsi tendon transfer has historically been performed for posterosuperior RCTs, the lower trapezius transfer is a more anatomic option and has demonstrated promising results in recent studies. Similarly, the pectoralis major transfer has historically been the tendon transfer of choice for anterosuperior RCTs. However, the latissimus dorsi tendon transfer has recently been shown to be a safe and anatomic tendon transfer for subscapularis insufficiency. The treatment of irreparable RCTs involves complex decision making. Tendon transfer procedures can restore the glenohumeral joint force couples, allowing restoration of near-normal shoulder kinematics. Benefits include reliable pain relief, increased function, and increased strength. Proper selection of donor tendon is crucial, and the principles of tendon transfer procedures must be adhered to for maximal benefit.

A new scale measuring translation of the humeral head as a prognostic factor for the treatment of large and massive rotator cuff tears

BACKGROUND

Failure rates after rotator cuff repair remain high in patients with massive tears. Although superior translation of the humeral head has been used to assess the severity of rotator cuff tears, the relevance of anterior migration of the humeral head to clinical outcomes has not been established. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential role of the T-scale, a measure of the anterolateral translation of the humeral head, as a prognostic factor for rotator cuff repair.

METHODS

One hundred twenty consecutive patients with full-thickness rotator cuff tears underwent primary rotator cuff repair. The T-scale and acromiohumeral interval (AHI) were measured preoperatively on axial computed tomography scans and radiographs, respectively. The correlations of the T-scale and AHI with previously published scores and active forward elevation (FE) were investigated. The outcome of rotator cuff repairs was compared between patients with positive and patients with negative preoperative T-scale values.

RESULTS

The preoperative T-scale but not AHI correlated significantly with postoperative FE and clinical scores in patients with large to massive tears but not in those with small to medium tears. Postoperative FE and clinical scores were significantly higher in patients with positive T-scale values than in those with negative T-scale values. The relative risk of retear was 2.0 to 7.9 times greater in patients with negative T-scale values.

CONCLUSION

Patients with large to massive tears and negative T-scale values had poorer clinical outcomes and higher retear rates. A negative T-scale value represents a useful prognostic factor for considering reverse shoulder arthroplasty in patients at greater risk of retear after rotator cuff repair.

Translation of the humeral head scale is associated with success of rotator cuff repair for large-massive tears

BACKGROUND

Although a loss of rotator cuff integrity leads to the superior migration of the humeral head, the parameters that characterize the anterolateral migration of the humeral head have not been established. The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between the translation of the humeral head scale (T-scale) and clinical outcomes of rotator cuff repair, as well as the correlation between the T-scale and radiologic parameters.

METHODS

One hundred thirty-five consecutive patients with full-thickness rotator cuff tears underwent primary rotator cuff repair. The T-scale, which indicates the distance from the center of the humeral head to the lateral coracoacromial arch, was measured on axial computed tomography scans, and the acromiohumeral interval (AHI) was measured radiographically. The correlation of the two parameters with the clinical scores of the Japanese Orthopaedic Association and University of California-Los Angeles scores and active forward elevation (FE) were evaluated at the preoperative and postoperative stages, respectively.

RESULTS

The postoperative T-scale and AHI correlated well with the postoperative FE and clinical scores in the patients with large-massive tears but not in those patients with small-medium tears and preoperative large-massive tears. A significant correlation was observed between the postoperative T-scale and AHI. The T-scale was subject to cuff repair integrity.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that the postoperative T-scale was well correlated with the clinical results and postoperative AHI after rotator cuff repair for large-massive tears, indicating that poor outcomes are associated with combined superior and anterolateral migration of the humeral head following retears.

Teres major muscle - insertion footprint

Teres major muscle (TM) and latissimus dorsi muscle (LD) are frequently used in muscle transfers around the shoulder girdle. Some authors have suggested harvesting techniques in which the muscle is detached in continuity with a bone segment. Information on the bony attachment footprint of these muscles is lacking. The purpose of this study was to investigate the region of attachment of the TM to facilitate safe and complete harvesting with a bone segment where it is indicated, and to determine the relationship of the TM footprint with that of the LD. Twenty-eight upper extremities of 14 human cadavers (six female, eight male) were investigated during the students' dissection course in the winter term 2012. The attachment footprints were photographed and the images were processed with ImageJ Version 1.46r. The TM attachment footprint at the crest of the lesser tubercle had an average dimension of 187 ± 89 mm2 . It was 49.6 ± 7.9 mm long and 7.4 ± 2.5 mm wide. The bony attachment of the LD within the bicipital groove, just below the tendon of the long head of the biceps muscle, had an area of 94 ± 37 mm2 . It was 36.5 ± 8 mm long and 3.7 ± 1.2 mm wide. Both muscles were separated by 4.4 ± 1.7 mm and their attachments overlapped in the craniocaudal direction by 24.4 ± 12.4 mm. Earlier studies have investigated the dimensions of the muscles' tendons close to the attachment not the bony attachment itself. The dimension of the attachment of the TM was larger than that of the LD. The ratio between the footprint areas was approximately 2:1. This information should be considered by surgeons undertaking transfers, which include a bony segment of the muscle insertion.

Arthroscopic-Assisted Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Transfer for Massive, Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: Technique and Short-Term Follow-Up of Patients With Pseudoparalysis

PURPOSE

To describe a modified technique for arthroscopic-assisted transfer of the latissimus dorsi tendon in a selected group of patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears and pseudoparalysis and to evaluate its short-term results.

METHODS

Fifteen patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears and pseudoparalysis treated by arthroscopic-assisted latissimus dorsi tendon transfer were included. The mean patient age was 61.53 ± 6.24 years (range, 52-71 years). Patients were assessed with physical examination, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Score and Constant-Murley score, as well as visual analog scale score at a mean follow-up of 26.4 ± 2.58 months (range, 24-31 months).

RESULTS

At final follow-up, mean UCLA score increased to 27.47 ± 6.31 compared with the preoperative UCLA score of 6.53 ± 2.1 (P < .001). Constant-Murley score was 21 ± 7.41 and 59.73 ± 13.62 (P < .001), visual analog scale pain score was 7.47 ± 1.06 and 2.47 ± 0.91 (P < .001), active forward flexion was 58° ± 21.11° and 130° ± 30.05° (P < .001), active abduction was 51° ± 21.64° and 129.67° ± 25.45° (P < .001), and active external rotation was 13.33° ± 21.68° and 32° ± 18.03° (P < .001) preoperatively and postoperatively, respectively. Mean acromiohumeral distance was 3.13 ± 1.40 mm preoperatively, whereas it was 5.67 ± 1.67 mm postoperatively (P < .001). No significant complications requiring a revision surgery was observed during the final follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The modified technique of arthroscopic-assisted transfer of the latissimus dorsi tendon is a feasible, minimally invasive option for the surgical treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears in a subset of patients with pseudoparalysis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Latissimus Dorsi Transfer in Posterior Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears

BACKGROUND

Massive rotator cuff tears pose a difficult and complex challenge even for the experienced surgeon; inability to repair these tears by conventional means designates them as irreparable, while management becomes quite taxing. Several operative options have been suggested for the management of such lesions with varying degrees of success, while it is imperative to match patient demands and expectations to the predicted outcome.

METHODS

Research articles are examined and key concepts are discussed, in order to provide an evidence based review of the available literature. The anatomy and pathomechanics along with the indications, contraindications and surgical techniques are reported.

RESULTS

Transfer of the Latissimus dorsi has been used with success to restore shoulder function in deficits of the posterior rotator cuff. Although it can be used in a variety of settings, the ideal patient for a Latissimus dorsi tendon transfer is a young and active individual, with no glenohumeral osteoarthritis that has a severe disability and weakness related to an irreparable posterior cuff tear.

CONCLUSION

Tendon transfers have proved to be a successful treatment option in salvaging this difficult problem, providing pain relief and restoring shoulder function. Despite the excellent functional outcomes and pain suppression following operation, a variety of factors may affect the outcome; thus making indications and preoperative assessment a valuable component.