No full-text available
To read the full-text of this research,
you can request a copy directly from the authors.
The role of Superior Capsule Reconstruction in the irreparable rotator cuff tear — A systematic review
Abstract
Introduction:
Irreparable rotator cuff tears in active patients provide a significant challenge and a consensus on the gold standard treatment is currently lacking. Superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) has recently been advocated and functions by providing a passive biological constraint to superior humeral head migration. The aim of this study is to systematically review the literature to evaluate the role of SCR in terms of functional outcome scores and failure rates.
Patients and methods:
A review of the online databases Medline and EMBASE was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines on the 28th January 2019. Clinical studies reporting SCR using any type of graft or surgical technique were included if reporting either functional outcome scores or rate of secondary surgery. The studies were appraised using the Methodological index for non-randomised studies tool.
Results:
The search strategy identified nine studies eligible for inclusion; five reported on fascia lata autografts and four studies reported on dermal allografts. All nine studies reported significant improvement in functional scores after SCR. Rates of secondary surgery were only provided in the dermal allograft studies at short-term follow-up (mean 10.9 to 32.4 months) and ranged from 0 to 18.6%. Radiological assessment revealed graft failure in 5.5 to 55% of dermal allografts and 4.2 to 36.1% of fascia lata autografts.
Conclusion:
This review demonstrates that SCR is a useful treatment modality for patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears. SCR was associated with significantly improved functional outcome scores in all studies. All studies reported a preserved or increased mean AHD. The radiological graft failure rate ranged from 4.2 to 55% and the short duration of follow-up in most studies means that this remains an important concern that requires longer-term evaluation.
... 2,9,18,20,28,[31][32][33]37,41 Early clinical trials yielded positive outcomes 3,8,13,27,29,31,36 ; however, failure rates, which are highly dependent on technique and graft choice, have been reported to occur in up to 50% of cases. 8,13,21,24,30,36,45,47 The most common failures include graft tears and graft failures, which have been noted to be higher for allografts compared to autografts. 13,21,25,31,47 Despite continuous improvements of the SCR technique using allografts, autografts, and xenografts, it still raises concerns among shoulder surgeons, as it is noted to be an expensive, complex, lengthy, and technically highly demanding procedure with potential donor-site morbidity. ...
... 8,13,21,24,30,36,45,47 The most common failures include graft tears and graft failures, which have been noted to be higher for allografts compared to autografts. 13,21,25,31,47 Despite continuous improvements of the SCR technique using allografts, autografts, and xenografts, it still raises concerns among shoulder surgeons, as it is noted to be an expensive, complex, lengthy, and technically highly demanding procedure with potential donor-site morbidity. 11,18,23 Additionally, most of the procedures require a considerable amount of anchors and sutures at the glenoidal and humeral head side, which may have a subsequent effect on functional outcomes or complications during future interventions. ...
... 25 First described in 2012 by Mihata et al, long-term clinical outcomes for this procedure are limited, whereas short-term studies showed mixed results. 8,13,21,24,30,36,45,47 Recent meta-analysis and systematic reviews have reported complication rates of up to 65%, whereas graft tears account for approximately 30% of the cases, 7,17,21,24,41 especially when using allografts. To this, clinical failures and graft tears have been noted to be higher for allografts, when compared to autografts. ...
Background
Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) treatment of massive, symptomatic, irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCT) has become a more recently utilized procedure. However, there is a lack of consensus surrounding optimal graft choice for the SCR technique and current dermal grafts have increased cost and are technically challenging due to a need for multiple implants. The purpose of this study was to biomechanically investigate a biological lower-cost alternative as a support for the superior capsule reconstruction concept; an isolated semitendinosus tendon allograft (STT) and a combination graft with the tendon of the long head of the biceps (LHBT) in an established massive posterosuperior RCT cadaver model.
Methods
Ten fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders (53.3 ± 12.4 years: range: 26 – 65) were tested on an established dynamic shoulder simulator using dynamic muscle loading. Cumulative deltoid forces, maximum abduction angle, and superior humeral head translation were compared across four testing conditions: (1) intact state, (2) massively retracted (Patte III), irreparable posterosuperior RCT, (3) SCR repair using a STT allograft, (4) SCR repair using a combined STT-LHBT repair.
Results
Intact shoulders required a mean deltoid force of 154.2 ± 20.41N to achieve maximum glenohumeral abduction (55.3 ± 2.3°). Compared to native shoulders, maximum abduction angle decreased following a massively retracted posterosuperior RCT by 52% (28.3 ± 8.4°; p<.001), while cumulative deltoid forces increased by 48 % (205.3 ± 40.9N; p=0.001). The STT repair and STT-LHBT repair improved shoulder function when compared to the tear state, with mean maximum abduction angle of 30.6 ± 9.0o and 31.8 ± 7.7o and mean deltoid force of 205.3 ± 40.9 N, and 201.0 ± 34.0 N respectively, but this was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The STT-LHBT repair significantly improved range of motion compared to the tear state (P = .04).
Conclusions
In a dynamic shoulder simulator model, both the SST and the SST-LHBT repair techniques improved glenohumeral joint kinematics in an amount similar to previously reported “traditional” SCR techniques for treatment of an irreparable posterosuperior RCT.
... Среди вариантов хирургического лечения предпочтение отдаётся: субакромиальной баллонопластике, пластике проксимальной капсулы плечевого сустава, мышечно-сухожильным трансферам и реверсивному эндопротезированию. Однако, по литературным данным, частота осложнений после хирургического восстановления массивных разрывов составляет от 20 до 94 % [6][7][8]. ...
... Оценка результатов проводилась рентгенологически. Несостоятельность дермального матрикса отмечалась от 5,5 % до 55 % случаев, несостоятельность широчайшей фасции бедра составила -в 4,2-36,1 % [8]. При сохранности суставного хряща головки плечевой кости одним из вариантов хирургического лечения МРВМПС являются мышечно-сухожильные трансферы. ...
Rotator cuff tears are one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries and account for about 20 %. Massive rotator cuff tears account for up to 40 % of all tears. There is no single approach in the treatment of patients with massive rotator cuff tears. We have developed a new method of surgical treatment of these patients – arthroscopically assisted transposition of the latissimus dorsi tendon using 1/2 of the tendon of the long peroneal muscle. The aim of the study . To assess the effectiveness of surgical treatment of patients with massive rotator cuff tears who had arthroscopically assisted transposition of the latissimus dorsi tendon using an autograft of a 1/2 of the tendon of the long peroneal muscle. Materials and methods . The study included 15 patients with Patte stage III and Thomazeau grade 2–3 massive rotator cuff tears, who had arthroscopically assisted transposition of the latissimus dorsi tendon using 1/2 of the tendon of the long peroneal muscle. Results . The article presents the long-term results of surgical treatment of patients using the developed method. The following criteria were evaluated: average age; time since injury; duration of surgery. Functional outcome was assessed using the ASES (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons) scale. Taking into account the indicators on the ASES functional scale 1 year after surgical treatment, the following results were obtained: excellent – in 14 (93.3 %) patients, satisfactory – in 1 (6.7 %) patient. Conclusion . The developed method allows us to restore the function of the shoulder joint as early as it possible, to reduce the severity of the pain syndrome and to improve the quality of life of patients.
... The LHBT may be used as a live and autologous tissue to enhance surgical repair or to provide mechanical support to avoid superior migration in a cuff-deficient shoulder [18]. To the best of our knowledge, there are no publications that systematically analysed the biomechanical and clinical evidence about LHBT as a solution for SCR, in clear contrast with the multiple publications that have provided higher levels of evidence for SCR with FL or dermal allografts [19][20][21][22]. ...
... Despite these limitations, this review gathers the available information concerning a recently developed alternative approach to SCR, including not only clinical results but also biomechanical results, which differ from other reviews that were conducted on this topic [20,[47][48][49]. ...
Massive rotator cuff tears (mRCT) are challenging and superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) with the long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) has been described as a possible solution. The purpose of this study was to systematically evaluate the literature concerning SCR using LHBT in biomechanical and clinical studies. A systematic review according to the PRISMA statement was designed, including studies from January 2020 until June 2022. Studies were selected according to a two-stage process (two independent observers). Data was extracted reporting general information, biomechanical and clinical outcomes. Five biomechanical and nine clinical studies were included. In the biomechanical studies (n = 42 shoulders), different techniques were used to perform SCR with LHBT. Superior translation was significantly decreased comparing to the tear condition in three out of four studies. Subacromial peak pressure was significantly decreased in one out of three studies. Heterogeneity in testing conditions and outcome assessment limited comparison between studies. In the clinical studies (n = 271), significant improvements in forward flexion comparing to preoperative measurements were found. Functional scores (Visual Analogue Scale [VAS], Constant-Murley [CMS] and American Shoulder and Elbow Score [ASES]) were also significantly improved. Reported complications were mainly stiffness and a 2 to 22% rate of graft failure.
Variations in the surgical technique and outcome assessment were major limitations that should be considered. Nevertheless, this review provides clinical and biomechanical data that may guide future research and clinical practice. SCR using the LHBT produces promising biomechanical and clinical results, with a reduction in superior translation and subacromial peak pressure and improved forward flexion, VAS, CMS and ASES.
... Initial clinical results yielded promising outcomes, 4,8,14,43 although clinical failure rates have been reported to vary between 4% and 55% of cases, highly dependent on technique and graft choice. 8,14,26,36,43,52,54 The most common failures include graft tears on the glenoidal side and concomitant graft failures, which may be higher for allografts when compared with autografts. 14,26,32,38,54 Thus, potential donor site morbidity, graft reactions, minimal graft size needed, high learning curves, complex techniques, and high costs raise concerns among orthopaedic surgeons when indicating patients for conventional SCR. ...
... 8,14,26,36,43,52,54 The most common failures include graft tears on the glenoidal side and concomitant graft failures, which may be higher for allografts when compared with autografts. 14,26,32,38,54 Thus, potential donor site morbidity, graft reactions, minimal graft size needed, high learning curves, complex techniques, and high costs raise concerns among orthopaedic surgeons when indicating patients for conventional SCR. Consequently, using the LHBT in SCR is a technically feasible procedure that does not compromise eventual conversion to rTSA, even if reconstruction fails. ...
Background:
In the past decade, superior capsular reconstruction has emerged as a potential surgical approach in young patients with irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears (RCT) and absence of severe degenerative changes. Recently, the use of locally available and biological viable autografts, such as the long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) for SCR has emerged, with promising early results.
Purpose/Hypothesis:
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of using the LHBT for reconstruction of the superior capsule on shoulder kinematics, along with different fixation constructs in a dynamic biomechanical model. The authors hypothesized that each of the 3 proposed fixation techniques would restore native joint kinematics, including glenohumeral superior translation (ghST), maximum abduction angle (MAA), maximum cumulative deltoid force (cDF), and subacromial peak contact pressure (sCP).
Study Design:
Controlled laboratory study.
Methods:
Eight fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders (mean age, 53.4 ± 14.2 years) were tested using a dynamic shoulder simulator. Each specimen underwent the following 5 conditions: (1) intact, (2) irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tear (psRCT), (3) V-shaped LHBT reconstruction, (4) box-shaped LHBT reconstruction, and (5) single-stranded LHBT reconstruction. MAA, ghST, cDF and sCP were assessed in each tested condition.
Results:
Each of the 3 LHBT techniques for reconstruction of the superior capsule significantly increased MAA while significantly decreasing ghST and cDF compared with the psRCT (P < .001 and P < .001, respectively). Additionally, the V-shaped and box-shaped techniques significantly decreased sCP (P = .009 and P = .016, respectively) compared with the psRCT. The V-shaped technique further showed a significantly increased MAA (P < .001, respectively) and decreased cDF (P = .042 and P = .039, respectively) when compared with the box-shaped and single-stranded techniques, as well as a significantly decreased ghST (P = .027) when compared with the box-shaped technique.
Conclusion:
In a dynamic biomechanical cadaveric model, using the LHBT for reconstruction of the superior capsule improved shoulder function by preventing superior humeral migration, decreasing deltoid forces and sCP. As such, the development of rotator cuff tear arthropathy in patients with irreparable psRCTs could potentially be delayed.
Clinical Relevance:
Using a biologically viable and locally available LHBT autograft is a cost-effective, potentially time-saving, and technically feasible alternative for reconstruction of the superior capsule, which may result in favorable outcomes in irreparable psRCTs. Moreover, each of the 3 techniques restored native shoulder biomechanics, which may help improve shoulder function by preventing superior humeral head migration and the development of rotator cuff tear arthropathy in young patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears.
Keywords superior capsular reconstruction, SCR, rotator cuff tear, irreparable rotator cuff tear, long head of the biceps tendon, biomechanics
... The technique can help restore or enhance shoulder function, including strength and range of motion, in patients with massive, irreparable tears. Unlike some traditional repairs that may over-tension or alter the biomechanics of existing tissues, SCR focuses on augmenting the native structures of the shoulder [19]. ...
Rotator cuff tears in the shoulder joint are common musculoskeletal injuries that may present with or without symptoms. Rotator cuff tears are a common musculoskeletal condition that become increasingly prevalent with age.
This mines various surgical interventions for rotator cuff tears, focusing on patient selection criteria and treatment outcomes across different subgroups. A comprehensive search was conducted to identify studies on rotator cuff tear classifications and surgical techniques. The review analyzes patient characteristics influencing treatment choices and outcomes.
Rotator cuff tears are classified by size and extent. Surgical interventions range from arthroscopic repairs to reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), each with specific indications. Patient factors such as age, tear size, activity level, and overall health influence the selection of surgical technique. Minimally invasive procedures generally offer reduced times and complications, while open surgeries may be necessary for complex tears.
The choice of surgical treatment for rotator cuff tears is determined by multiple factors, including tear characteristics and patient demographics. Tailoring interventions to individual patient needs can optimize outcomes and restore shoulder function effectively.
... 38,40,43 Subsequent reports have described high rates of graft retear, reoperations, and revision surgery. 37,[44][45][46][47][48][49][50][51][52] The variability in outcomes has been attributed to differences in surgical indications, technical considerations such as graft choice (allograft vs autograft), and surgeon experience. 37,52 However, there remains a paucity of data on the true complication profile following SCR for the treatment of FIRCTs. ...
Objective:
To determine the practice patterns of Canadian orthopedic surgeons in the management of patients with anterior glenohumeral instability (AGHI).
Design:
Cross-sectional survey.
Setting:
Canada.
Patients or other participants:
Canadian orthopedic surgeons with membership in the Canadian Orthopedic Association or Canadian Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon group who had managed at least 1 patient with AGHI in the previous year.
Interventions:
A survey including demographics and questions on the management of patients with AGHI was completed. Statistical comparisons (χ2) were completed with responses stratified using the instability severity index score (ISIS) in practice, years of practice, and surgical volumes.
Main outcome measures:
Summary statistics were compiled, and response frequencies were considered for consensus (75%). Case series responses were stratified on use of the ISIS in practice, years of experience, and annual procedure volumes (χ2, P < 0.05).
Results:
Eighty orthopedic surgeons responded, with consensus on areas of diagnostic workup of AGHI, nonoperative management, and operative techniques. There was no consensus on indications for soft tissue and bony augmentation or postoperative management. There was no difference in practices based on the use of ISIS, years in practice, or surgical volumes.
Conclusions:
Canadian orthopedic surgeons manage AGHI consistently with consensus achieved in preoperative diagnostics and operative techniques, although debate remains as to the indications for soft tissue and bony augmentation procedures.
... 19 It has been validated that ASCR for MIRCTs leads to promising short-term clinical outcomes with low complications. [20][21][22][23] The previous systematic reviews [24][25][26] have evaluated the short-term clinical outcomes of ASCR only using the graft of fascia lata autograft (FLA) and human dermal allograft (HDA). However, there is still no consensus on the midterm or long-term therapeutic effectiveness of ASCR for MIRCTs, and whether ASCR using other kinds of graft leads to the similar clinical outcomes for MIRCTs remains unclear. ...
Purpose
The purposes of this study were to evaluate the clinical outcomes (with the minimum mean follow-up period of 2 years) of arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (ASCR) using different grafts for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCTs) and to explore whether margin convergence in ASCR affects range of motion (ROM) outcomes.
Methods
This systematic review was registered in PROSPERO and was then conducted following PRISMA guidelines by searching the databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library database before April 2021. These literature searches investigating the clinical outcomes of ASCR were included. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the MINORS criteria. The data, including margin convergence, patient-reported outcome scores, range of motion, and complications, were extracted and analyzed. The minimal clinically important differences (MCID) criteria was used to define clinical significance.
Results
15 studies met the inclusion criteria. All studies reported statistically significant improvements in visual analog scale scores (range: 2.07 to 7.1) and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores (range: 18.1 to 58). Significant improvements of Constant scores were noted in 4 of 5 reporting studies (mean improvement ranged from 14.64 to 50.79). Active forward flexion/elevation (11 studies), active abduction (4 studies), and active external rotation (8 studies) displayed improvements in all reporting studies, with mean changes ranging from 12 to 73.68, 19 to 89.21, and 1 to 24.74, respectively. The mean change of postoperative acromiohumeral distance ranged from −0.86 mm to 3.2 mm in 9 studies. The postoperative complication rate of ASCR ranged from 4.5% to 47.6%. The anterior margin convergence in SCR was associated with a relatively poor improvement in active external rotation.
Conclusions
ASCR contributes to significant improvements in patient-reported clinical outcomes and ROM at follow-up after a mean of more than two years, emerging as a viable option for patients with MIRCTs. The anterior margin convergence should be prudently chosen, especially in ASCR using fascia lata autograft, on account of the probable restriction on postoperative active external rotation.
... 3 Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR), lower trapezius transfer and anatomical joint arthroplasty are other options. [4][5][6][7] Recently, several systematic reviews have demonstrated the clinical effectiveness of SCR as a surgical solution for irreparable RCTs, [8][9][10][11] though a review by Altintis et al. 11 outlined the relatively poor quality of many of the existing studies and notable complications that have been reported. ...
Background
Latissimus dorsi tendon transfer (LDTT) remains a surgical option for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. Despite a lack of comparative studies, subscapularis insufficiency has been reported as a contraindication. This study investigated the clinical outcome at a minimum 2-years post-surgery, in patients undergoing LDTT with varied subscapularis integrity.
Methods
This retrospective study included 48 patients, of which 22 underwent LDTT with an intact subscapularis (age 56.9 years, review time 79.6 months, males 68.2%) and 26 with partial (16 patients) or full-thickness (10 patients) subscapularis tearing (age 57.4 years, review time 73.3 months, males 73.1%) between 2004 and 2018. Pre-operative imaging ascertained subscapularis status. Outcomes included the Upper Extremity Functional Index (UEFI), Global Rating of Change (GRC) and patient satisfaction.
Results
No significant group differences were observed in age (p = 0.617) or review time (p = 0.555), nor the UEFI (intact 69.6, not intact 67.0, p = 0.265) or GRC (intact 3.6, not intact 2.9, p = 0.265). High levels of patient satisfaction were observed in both groups for pain relief, improving the ability to undertake daily and recreational activities, and overall satisfaction (intact 95.5–100.0%, not intact 92.3–96.2%).
Conclusion
LDTT resulted in encouraging clinical scores and high satisfaction levels, irrespective of the degree of untreated, underlying subscapularis integrity.
Level of evidence
Therapeutic Level III.
... For irreparable rotator cuff tear, arthroscopic shoulder superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) is an advanced choice for functional reconstruction and pain relief of the shoulder joint. 1 Meanwhile, SCR is also one of the most complicated operations in shoulder surgery, which takes a long operation time. The complications of arthroscopic shoulder joint surgery include neuromuscular damage, infection, thromboembolic disease, fluid extravasation, etc., and the incidence is approximately 5.8%e9.5%. 2 However, pneumothorax has been rarely reported in patients who received shoulder arthroscopy. ...
Arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction is an innovative technique for the irreparable rotator cuff tears, but spontaneous pneumothorax after surgery is very rare. The present was a 66-year-old female with irreparable rotator cuff tears of the right shoulder, who was treated with the arthroscopic shoulder superior capsular reconstruction. The general anesthesia and operation went smoothly, but the patient experienced stuffiness in the chest and shortness of breath after recovery from anesthesia. Thoracic CT scans showed spontaneous pneumothorax in the right side, which was successfully treated by the conservative treatments (oxygen therapy) according to multidisciplinary team. Prompt and accurate early-stage diagnosis is necessary in controlling postoperative complications and standardized treatment is the key to relieve the suffering. Spontaneous pneumothorax after arthroscopic shoulder surgery has been rarely reported in previous literatures.
... 26 Systematic reviews could not compare clinical outcomes between different types of grafts and highlighted the heterogeneity among the studies. 9,22,30,42,45,51 The good results of ASCR that uses AFL come with a price: the additional harvesting procedure and the resultant residual symptoms. According to the current study, 95% of the patients considered the price to be fair and would be willing to undergo the procedure again. ...
Background
Autologous fascia lata (AFL) graft use in arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (ASCR) is effective for the treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCTs). Although donor-site morbidity (DSM) is a recurrent argument against AFL graft use, scientific evidence for this argument is lacking.
Purpose
To report the midterm clinical follow-up evaluation of DSM in ASCR using minimally invasively harvested AFL grafts and compare thigh function and patient satisfaction with those of an unharvested control group.
Study Design
Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.
Methods
Of 66 consecutive patients who underwent ASCR using a minimally invasively harvested AFL graft, 39 patients with a minimum follow-up of 24 months were retrospectively evaluated (ASCR group) and compared with 39 randomly selected patients who underwent arthroscopic RCT repair by the same surgeons (control group). The functional outcomes of both thighs were evaluated using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Patient satisfaction was evaluated using the Patient Scar Assessment Questionnaire (PSAQ) and a subjective questionnaire. Pain was quantified using a visual analog scale (VAS).
Results
The ASCR group had a mean age of 65 years (range, 51-77 years) and a mean follow-up of 47 months (range, 24-66 months). The WOMAC score in the harvested thigh differed by 0.8% from that in the contralateral thigh ( P = .002). The mean PSAQ score differed by 6 points from the minimum PSAQ score ( P < .001). Overall, 95% of the patients indicated that they would undergo the same surgery again and that the shoulder outcome compensated for the thigh symptoms. There was no significant association between the presence of residual thigh symptoms and the willingness to undergo the same surgery again ( P = .354). The mean VAS score in the harvested thigh was 0.6 (range, 0-5). There was no significant difference in the average WOMAC score or VAS score between groups ( P = .684 and P = .148, respectively).
Conclusion
Despite the proportion of residual symptoms, the associated functional effects were small and not clinically significant, and the vast majority of patients were accepting of the harvest symptoms given the improvement in shoulder function.
... Bearing these limitations in mind, overall failure rates for SCR are reported between 5.5% and 55% for HDA, and between 4.2% and 36.1% for FLA. 2 Although some authors have attempted to directly compare failure rates between graft types, the validity of doing so is low given the aforementioned limitations, the lack of comparative studies, and heterogeneity in various aspects of study design (particularly duration of follow-up and timing of postoperative imaging). Despite that, there seems to be a general perception that FLA might be the better graft due to potentially higher healing rates. ...
Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) is increasingly considered a “game-changer” for young patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears. Popular graft choices include fascia lata autograft (FLA) and human dermal allograft (HDA), with the latter strongly preferred in North America and Europe. Despite that, there seems to be a general perception that FLAs are associated with better healing rates due to better biology. However, critical analysis of the literature demonstrates abundant limitations that preclude strong conclusions about whether one graft type is optimal. Furthermore, recent studies have demonstrated that HDAs used for SCR have good healing potential and are also associated with generally good short-term clinical outcomes. A clinical pearl is that humeral sided repair failures are not uncommon, and double-row repair techniques should be thoughtfully considered. The main downside of FLAs is the associated donor site morbidity. Given the lack of proven advantage of FLAs, the impetus to move away from the current trend to use HDAs is low.
... 38,40,43 Subsequent reports have described high rates of graft retear, reoperations, and revision surgery. 37,[44][45][46][47][48][49][50][51][52] The variability in outcomes has been attributed to differences in surgical indications, technical considerations such as graft choice (allograft vs autograft), and surgeon experience. 37,52 However, there remains a paucity of data on the true complication profile following SCR for the treatment of FIRCTs. ...
Purpose
The purpose of this systematic review is to characterize the complications associated with Superior Capsule Reconstruction (SCR) for the treatment of Functionally Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears (FIRCTs).
Methods
This systematic review was completed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Two independent reviewers completed a search of PubMed, Embase and Medline databases. Studies were deemed eligible for inclusion if they reported post-operative outcomes of arthroscopic SCR for FIRCTs and considered at least one post-operative complication. Statistical heterogeneity was quantified via the I² statistic. Due to marked heterogeneity, pooled proportions were not reported. All complications and patient-reported outcomes were described qualitatively.
Results
14 studies met the inclusion/exclusion criteria. The overall complication rate post SCR ranged from 5.0%–70.0% (I² = 84.9%). Image verified graft re-tear ranged from 8%–70%, I² = 79.4%) with higher rates reported when SCR was performed using allograft (19%–70%, I² 76.6%) compared to autograft (8%–29%, I² = 66.1%). Reoperation (0%–36%, I² = 73.4%), revision surgeries (0%–21%, I² = 81.2%), medical complications (0%–5%, I² = 0.0%) and infections (0%–5%, I² = 0.0%) were also calculated.
Conclusion
SCR carries a distinct complication profile when used for the treatment of FIRCTs. The overall rate of complications ranged from 5.0%–70.0%. The most common complication is graft retear with higher ranges in allografts (19%–70%) compared to autografts (8%–29%). The majority of studies reported at least one reoperation (range: 0–36%), most commonly for revision to reverse shoulder arthroplasty.
An irreparable rotator cuff tear is a challenging condition to treat, and various treatment modalities are being introduced. Medialization in the partial repair method has the limitation of exposing the tuberosity, while tension-free biologic interposition tuberoplasty using acellular dermal matrix has the limitation of exposing the humeral head. The authors believe that by combining these two techniques, it is possible to complement each other's limitations. Therefore, they propose a surgical method that combines medialization and biologic interposition tuberoplasty for addressing these constraints.
The prevalence of rotator cuff tears according to the literature ranges from 20 % to 40 %, and this injury occurs more often in people over 60 years of age. Massive rotator cuff tears account for 10–40 % of all rotator cuff tears. Massive rotator cuff tears are considered to be tears with a diastasis of more than 5 cm or tears involving two or more tendons. With such injuries, the kinematics of the shoulder joint changes: proximal subluxation of the humeral head and arthropathy of the shoulder joint occur, which subsequently causes pseudoparalysis. The main clinical manifestations are pain and dysfunction of the shoulder joint. Patients may experience a loss of active range of motion in the shoulder joint while maintaining passive range of motion. There is currently no unified approach to the choosing the tactics for surgical treatment. The most common options include partial rotator cuff repair, subacromial balloon plasty, replacement of tendon defects with allografts and autografts, proximal shoulder joint capsule plasty, muscle-tendon transfers, and shoulder joint arthroplasty. However, according to the literature data, the frequency of re-ruptures after surgery ranges from 11 % to 94 %. Despite the large number of methods for the treatment of massive rotator cuff tears, there are no clear algorithms for managing patients and choosing one or another surgical tactics. In addition, there is a high percentage of unsatisfactory outcomes of treatment. Taking all of these factors into account, the problem of improving the treatment of patients with massive rotator cuff tears remains relevant and timely.
We describe the technique using superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) with a dermal allograft in patients with large irreparable supraspinatus tendon tears. The surgery provides good clinical results by improving pain and functional score, especially in isolated ruptures.
Background
Patient Acceptable Symptom State (PASS), minimal clinically important difference (MCID), and substantial clinical benefit (SCB) have rarely been assessed after arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (ASCR) with fascia lata autograft.
Purpose
(1) To investigate PASS, MCID, and SCB values for pain visual analog scale (pVAS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Constant score, and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) after ASCR with fascia lata autograft, (2) to investigate factors for achieving PASS, MCID, and SCB.
Study Design
Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.
Methods
We retrospectively collected data from patients who underwent ASCR between June 2013 and October 2020. A total of 88 patients were included, and anchor questions for deriving PASS, MCID, and SCB values were applied at a minimum 1-year follow-up postoperatively. PASS, MCID, and SCB were derived using sensitivity- and specificity-based approaches. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to determine factors for achieving PASS, MCID, and SCB.
Results
Based on receiver operating characteristic curves, all 4 scores had acceptable area under the curve values (>0.7) for PASS, MCID, and SCB values. The PASS, MCID, and SCB values were 1.5, 2.5, and 4.5 for pVAS; 81.0, 19.0, and 27.5 for the ASES score; 60.5, −0.5, and 5.5 for the Constant score; and 75.0, 27.5, and 32.5 for SANE, respectively. Poor preoperative scores were related to significantly higher odds ratios (ORs) for achieving MCID and SCB. Wide acromiohumeral distance and dominant side were related to higher ORs for achieving PASS for the ASES score, and subscapularis tear was related to lower ORs for achieving PASS for pVAS and SCB for the Constant score.
Conclusion
Reliable PASS, MCID, and SCB values were achieved for at least 1 year after ASCR surgery. Poor preoperative score, wide acromiohumeral distance, and dominant side all demonstrated higher ORs for at least one value, but a subscapularis tear demonstrated lower ORs for achieving PASS for pVAS and SCB for the Constant score.
Introduction:
Arthroscopic balloon spacer arthroplasty (BSA) is a relatively recent procedure for patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears, conceived to prevent degenerative joint changes and relieve subacromial pain.
Methods:
This is a retrospective case series of 16 consecutive patients treated with BSA and followed up for a minimum 12 months. Besides BSA, partial tendon repair was done whenever possible. Radiographical parameters such as acromiohumeral distance and Hamada stage were measured preoperatively and postoperatively. Range of motion, functional results (Constant score; Simple Shoulder Test; American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score; and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score), health-related quality of life results with the EuroQol Five Dimensions tool, complications, and patient satisfaction were also analyzed.
Results:
The mean age was 64 ± 10.3 years, and the male/female ratio was 6/10. Partial repair was achieved in five patients (31.2%) and did not influence functional or health-related quality of life results (P = 0.11). The mean acromiohumeral distance and Hamada stage worsened from preoperative measures (3.7 ± 2.0 mm and 2.3 ± 1.1) to final follow-up measures (3.1 ± 2.4 mm and 3.1 ± 1.3). Shoulder abduction increased by 7.8° ± 26.8° and forward flexion decreased by 25.5° ± 32.4° after surgery. The functional results at the final follow-up were Constant 49.5 ± 18.0; American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons 60.2 ± 27.2; Simple Shoulder Test 8.5 ± 4.6; and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand 32.7 ± 12.1. The mean index value for the EuroQol Five Dimensions was 0.79, and perceived quality of life was 85.6 ± 15.4 of 100 points. 62.5% of the patients (10) were satisfied with surgery. The complication rate was 13% (2), accounting for one deep infection and one balloon migration.
Conclusion:
Theoretical benefits of BSA for delaying superior humeral head translation and arthropathic changes could not be demonstrated in our series. Its functional results and satisfaction rates are low, but self-reported quality of life after surgery does not seem impaired. Complications do not occur frequently but require reintervention and endanger joint viability.
Level of evidence:
Level IV (case series).
Background: Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) can be utilized for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears in the absence of significant degenerative changes; however, those who fail an SCR may require reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). The effect of a previously performed SCR on outcomes following RSA remains unknown.
Methods: Subjects who underwent RSA from May 2015-January 2021 at two separate institutions were retrospectively identified through prospectively collected databases. Patients who underwent RSA after failed SCR were matched to those who underwent RSA after failed rotator cuff repairs (RCR) based on number of previous ipsilateral shoulder procedures (n=1, 2, ≥3) and secondarily by age within five years. American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Shoulder score (ASES), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), Visual Analog Score (VAS) for pain, and Western Ontario Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder (WOOS) scores were compared between groups. The minimal clinically important difference (MCID), substantial clinical benefit (SCB), and patient acceptable symptomatic state (PASS) thresholds were calculated to determine clinically relevant differences between groups.
Results: 45 patients were included (32 RSA following RCR, 13 following SCR). There were more smokers (p=0.001) and worker’s compensation cases (p=0.034) in the SCR group. The RCR cohort was older (p=0.007) and had a greater incidence of mental health (p>0.999) and somatic disorders (p=0.698), although these did not reach statistical significance. The mean follow-up for the RCR and SCR groups were 24.2 ± 23.3 and 20.4 ± 14.9 months following RSA, respectively (p=0.913). The time from index RCR or SCR to RSA were 94.4 ± 22.2 and 89.2 ±5.3 months, respectively (p=0.003). Pre- and postoperative range of motion were similar between groups, as was the overall change in forward flexion (p=0.879), abduction (p=0.971), and external rotation (p=0.968) following RSA. The RCR group had lower postoperative VAS pain (p=0.009), higher SANE (p=0.015), higher ASES (p=0.008) and higher WOOS (p=0.018) scores. The percentage achieving the MCID (p=0.676) and SCB (p>0.999) were similar; however, 56.7% of the RCR group met the SANE PASS threshold compared to 0.0% in the SCR group (p=0.005). There were no differences in postoperative complications (p=0.698) or revision rates (p=0.308) following RSA between cohorts.
Conclusion: When matched for number of previous procedures to the ipsilateral extremity and age, patients who underwent RSA following failed SCR had worse clinical outcome scores compared to their RSA following failed RCR counterparts. No patient in the SCR group met SANE PASS threshold, while over half of the RCR group did.
Résumé
Introduction
Depuis la proposition en 2012 de Mihata de reconstruire sous arthroscopie la capsule supérieure des patients ayant une rupture massive irréparable de la coiffe, de nombreux articles ont rapporté les résultats cliniques de cette technique en utilisant différents types de greffons (autogreffe de fascia lata, allogreffe de derme, xénogreffe porcine de derme ou autogreffe du long biceps).
Objectif
L’objectif de cette méta-analyse était de rapporter les résultats cliniques et radiologiques de ces reconstructions capsulaires supérieures.
Méthodes
Les recommandations PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) ont été utilisées pour mener cette revue systématique. Une recherche bibliographique a été effectuée dans les bases de données électroniques MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase et la Cochrane Library. La qualité des études a été évaluée selon le critère MINORS (Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies). Les critères d’inclusion étaient les études en anglais évaluant la reconstruction capsulaire supérieure.
Résultats
Aucune étude de niveau I ou II ne répondait aux critères d’inclusion. Dix-huit études ont été sélectionnées parmi les 97 identifiées, incluant 637 épaules (64 % d’hommes) avec un âge moyen de 62 ans [IC95 % : 60,3–63,5]. Au recul moyen de 24,3 mois (12–60), les amplitudes articulaires étaient significativement augmentées de 82,6° [60,0–105,2] à 141,9° [109,9–173,8] en abduction, de 113,1° [98,3–127,9] à 153,3° [147,4–159,2] en élévation, de 35,5° [30,9–40,2] 43,4° [35,4–51,3] en rotation externe et de 7,2 [5,4–9] à 9,9 [8,9–10,9] en rotation interne. Les scores fonctionnels étaient significativement améliorés de 5,4 [4,8–5,9] à 1,3 [0,9–1,7] points pour le VAS, de 42,5 [15,7–69,3] à 59,3 [30,1–88,6] points pour le Constant, de 39,0 % [38,1–39,8] à 79,8 % [76,4–83,3] pour le SSV, et de 48,2 [45,2–51,1] à 81,2 [77,2–85,1] points pour l’ASES. Le taux de cicatrisation est de 76,1 % [64,4–84,9]. Le taux de complication était de 5,6 % [1,8–16,3] et le taux de reprise par prothèse inversée représentait 7,1 % [3,8–12,8].
Conclusion
Les reconstructions capsulaires supérieures permettent d’obtenir des résultats cliniques et radiologiques satisfaisants à 2 ans de recul. La faible quantité d’études comparatives de haut niveau de preuve ne permet pas de conclure sur la place à réserver à cette technique chirurgicale dans l’arsenal thérapeutique. Cependant, il semble que la meilleure indication pour cette technique soit la rupture irréparable isolée du supraspinatus en échec de traitement médical.
Niveau de preuve
III Méta-analyse d’études hétérogènes.
Background:
Since Mihata's 2012 proposal to arthroscopically reconstruct the superior capsule of patients with massive irreparable cuff tears, many studies have reported the clinical results of this technique using different types of grafts (fascia lata autograft, dermal allograft, porcine dermal xenograft or long head of biceps autograft).
Purpose:
The objective of this meta-analysis was to report the clinical and radiological results of these superior capsule reconstructions.
Methods:
Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes (PRISMA) recommendations were used to conduct this systematic review. A bibliographic search was performed of the electronic databases MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase and the Cochrane Library. The quality of the studies was assessed according to the MINORS criterion (Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies). The inclusion criteria were studies in English evaluating superior capsular reconstruction.
Results:
No level I or II studies met the inclusion criteria. Eighteen studies were selected from the 97 identified, including 637 shoulders (64% male) with a mean age of 62 years [95% CI: 60.3-63.5]. At the mean follow-up of 24.3 months (12-60), the range of motion was significantly increased from 82.6° [60.0-105.2] to 141.9° [109.9-173.8] in abduction, from 113.1° [98.3-127.9] to 153.3° [147.4-159.2] in elevation, from 35.5° [30.9-40.2] 43.4° [35.4-51.3] in external rotation and from 7.2 [5.4-9] to 9.9 [8.9-10.9] in internal rotation. Functional scores were significantly improved from 5.4 [4.8-5.9] to 1.3 [0.9-1.7] points for VAS, from 42.5 [15.7-69.3] to 59.3 [30.1-88.6] points for Constant, from 39.0% [38.1- 39.8] to 79.8% [76.4-83.3] for the SSV, and from 48.2 [45.2-51.1] to 81.2 [77.2-85.1] points for the ASES. The healing rate was 76.1% [64.4-84.9]. The complication rate was 5.6% [1.8-16.3] and the reverse shoulder arthroplasty revision rate was 7.1% [3.8-12.8].
Conclusion:
Superior capsule reconstructions allow satisfactory clinical and radiological results to be obtained at 2 years of follow-up. Due to the small number of high quality comparative studies available, its true place in the therapeutic arsenal cannot be fully confirmed. However, it seems that the best indication for this technique is isolated irreparable rupture of the supraspinatus, in cases of medical treatment failure.
Level of evidence:
III; Meta-analysis of heterogeneous studies.
Purpose
The purpose of this dynamic biomechanical cadaveric shoulder study was to investigate the effect of Bursal Acromial Reconstruction (BAR) using an acellular dermal allograft on glenohumeral joint kinematics including maximum abduction angle, glenohumeral superior translation, and cumulative deltoid force, and subacromial contact pressure.
Methods
Eight fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders (mean age:53.4±14.2years) were tested using a dynamic shoulder testing system. MAA, ghST, cDF and sCP were compared across three conditions:(1) intact shoulder;(2) massive retracted irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tear (psRCT) according to Patte III;(3) BAR. Additionally, HHc was measured using contact pressure.
Results
Compared to the simulated psRCT, BAR significantly increased mean MAA and significantly decreased ghST (P < .001, respectively) and cDF (P = .017) Additionally, the BAR was also found to significantly decrease sCP when compared to the psRCT (P = .024).
Conclusion
In a dynamic biomechanical cadaveric shoulder simulator, resurfacing the undersurface of the acromion using the bursal acromial reconstruction (BAR) technique leads to significantly improved glenohumeral superior translation, maximum abduction angle, cumulative deltoid force and subacromial contact pressure compared to the irreparable rotator cuff tear.
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to evaluate clinical and radiological outcomes of arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (ASCR) with fascia lata autograft in patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears (IRCT) performed with a single lateral row fixation technique.
Methods
Retrospective case series of patients with large or massive IRCTs for ASCR with fascia lata autograft. Clinical outcomes were evaluated with visual analog scale (VAS) and Constant Score. Healing of the graft was assessed with MRI or ultrasound. Acromio-humeral distance was evaluated with X-rays.
Results
Thirty-one patients with an average age of 61 years and average follow-up of 35 months (from 24 to 51 months) underwent ASCR with fascia lata autograft. There was a significant improvement in VAS (from 7.7 to 0.7), Constant Score (from 36.0 to 78.7), forward elevation (from 115° to 171°), external rotation (from 33° to 50), strength (from 0.3kg to 2.3kg), and acromio-humeral distance (from 6.1 mm to 8.6 mm)(p<0.001). Graft failure was present in 13.8% of patients, as shown by MRI (26 patients) or ultrasound (3 patients). Patients with failed ASCR showed worse Constant Scores (68.5.8 vs 80.2, p=0.007), worse VAS (2.5 vs 0.4, p=0.00002), worse external rotation (20° vs 54°, p=0.004), lower acromio-humeral distance (5mm vs 9mm, p=0.007) and a high association with the presence of Os Acromiale (chi2 p=0.003). No revision or subsequent surgical procedures were required.
Conclusions
ASCR, with autologous fascia lata and single lateral row configuration, is an effective option in irreparable rotator cuff tears, with clinical and radiological improvement.
Background
Because high failure rates have frequently been reported after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) of massive rotator cuff tears (mRCTs), we introduced the technique of ARCR with supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscle advancement (MA). However, for cases where the original footprint cannot be completely covered, additional surgery using an approved artificial biomaterial is performed.
Purpose
To investigate the postoperative clinical outcomes and failure rate after MA-ARCR, with and without our reinforcement technique.
Study Design
Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.
Methods
A total of 74 patients (mean ± SD age, 68.7 ± 7.7 years) diagnosed with mRCT with a minimum postoperative follow-up of 2 years were included in the current study. Of these patients, 47 underwent MA-ARCR with polyglycolic acid (PGA) sheet reinforcement (study group), and 27 patients underwent MA-ARCR alone (control group). PGA reinforcement was performed when full coverage of the footprint could not be achieved by MA alone, but where the latter was possible, reinforcement was not required. Thus, the study group had significantly worse muscle quality than the control group ( P < .05). The pre- and postoperative range of motion (ROM), isometric muscle strength, acromiohumeral interval, and clinical outcomes were evaluated and compared between these 2 groups. Cuff integrity during the last follow-up period was assessed with magnetic resonance imaging, and the failure rate was calculated. In addition, the postoperative foreign body reaction was investigated in the study group.
Results
In both groups, significant postoperative improvements were seen in acromiohumeral interval, clinical scores, ROM in anterior flexion, and isometric muscle strength in abduction, external rotation, and internal rotation ( P < .001 for all). The failure rate of the study group was 12.8% (6 patients) and that of the control group was 25.9% (7 patients). No significant differences were noted between the 2 groups on any of the data findings, even regarding the failure rate. Foreign body reactions in the early period were found in 3 patients, although these spontaneously disappeared within 3 months.
Conclusion
Patients who underwent PGA patch reinforcement for MA-ARCR when the footprint could not be completely covered had clinical results similar to isolated MA-ARCR when the footprint could be covered. Both procedures resulted in significant improvement in symptoms and function compared with preoperatively.
The majority of patients who undergo rotator cuff surgery experience excellent pain relief but return to high levels of function are less predictable and re-tear rates remain an important concern. Certain populations and tear types pose unique challenges. The aim of this focused issue is to provide expert opinion on current and emerging strategies to manage some of these challenging aspects of shoulder surgery.
Background:
While arthroscopic complete repair of massive rotator cuff tears (MRCT) back to their anatomic footprint is preferential, there are cases where this type of repair is not applicable due to the contraction of the torn tendons. In such cases, a non-anatomic incomplete or partial repair can be performed. A number of clinical studies have investigated the clinical and functional outcomes of arthroscopic partial repair for irreparable MRCT. To our knowledge, no systematic review has been published yet to synthetically evaluate these results.
Methods:
Two reviewers independently conducted the search in a PRISMA-compliant systematic way using the MEDLINE/PubMed database and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. These databases were queried with the terms "arthroscopy"[MeSH Terms] OR arthroscopic surgical procedure [Text Word (tw)] AND massive rotator cuff tears [tw] AND arthroscopic partial repair [tw].
Results:
From the 55 initial studies, we finally chose 11 clinical studies which were eligible to our inclusion-exclusion criteria. The mean modified methodology Coleman score was 58/100, whereas it ranged from 41/100 to 78/100. In total, 643 patients were included in this review. All postoperative mean clinical and functional subjective scores, as well as muscle strength of patients treated with arthroscopic partial repair, were found significantly improved, when compared with the respective mean preoperative values. The rate of structural failure of the partial repair, as it was estimated by postoperative imaging modalities, was 48.9%. The overall reoperations' rate was 2.9% regarding the patients who were treated with partial repair.
Conclusions:
Arthroscopic partial repair might be a safe and effective alternative treatment for irreparable contracted MRCT, where a complete repair cannot be performed. The methodological quality of the relevant, available literature is low to moderate; therefore, further studies of higher quality are required to confirm these results.
Objectives
To provide accurate risk estimates of serious adverse events after elective shoulder replacement surgery for arthritis, including age and sex specific estimates of the lifetime risk of revision surgery.
Design
Population based cohort study.
Setting
Hospital episode statistics for NHS England, including civil registration mortality data.
Participants
58 054 elective shoulder replacements in 51 895 adults (aged ≥50 years) between April 1998 and April 2017.
Main outcome measures
The lifetime risk of revision surgery, calculated using an actuarial life table approach and the cumulative probability method. Rates of serious adverse events at 30 and 90 days post-surgery: pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction, lower respiratory tract infection, acute kidney injury, urinary tract infection, cerebrovascular events, and all cause death. Secondary outcome measures were the number of surgeries performed each year and Kaplan-Meier estimates of revision risk at 3, 5, 10, and 15 years.
Results
The number of shoulder replacements performed each year increased 5.6-fold between 1998 and 2017. Lifetime risks of revision surgery ranged from 1 in 37 (2.7%, 95% confidence interval 2.6% to 2.8%) in women aged 85 years and older to 1 in 4 (23.6%, 23.2% to 24.0%) in men aged 55-59 years. The risks of revision were highest during the first five years after surgery. The risk of any serious adverse event at 30 days post-surgery was 1 in 28 (3.5%, 3.4% to 3.7%), and at 90 days post-surgery was 1 in 22 (4.6%, 4.4% to 4.8%). At 30 days, the relative risk of pulmonary embolism compared with baseline population risk was 61 (95% confidence interval 50 to 73) for women aged 50-64. Serious adverse events were associated with increasing age, comorbidity, and male sex. 1 in 5 (21.2%, 17.9% to 25.1%) men aged 85 years and older experienced at least one serious adverse event within 90 days.
Conclusions
Younger patients, particularly men, need to be aware of a higher likelihood of early failure of shoulder replacement and the need for further and more complex revision replacement surgery. All patients should be counselled about the risks of serious adverse events. These risks are higher than previously considered, and for some could outweigh any potential benefits. Our findings caution against unchecked expansion of shoulder replacement surgery in both younger and older patients. The more accurate age and sex specific estimates of risk from this study are long overdue and should improve shared decision making between patients and clinicians.
Study registration
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03573765 .
Background:
Painful dysfunctional shoulders with irreparable rotator cuff tears (IRCTs) in active patients are a challenge. Arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (ASCR) is a new treatment option originally described using a fascia lata autograft harvested through an open approach. However, concerns about donor site morbidity have discouraged surgeons from using this type of graft.
Hypothesis:
ASCR using a minimally invasive harvested fascia lata autograft produces good 6-month and 2-year shoulder outcomes in IRCTs, with low-impact thigh morbidity at 2 years.
Study Design:
Case series; Level of evidence, 4.
Methods:
From 2015 to 2016, a total of 22 consecutive patients (mean age, 64.8 ± 8.6 years) with chronic IRCTs (Hamada grade 1-2; Goutallier cumulative grade ≥3; Patte stage 1: 2 patients; Patte stage 2: 6 patients; Patte stage 3: 14 patients) underwent ASCR using a minimally invasive harvested fascia lata autograft. All patients completed preoperative and 6-month evaluations consisting of the Simple Shoulder Test (SST), subjective shoulder value (SSV), Constant score (CS), range of motion (ROM), acromiohumeral interval (AHI), and magnetic resonance imaging. Twenty-one patients completed the 2-year shoulder and donor site morbidity assessments.
Results:
The mean active ROMs improved significantly (P < .001): elevation, from 74.8° ± 55.5° to 104.5° ± 41.9° (6 months) and 143.8° ± 31.7° (2 years); abduction, from 53.2° ± 43.3° to 86.6° ± 32.9° (6 months) and 120.7° ± 37.7° (2 years); external rotation, from 13.2° ± 18.4° to 27.0° ± 16.1° (6 months) and 35.6° ± 17.3° (2 years); and internal rotation, from 1.2 ± 1.5 points to 2.6 ± 1.5 points (6 months) and 3.8 ± 1.2 points (2 years). The mean functional shoulder scores improved significantly (P < .001): SST, from 2.1 ± 2.9 to 6.8 ± 3.5 (6 months) and 8.6 ± 3.5 (2 years); SSV, from 33.0% ± 17.4% to 55.7% ± 25.6% (6 months) and 70.0% ± 23.0% (2 years); CS, from 17.5 ± 13.4 to 42.5 ± 14.9 (6 months) and 64.9 ± 18.0 (2 years). The mean shoulder abduction strength improved significantly (P < .001) from 0.0 to 1.1 ± 1.4 kg (6 months) and 2.8 ± 2.6 kg (2 years). The mean AHI improved from 6.4 ± 3.3 mm to 8.0 ± 2.5 mm (6 months) and decreased to 7.1 ± 2.5 mm (2 years). This 0.7 ± 1.5–mm overall decrease was statistically significant (P = .042). At 6 months, 20 of 22 patients (90.9%) had no graft tears. At 2 years, 12 of 21 patients (57.1%) were bothered by their harvested thigh, 16 (76.2%) noticed donor site changes, 16 (76.2%) considered that the shoulder surgery’s end result compensated for the thigh’s changes, and 18 (85.7%) would undergo the same surgery again.
Conclusion:
ASCR using a minimally invasive harvested fascia lata autograft produced good 6-month and 2-year shoulder outcomes in IRCTs, with low-impact thigh morbidity at 2 years.
Massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCTs) provide a significant dilemma for orthopaedic surgeons. One treatment option for MIRCTs is reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. However, other methods of treating these massive tears have been developed. A search of the current literature on nonoperative management, arthroscopic debridement, partial repair, superior capsular reconstruction (SCR), graft interposition, balloon spacer arthroplasty, trapezius transfer, and latissimus dorsi transfer for MIRCTs was performed. Studies that described each surgical technique and reported on clinical outcomes were included in this review. Arthroscopic debridement may provide pain relief by removing damaged rotator cuff tissue, but no functional repair is performed. Partial repair has been suggested as a technique to restore shoulder functionality by repairing as much of the rotator cuff tendon as possible. This technique has demonstrated improved clinical outcomes but also fails at a significantly high rate. SCR has recently gained interest as a method to prohibit superior humeral head translation and has been met with encouraging early clinical outcomes. Graft interposition bridges the gap between the retracted tendon and humerus. Balloon spacer arthroplasty has also been recently proposed and acts to prohibit humeral head migration by placing a biodegradable saline-filled spacer between the humeral head and acromion; it has been shown to provide good clinical outcomes. Both trapezius and latissimus dorsi transfer techniques involve transferring the tendon of these respective muscles to the greater tuberosity of the humerus; these 2 techniques have shown promising restoration in shoulder function, especially in a younger, active population. Arthroscopic debridement, partial repair, SCR, graft interposition, balloon spacer arthroplasty, trapezius transfer, and latissimus dorsi transfer have all been shown to improve clinical outcomes for patients presenting with MIRCTs. Randomized controlled trials are necessary for confirming the efficacy of these procedures and to determine when each is indicated based on specific patient and anatomic factors.
Introduction:
Arthroscopic superior capsule reconstruction (ASCR) using fascia lata autograft is a new surgical technique developed to overcome irreparable rotator cuff tears. There is little information about graft tear after ASCR and its impact on clinical outcome. This study is to investigate the graft tear rate, pattern of failure, and its correlation with clinical outcomes after arthroscopic superior capsule reconstruction (ASCR).
Materials and methods:
From June 2013 to June 2016, 31 shoulders in 31 consecutive patients (mean 65.3 years) underwent ASCR using fascia lata autograft for irreparable large-to-massive tears. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed before surgery and at mean 12.8 months (12-24 months) after surgery to assess fatty infiltration progression and graft integrity. Graft tear was defined as the loss of graft continuity and was categorized as medial and lateral rows according to the failure location. Acromiohumeral distance (AHD) was pre- and postoperatively measured with the standard radiograph. Pain visual analog scale (VAS) score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, constant score, and physical examination were used to assess clinical outcomes. Average follow-up was 15 months (range 12-24 months) after surgery.
Results:
Mean active forward elevation increased from 133° to 146° (P = 0.011). Mean VAS score, ASES score, and constant score significantly improved: from 6 to 2.5, 54.4 to 73.7, and 51.7 to 63.7, respectively (P < 0.001). There was no remarkable progression of fatty infiltration after surgery. AHD increased from 5.3 mm preoperatively to 6.4 mm postoperatively (P < 0.016). Nine patients (29%) showed graft tear on follow-up MRI: 7 and 2 at the medial and lateral rows, respectively. Although the intact graft group showed better outcomes than the graft tear group (pain VAS score 2.3 vs. 3.0; ASES score 74.1 vs. 69.8; constant score 63.4 vs. 57.9), the results were not statistically significant.
Conclusions:
Graft tear rate after ASCR assessed by MRI was 29%, and failures mostly occurred at the medial row. The graft tear group showed clinical improvement despite the recurred superior capsule defect.
Level of evidence:
IV, case series, treatment study.
Introduction:
Irreparable rotator cuff tear (RCT) presents a difficult treatment challenge for the orthopaedic surgeon. Many treatment strategies with varying degrees of success have been performed over the years. One of the suggested surgical treatment options is the use of a biodegradable sub-acromial balloon spacer.
Methods:
A retrospective study of patients treated with sub-acromial balloon spacer between the years 2011 and 2016 was conducted. Mean follow-up time was 14.4 months. Patient charts were reviewed to evaluate the early clinical results and complications of sub-acromial spacer for irreparable RCTs.
Results:
The study cohort included 24 shoulders in 22 patients. The average postoperative Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 62.4. The average preoperative University of California at Los-Angeles Shoulder score was 10.9 and improved to 15.9 ( p = 0.001). Forty-six per cent of patients were satisfied with their clinical postoperative outcome. We found moderate-strong positive correlation ( r = 0.64) between preoperative range of motion (ROM) and general satisfaction. None of the postoperative radiographs showed an improvement regarding the proximal migration of the humeral head. In total, four (16.7%) patients experienced postoperative complications, and two (8.3%) patients required an additional surgery as a consequence of a postoperative complication.
Conclusion:
Our results show unsatisfactory improvement in patients with irreparable RCT treated with the sub-acromial balloon spacer. Careful patient selection with attention to preoperative ROM should be considered.
Level of evidence:
Therapeutic level IV.
Background:
There has been serious concern regarding the longevity and durability of outcomes of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) in younger patients. It was the purpose of this study to analyze long-term outcomes and complications of RTSA for irreparable rotator cuff tears in patients younger than 60 years.
Methods:
Twenty patients (23 shoulders) with a mean age of 57 years (range, 47 to 59 years) were evaluated at a mean of 11.7 years (range, 8 to 19 years) after RTSA. Fifteen shoulders (65%) had undergone previous non-arthroplasty surgery. Longitudinal clinical and radiographic outcomes were assessed.
Results:
At the time of final follow-up, the mean absolute and relative preoperative Constant score (CS) (and standard deviation) had improved from 24 ± 9 to 59 ± 19 points (p < 0.001) and from 29% ± 11% to 69% ± 21% (p < 0.001), respectively. The mean Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV) had increased from 20% ± 13% to 71% ± 27% (p < 0.001). There were also significant improvements in the mean active anterior elevation (from 64° to 117°), active abduction (from 58° to 111°), pain scores, and strength (all p ≤ 0.001). Clinical outcomes did not significantly deteriorate beyond 10 years and the functional results of patients with previous surgical procedures were not significantly inferior to the results of those with primary RTSA. The grade of, and number of patients with, radiographically apparent notching increased over time; the mean relative CS was lower in patients in whom the notching was grade 2 or higher (57%) than it was in those with no or grade-1 notching (81%; p = 0.006). Nine (39%) had ≥1 complication, with 2 failed RTSAs (9%).
Conclusions:
RTSA in patients younger than 60 years leads to substantial subjective and functional improvement without clinical deterioration beyond 10 years. It is associated with a substantial complication rate, and complications compromise ultimate subjective and objective outcomes.
Level of evidence:
Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Background
Although recent evidence suggests that any prior shoulder surgery may cause inferior shoulder arthroplasty outcomes, there is no consensus on whether previous rotator cuff repair (RCR) is associated with inferior outcomes after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA).
Purpose
To retrospectively compare outcomes in patients who underwent RTSA with and without previous RCR.
Study Design
Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.
Methods
Patients with prior RCR and those without previous shoulder surgery (control) who underwent RTSA for cuff tear arthropathy or irreparable cuff tear were retrospectively identified from a prospective database. Exclusion criteria included revision arthroplasty, fractures, rheumatoid arthritis, dislocations, infection, prior non-RCR procedures, less than 12 months of follow-up, and latissimus dorsi tendon transfer. The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, ASES Activities of Daily Living (ADL) score, visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain, Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), and range of motion (ROM) were compared between groups.
Results
Patients with previous RCR (n = 83 shoulders) were younger (mean ± SD, 67 ± 10 vs 72 ± 8 years; P < .001) and more likely to be male (46% vs 32%, P = .033) than controls (n = 189 shoulders). No differences were found in follow-up duration (25 ± 13 vs 26 ± 13 months, P = .734), body mass index, or any preoperative outcome variable or ROM measure. At final follow-up, patients with previous RCR had significantly lower ASES (76.5 [95% CI, 71.2-81.7] vs 85.0 [82.6-87.5], P = .015), lower SSV (76 [72-81] vs 86 [83-88], P < .001), worse pain (2.0 [1.4-2.6] vs 0.9 [0.6-1.1], P < .001), and less improvement in the ASES, ASES ADL, VAS, SSV, and forward elevation measures than controls. Multivariable linear regression analysis demonstrated that previous RCR was significantly associated with lower postoperative ASES score (B = –9.5, P < .001), lower ASES improvement (B = –7.9, P = .012), worse postoperative pain (B = 0.9, P = .001), worse improvement in pain (B = –1.0, P = .011), lower postoperative SSV (B = –9.2, P < .001), lower SSV improvement (B = –11.1, P = .003), and lower forward elevation ROM improvement (B = –12.7, P = .008).
Conclusion
Patients with previous RCR attempts may experience fewer short-term gains in functional and subjective outcome scores after RTSA compared with patients with no history of shoulder surgery who undergo RTSA. However, the differences between groups were small and below the minimal clinically important differences for the outcome measures analyzed.
Background
Massive rotator cuff tears (MRCTs) are very large tears that are often associated with an uncertain prognosis. Indeed, some MRCTs even without osteoarthritis are considered irreparable, and nonanatomic solutions are needed to improve the patient's symptoms. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is an option that can provide a more predictable pain relief and recovery of function. Nonetheless, outcomes after RSA for irreparable MRCTs have not been well defined. The aim of this study was to quantitatively aggregate the findings associated with the use of RSA in this subset of patients and analyze the effect on patient functional status and pain.
Methods
A comprehensive search was performed until October 2015 using MEDLINE, Scopus, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Central Register of Controlled Trials databases. Studies that assessed the outcomes of RSA in patients with irreparable MRCT without osteoarthritis (with at least 2 years of follow-up) were included. If the results of MRCT without osteoarthritis were not possible to subgroup, the study was excluded. Methodologic quality was assessed using the Coleman Methodology Score.
Results
Included were 6 studies (266 shoulders) with a follow-up ranging from 24 to 61.4 months. The mean Coleman Methodology Score was 58.2 ± 11.8 points. There was an overall improvement from preoperative to postoperative assessments of the clinical score (Cohen d = 1.35, P < .001), forward flexion (d = 0.50, P = .009), external rotation (d = 0.40, P < .001), function (d = 1.04, P < .001), and pain (d = −0.89, P < .001).
Conclusion
Patients with irreparable MRCT without presence of osteoarthritis have a high likelihood of achieving a painless shoulder and functional improvements after RSA.
Background:
The management of massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCT) is challenging and associated with high failure rates. There are no current consensus or definitive guidelines concerning the optimal surgical treatment for this devastating condition. This study was designed to confirm the long-term safety and efficacy of the biodegradable inflatable InSpace™ system in patients with massive reparable or irreparable RCTs.
Methods:
In this open-label, single arm, prospective study, subjects with massive RCT underwent subacromial implantation with the biodegradable spacer. Follow-up visits were scheduled according to routine clinical practice. Shoulder function was evaluated using Total Constant Score (TCS).
Results:
Twenty-four patients were treated and assessed. Four patients had partial tears, and in three of them RC repair was performed. These patients were not included in the efficacy analyses. Of the participating subjects who reached the 5-year follow-up, 84.6% of the patients showed a clinically significant improvement of at least 15 points in their score, while 61.54% showed at least 25 points of improvement. Only 10% of the treated patients showed no improvement or worsening in the shoulder score comparing to their baseline. An overall improvement in the total CS commencing at 3 months and sustained by 6 months through to 5 years of follow-up (P < 0.0001) was demonstrated.
Conclusions:
We conclude that in this initial cohort, arthroscopic implantation of InSpace™ system represented an effective alternative to the existing arthroscopic procedures in patients with painful massive RCT refractory to conservative management. Further randomized controlled trials comparing the clinical and functional outcomes after implantation of the InSpace™ device are warranted.
Background The management of massive rotator cuff tears (MRCTs) is challenging and associated with a high failure rates. Studies have shown that advanced age, lower American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status score and concomitant comorbidities are associated with higher risks of death and postoperative complications. This study was designed to assess the safety and efficacy of fluoroscopy-guided biodegradable spacer implantation under local anesthesia, in patients with MRCT and comorbidities completely or partially contraindicating surgeries under general anesthesia. Methods
In this open-label, single arm, prospective study, subjects with MRCTs underwent subacromial fluoroscopy-guided implantation with a biodegradable spacer (InSpace™ system) under local anesthesia. Fifteen patients were treated and assessed. Follow-up visits were scheduled according to routine clinical practice. Shoulder function was evaluated using Constant (CS) and American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) scores. ResultsAll patients demonstrated an overall improvement in the total CS and ASES beginning at 6 weeks and sustained by at least 12 months postoperatively. Of the 15 patients who reached the 1-year follow-up, 85% showed a clinically significant improvement of at least 15 points in their Constant score starting at 6 weeks postoperation and maintained throughout the entire follow-up period. Conclusions
We conclude that in this initial patient’s cohort, fluoroscopy-guided implantation of InSpace™ system under local anesthesia, represented an effective alternative to the existing procedures. This procedure may be considered as a treatment option for elderly patients or for patients with multiple comorbidities complicating or contraindicating surgery under general anesthesia. Technically easy, this technique can be an effective tool in the armamentarium of most orthopedic surgeons. Level of proof: single-arm prospective study, Level II.
Background:
Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) use has largely spread in the last decade. Doubts still exist, however, about its use in the elder population, because of high risk of complications and possibly limited cost-efficiency of the procedure.
Aims:
Our work was aimed at defining the subjective outcome, complication and satisfaction rate, and perceived recovery of individual autonomy and quality of life after RSA, in a cohort of patients 79 or more years old at the time of surgery.
Methods:
Between 2007 and 2012, 52 patients 79 years old or older received a RSA. In the setting of this study, 27 patients (31 shoulders) were available for clinical evaluation. The ASES score was used for subjective outcome evaluation, while the health-related quality of life was studied with the SF-12 form. An ad hoc questionnaire was used in order to evaluate the satisfaction rate and the recovery in individual autonomy.
Results:
At 59,3 months mean follow-up, only one patient required revision due to periprosthetic fracture. ASES score attested at 78.2, and SF-12 scores showed values similar to the general age-matched population. Sensible improvement in perceived quality of life was described by 24 patients. When present, comorbidities were associated with lower results.
Discussion:
RSA outcomes in the elderly are good in terms of function, satisfaction and quality of life recovery. Complications appear primarily linked to age-related conditions and comorbidities show critical association with lower results.
Conclusions:
Our study confirms that RSA represents a useful solution for end-stage shoulder disease also in the advanced age population.
Background:
The rate of retears after rotator cuff repair varies from 11% to 94%. A retear is associated with poorer subjective and objective clinical outcomes than intact repair.
Purpose:
This study was designed to determine which preoperative and/or intraoperative factors held the greatest association with retears after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.
Study design:
Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.
Methods:
This study retrospectively evaluated 1000 consecutive patients who had undergone a primary rotator cuff repair by a single surgeon using an arthroscopic inverted-mattress knotless technique and who had undergone an ultrasound evaluation 6 months after surgery to assess repair integrity. Exclusion criteria included previous rotator cuff repair on the same shoulder, incomplete repair, and repair using a synthetic polytetrafluoroethylene patch. All patients had completed the modified L'Insalata Questionnaire and underwent a clinical examination before surgery. Measurements of tear size, tear thickness, associated shoulder injury, tissue quality, and tendon mobility were recorded intraoperatively.
Results:
The overall retear rate at 6 months after surgery was 17%. Retears occurred in 27% of full-thickness tears and 5% of partial-thickness tears (P < .0001). The best independent predictors of retears were anteroposterior tear length (correlation coefficient r = 0.41, P < .0001), tear size area (r = 0.40, P < .0001), mediolateral tear length (r = 0.34, P < .0001), tear thickness (r = 0.29, P < .0001), age at surgery (r = 0.27, P < .0001), and operative time (r = 0.18, P < .0001). These factors produced a predictive model for retears: logit P = (0.039 × age at surgery in years) + (0.027 × tear thickness in %) + (1 × anteroposterior tear length in cm) + (0.76 × mediolateral tear length in cm) - (0.17 × tear size area in cm(2)) + (0.018 × operative time in minutes) -9.7. Logit P can be transformed into P, which is the chance of retears at 6 months after surgery.
Conclusion:
A rotator cuff retear is a multifactorial process with no single preoperative or intraoperative factor being overwhelmingly predictive of it. Nevertheless, rotator cuff tear size (tear dimensions, tear size area, and tear thickness) showed stronger associations with retears at 6 months after surgery than did measures of tissue quality and concomitant shoulder injuries.
Background
The complications of reversed total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) requiring an additional intervention, their treatment options and outcome are poorly known. It was therefore the purpose of this retrospective study, to identify the reasons for revision of RTSA and to report outcomes.
Methods
Four hundred and forty-one performed RTSA implanted between 1999 and 2008 were screened. Sixty-seven of these cases had an additional intervention to treat a complication. Causes were identified in these 67 cases and the outcome of the first 37 patients who could be followed for more than two years after their first additional intervention was analyzed.
Results
Of 441 RTSA, 67 cases (15%) needed at least one additional intervention to treat a complication, 30 of them needed a second, eleven a third and four a fourth additional intervention. The most common complication requiring a first intervention was instability (18%) followed by hematoma or superficial wound complications (15%) and complications of the glenoid component (12%). Patients benefitted from RTSA despite the need of additional interventions as indicated by a mean increase in total Constant-Murley score from 23 points before RTSA to 46 points at final follow-up (p < 0.0001).
Conclusions
Instability, hematoma or superficial wound complications and complications of the glenoid component are the most common reasons for an additional intervention after RTSA. Patients undergoing an additional intervention as treatment of these complications profit significantly as long as the prosthesis remains in place.
Background:
There have been many clinical reports of patch graft surgery for irreparable rotator cuff tears. However, the retear rate of the patch graft is relatively high because of the lack of superior stability, causing subacromial abrasions.
Purpose:
To compare superior stability among 3 types of patch grafting for simulated irreparable rotator cuff tears.
Study design:
Controlled laboratory study.
Methods:
Eight cadaveric shoulders were tested in a custom shoulder testing system. Superior translation of the humerus, subacromial contact pressure, and glenohumeral joint force were quantified in the following 5 conditions: (1) when the rotator cuff was intact, (2) after cutting the supraspinatus tendon, (3) after the patch graft to reconstruct the supraspinatus tendon, (4) after the patch graft to reconstruct the superior capsule, and (5) after the patch graft to reconstruct both the supraspinatus tendon and superior capsule. While the graft was sutured to the torn tendon in condition 3, the graft was attached to the superior glenoid in condition 4.
Results:
Compared with values for intact rotator cuffs, cutting the supraspinatus tendon significantly increased superior translation (P < .05), significantly increased subacromial contact pressure (P < .05), and significantly decreased glenohumeral compression force (P < .05). Superior translation was restored partially after the supraspinatus tendon patch graft and restored fully after the superior capsule patch graft and after both patch grafts. All patch grafts fully restored the subacromial contact pressure (P < .05) but did not alter the glenohumeral joint force.
Conclusion:
When patch graft surgery is chosen for irreparable rotator cuff tears, the graft should be attached medially to the superior glenoid and laterally to the greater tuberosity to restore superior stability of the humeral head.
Clinical relevance:
The superior capsule patch graft completely restored superior stability of the glenohumeral joint, while patch grafting to the supraspinatus tendon partially restored superior translation.
The aim of this study is to analyze the long-term results and possible complications of the Grammont reverse shoulder prosthesis in the management of recent trauma in the elderly patient.
Two male and 33 female patients of mean age 75 years (range, 58 to 92), operated on for 24 fractures and eleven facture-dislocations, involving the right side in 11 cases and the left side in 24 cases, were included in a retrospective study and were clinically and radiographically evaluated at a mean follow-up ranging from 1 to 17 years.
Eight complications occurred in eight patients (23%): two complex regional pain syndromes, four dislocations, one deep infection and one aseptic loosening of the metaglene. Six patients (17%) had to be reoperated on, without prosthetic replacement in four cases and with revision of their shoulder implant in two. The mean Constant score decreased from 55 to 53 between one postoperative year and last follow-up since patients complained of increased pain and strength loss. This score was 69% of that of the contralateral shoulder. The adjusted Constant score was 68%. Only 58% of the patients were "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with the treatment due to limited shoulder rotations thus preventing proper eating, dressing and body hygiene habits when injury involved the dominant side. Two cases of complete lucent lines surrounding the glenoid component were observed at four and eight postoperative years respectively, a stable inferior bony spur was noted in 14 cases at a mean follow-up of 2.5 years with no functional effects, 20 cases of scapular notching having occurred within two-year follow-up were identified, 10 of which associated with bone resorption and medial proximal humeral lucent lines at the bone-cement interface. The extent of scapular notching progressed with the length of follow-up. Forty-nine percent of the radiographic images were considered abnormal and appeared within seven-year follow-up in 60% of the cases. Clinical and radiographic data comparison revealed a decrease in the Constant score regarding pain, activity, strength and active elevation when scapular notching was associated with abnormal humeral radiographic images.
Despite one single case of aseptic loosening of the metaglene at 12-year follow-up, the results of our series are clinically disappointing and radiographically worrying associated with a substantial rate of complications and reopperations. The long-term functional outcome is far from being identical to the pre-trauma clinical status with a potential evolution toward loss of autonomy when the dominant side is affected. New prosthetic design characteristics and surgical technique improvements should be implemented to improve shoulder adduction but also rotations while preventing the occurrence of scapular notching. In the light of these results, we cannot validate the concept of primary reverse shoulder arthroplasty in the management of recent trauma of the proximal humerus.
Purpose:
To synthesize and report the early clinical and radiographic outcomes associated with subacromial spacer use in patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears.
Methods:
A systematic search on MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases was performed during February 2018. Included studies were evaluated regarding the level of evidence and quality using the methodological index for nonrandomized studies. Patient demographics, intraoperative findings, clinical and radiographic outcomes, and complications were recorded for each of the included studies.
Results:
Seven eligible studies including 204 shoulders from 200 patients with subacromial spacer implantation were identified (6 Level IV studies and 1 Level III study). The mean methodological index for nonrandomized studies score for noncomparative studies was 11, whereas that of comparative studies was 15. The mean age of patients was 67.6 years, and the mean reported follow-up time was 19.4 months. All patients had Goutallier stage 3 and 4 fatty infiltration on magnetic resonance imaging. All studies reported consistent improvement in the total Constant score or American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score over the duration of follow-up. A total of 6 (3%) complications were reported in the included studies. Two studies detailed radiographic outcomes, with discrepant changes in the acromiohumeral interval.
Conclusions:
Patients undergoing subacromial spacer implantation for the treatment of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears have satisfactory outcomes at the 2- to 3-year follow-up with a low rate of complications.
Level of evidence:
Level IV, systematic review of 1 Level III and 6 Level IV studies.
Purpose:
To compare the subacromial balloon spacer with superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) for the treatment of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears.
Methods:
Eight male cadaveric shoulders were mounted on a custom shoulder simulator that permitted quasistatic deltoid and rotator cuff muscle loading. Four shoulder conditions were tested: intact, irreparable rotator cuff tear (torn), subacromial balloon spacer, and SCR. The primary outcomes were superior humeral head migration and functional shoulder abduction force, which were measured at 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90° of shoulder abduction.
Results:
In comparison to the intact condition, the torn condition resulted in a significant increase in superior humeral head migration at 0° (P = .03) and 30° (P = .02) of abduction. Insertion of the subacromial balloon spacer restored the humeral head position such that it was not significantly different from the intact condition (P = .18). Similarly, SCR restored the humeral head position such that it was not significantly different from the intact condition (P = .99). No significant differences were found between the balloon and SCR (P = .99). The functional abduction force was significantly decreased after tear creation (P = .01); however, the subacromial balloon (P = .40) and SCR (P = .99) restored functional abduction force comparable to the intact shoulder state.
Conclusions:
On the basis of the results, both techniques function to decrease superior humeral head migration and to restore more normal glenohumeral joint position and forces during various abduction positions. No substantial differences were identified between techniques at time zero.
Clinical relevance:
The results of this laboratory study indicate that the balloon and SCR both provided mechanical effects that restored the humeral head position from the superiorly migrated location. As such, similar clinical effects can be expected at time zero in patients with massive rotator cuff tears.
Purpose:
The purpose of the study was to investigate the rate and magnitude of return of active forward elevation (aFE) of the arm for patients with severe preoperative elevation dysfunction (less than 45° of aFE and termed profound pseudoparalysis) and massive, irreparable (or partially reparable) rotator cuff tears without arthritis treated with arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (SCR).
Methods:
The period for this retrospective study was October 2014 to October 2016. Inclusion criteria included patients treated arthroscopically for an incompletely reparable massive rotator cuff tear (2 tendons fully torn or tear dimension > 5 cm), preoperative aFE of less than 45° (profound pseudoparalysis) with full passive elevation, an intact or reparable subscapularis tendon, radiographic classification Hamada 0-3, and 12-month clinical follow-up. The primary outcome measure was aFE (degrees) at 1 year postoperative. Secondary outcomes included visual analog scale pain rating (0-10), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, subjective shoulder value, and active external rotation. Graft integrity and Goutallier grade of supraspinatus and infraspinatus at 1 year postoperative were evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging.
Results:
Ten patients met the inclusion criteria. Nine of 10 patients (90%) regained active overhead use of the arm after SCR with preoperative aFE (mean ± standard error of the mean [95% confidence interval (CI)]) 27° ± 2° [95% CI, 24°-30°] improving to postoperative aFE 159° ± 15° [95% CI, 130°-187°; P < .0001]. All secondary outcome measures were also improved at 1 year postoperative (visual analog scale, 4.6 ± 0.8 to 0.5 ± 0.2; P = .001; American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, 52 ± 6 to 89 ± 3; P = .0002; subjective shoulder value, 36 ± 3 to 91 ± 1; P < .0001; active external rotation, 24° ± 7° to 43° ± 8°; P = .002), and 7 of 10 SCR grafts were fully healed by MRI. No complications or reoperations occurred.
Conclusions:
Profound pseudoparalysis of the shoulder (active elevation less than 45°) in massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears without arthritis was reversed in 90% of patients after arthroscopic SCR. Reverse shoulder replacement has been proposed to be the only reliable surgical option in this patient group, but SCR appears to be a valid joint-preserving option for improving function with a low rate of complications.
Level of evidence:
Level IV, therapeutic case series.
Background:
Patients with pseudoparalysis and irreparable rotator cuff tears have very poor function. The authors developed a superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) technique for irreparable rotator cuff tears that restores shoulder stability and muscle balance, improving shoulder function and relieving pain.
Purpose:
To evaluate whether arthroscopic SCR reversed preoperative pseudoparalysis in patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears.
Study design:
Case series; Level of evidence, 4.
Methods:
One hundred consecutive patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears underwent arthroscopic SCR with fascia lata autografts; 7 patients with deltoid weakness from cervical or axillary nerve palsy and 5 with severe presurgical shoulder stiffness were excluded. The remaining 88 were allocated to 3 groups according to their preoperative active shoulder elevation: no pseudoparalysis (45 patients; mean age, 66.2 years; mean tear size, 3.5 cm), moderate pseudoparalysis (28 patients, 68.3 years, 3.5 cm), and severe pseudoparalysis (15 patients, 62.3 years, 4.9 cm). Clinical outcome, active shoulder range of motion, acromiohumeral distance, and healing rate were compared between patients with and without pseudoparalysis, as well as before surgery and at final follow-up (35-110 months).
Results:
American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, active elevation, active external rotation, and acromiohumeral distance increased significantly after arthroscopic SCR among all patients. Graft healing rates did not differ among the groups ( P = .73): 98% (44 of 45) for no pseudoparalysis, 96% (27 of 28) for moderate pseudoparalysis, and 87% (13 of 15) for severe pseudoparalysis. Pseudoparalysis was reversed in 96% (27 of 28) of patients with preoperative moderate pseudoparalysis and 93% (14 of 15) with preoperative severe pseudoparalysis. Both patients with residual pseudoparalysis postoperatively (1 of 28 with preoperative moderate pseudoparalysis, 1 of 15 with preoperative severe pseudoparalysis) had graft tears.
Conclusion:
Arthroscopic SCR restored superior glenohumeral stability and improved shoulder function among patients with or without pseudoparalysis who had previously irreparable rotator cuff tears. In the absence of postoperative graft tear, arthroscopic SCR reversed preoperative pseudoparalysis. Graft healing rates after arthroscopic SCR did not differ between patients with and without pseudoparalysis.
Purpose:
The factors affecting the anatomical and functional outcomes of arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (ASCR) were investigated in this study. Continuity between the posterior remnant tissue and graft, as well as medial-to-lateral anatomical graft continuity, might play a vital role in shoulder stability and functional recovery, which could be correlated with postoperative factors such as the acromiohumeral distance (AHD).
Methods:
Thirty-two patients (36 shoulders) who underwent ASCR were included. The follow-up period was 24.8 ± 6.9 months. The relationship between graft continuity and preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative factors that could affect the clinical and radiological outcomes of ASCR were investigated.
Results:
The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score increased from 50.3 ± 9.1 points preoperatively to 84.0 ± 5.0 points postoperatively (p < 0.01), and the Constant score increased from 56.3 ± 9.0 to 82.8 ± 5.6 points (p = 0.02). Re-tearing occurred in 13 patients during the postoperative follow-up period. The re-tear rate was relatively high (36.1%). The gap between the immediate postoperative and preoperative AHDs was 1.6 ± 2.2 mm in the re-tear (+) group and 3.8 ± 2.8 mm in the re-tear (-) group (p = 0.02). The integrity of the posterior remnant tissue had a statistically significant and different re-tear rate (p < 0.01).
Conclusion:
Care should be taken in patients with inadequate AHD improvement and poor posterior remnant tissue immediately postoperatively, because the possibility of re-tearing is high. Therefore, better results can be predicted when considering these factors at the time of surgery.
Level of evidence:
IV.
Purpose:
This outcome analysis presents 88 consecutive shoulders presenting with irreparable rotator cuff tears that we treated with arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) using an acellular dermal allograft. We also present the concept of superior capsular distance to quantitatively measure the decreased distance present upon restoration of superior capsular integrity.
Methods:
A retrospective review was conducted of patients treated with arthroscopic SCR with a minimum 12-month follow-up. Outcome analysis was performed via an internet-based outcome-tracking system to evaluate visual analog scale (VAS) and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores. Radiographic analysis of anteroposterior radiographs analyzed acromiohumeral interval and superior capsular distance. Digital dynamometric strength and functional range of motion assessments were also obtained. The main inclusion criteria for patients in this analysis was all patients who underwent superior capsular reconstruction during the time period of this report.
Results:
Eighty-six patients with an average age of 59.4 years presented with massive rotator cuff tears (Cofield >5 cm). Outcome data revealed improvement in VAS (4.0-1.5), and ASES (52-82) scores at 1 year (P = .005). Radiographic analysis showed increase in acromiohumeral interval (mean 7.1 mm preoperatively to mean 9.7 mm at 1 year) (P = .049) and superior capsular distance (mean 52.9 mm preoperatively to mean 46.2 mm at 1 year) (P = .011). Strength improved significantly (forward flexion/abduction/external rotation of 4.8/4.1/7.7 lb preoperatively to 9.8/9.2/12.3 lb at 1 year) as well as range of motion (forward flexion/abduction of 120°/103° preoperatively to 160°/159° at 1 year) (P = .044/P = .007/P = .02). At follow-up, 90% of patients were satisfied.
Conclusions:
This analysis reveals that arthroscopic SCR with acellular dermal allograft has been successful in decreasing pain and improving function in this patient subset. Radiographic analysis has also shown a consistent and lasting decrease in superior capsular distance and increase in acromiohumeral interval, indicating maintenance of superior capsular stability.
Level of evidence:
Level IV, retrospective case series.
Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) is performed to reduce the pain and disability caused by irreparable supraspinatus rotator cuff tears (RCTs). In this article, we discuss 9 cases of irreparable rotator cuff tears managed with arthroscopic SCR with dermal allograft. At minimum 2-year follow-up (mean, 32.38 months), the patients were prospectively evaluated on the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) shoulder index, a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, acromial-humeral distance, and ultrasonography. Patients were compared before and after surgery and against historical controls who underwent repair of massive RCTs. From before surgery to 2 years after surgery, mean ASES score improved significantly (P < .00002), from 43.54 to 86.46, and mean VAS pain score decreased significantly (P < .00002), from 6.25 to 0.38. For the historical controls at final follow-up, mean ASES score was 70.71 (P = .11), and mean VAS pain score was 3.00 (P < .05). Mean acromial-humeral distance improved from 4.50 mm before surgery to 8.48 mm immediately after surgery (P < .0008) and 7.60 mm 2 years after surgery (P < .05). Ultrasonography revealed pulsatile vessels within the allograft tissue between 4 and 8 months after surgery. One patient underwent reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) for anterior escape; another had the graft rupture after a motor vehicle accident. Our data showed SCR with dermal allograft effectively restored the superior restraints in the glenohumeral joint and yielded outstanding clinical outcomes even after 2 years, making it an excellent viable alternative to RTSA.
Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the short-term outcomes of arthroscopic superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) with dermal allograft for the treatment of irreparable massive rotator cuff tears (MRCTs).
Methods:
A multicenter study was performed on patients undergoing arthroscopic SCR for irreparable MRCTs. The minimum follow-up was 1 year. Range of motion and functional outcome according to visual analog scale (VAS) pain, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and subjective shoulder value (SSV) score were assessed preoperatively and at final follow-up. Radiographs were used to evaluate the acromiohumeral interval (AHI).
Results:
Fifty-nine patients with a mean age of 62.0 years had a minimum follow-up of 1 year. Twenty-five patients (42.4%) had a prior rotator cuff repair. Forward flexion improved from 130° preoperative to 158° postoperative, and external rotation improved from 36° to 45°, respectively (P < .001). Compared with preoperative values, the VAS decreased from 5.8 to 1.7, the ASES score improved from 43.6 to 77.5, and the SSV score improved from 35.0 to 76.3 (P < .001). The AHI was 6.6 mm at baseline and improved to 7.6 mm at 2 weeks postoperatively but decreased to 6.7 mm at final follow-up. Based on postoperative magnetic resonance imaging, 45% (9 of 20) of the grafts demonstrated complete healing. Forty-six (74.6%) cases were considered a success. Eleven patients (18.6%) underwent a revision procedure including 7 reverse shoulder arthroplasties.
Conclusions:
Arthroscopic SCR using dermal allograft provides a successful outcome in approximately 70% of cases in an initial experience. The preliminary results are encouraging in this difficult to manage patient population, but precise indications are important and graft healing is low in our initial experience.
Level of evidence:
Level IV, case series.
Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) of the shoulder has recently gained popularity as an option for joint-preserving shoulder surgery for patients with an irreparable rotator cuff tear. In the absence of glenohumeral arthritis, rotator cuff tear irreparability should only be diagnosed for most patients after a careful diagnostic arthroscopy. Superior capsular reconstruction adds biological, passive, superior constraint to the glenohumeral joint, thereby optimizing the rotator cuff force couples and improving joint kinematics. At short-term follow-up, SCR has been shown to be effective for pain relief and restoration of active shoulder motion, even in the worst cases of shoulder dysfunction (true shoulder pseudoparalysis). The rapid early adoption and expansion of SCR is justified by its excellent anatomical, biomechanical, and short-term clinical results. The techniques for arthroscopic SCR using dermal allograft continue to improve; however, the operation remains technically demanding. Patients with risk factors for irreparability and who might benefit from reconstruction of the superior capsule should be counseled about the operation as an additional, joint-preserving procedure that can be done in conjunction with arthroscopic, partial rotator cuff repair.
Purpose:
This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCT) treated with an arthroscopic partial repair, as well as the preoperative factors that may be related to greater improvement of clinical outcomes at short-term follow-up.
Methods:
We retrospectively reviewed patients with irreparable RCT who underwent arthroscopic partial rotator cuff repair between January 2011 and April 2014. Minimal follow-up of 24 months was required. Partial repair was defined as repairing the less retracted posterosuperior rotator cuff with a residual defect of the tendon-footprint junction. Tearing involving the subscapularis tendon was excluded. Factors collected included age, sex, diabetes, smoking, night pain, duration of symptoms, pain visual analog scale (VAS) score, acromiohumeral distance (AHD), and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score. Magnetic resonance images without intra-articular contrast were assessed for healing 6 months after surgery for all patients. Functional outcome was evaluated with ASES score. Degree of functional improvement was defined as the difference of ASES scores pre- and postoperatively (d-ASES). Paired t-test and simple linear analysis were used for statistical analysis.
Results:
Thirty-seven patients were included with a mean follow-up period of 29.6 ± 6.6 months. VAS score improved from 5.22 to 1.51 (P < .001). ASES score improved from 46.0 to 78.6 (P < .001). The incidence of night pain improved from 70.3% to 8.1% (P < .001). Only a preoperative lower ASES score, higher VAS score, and night pain were related to the higher d-ASES score (P < .001, P = .005, P = .017, respectively). The rate of repair failure was 41.6% at a mean follow-up of 6.4 months.
Conclusions:
Arthroscopic partial repair of irreparable RCTs is an effective treatment to improve the shoulder function and decrease the pain, despite the high repair failure rate of 41.6%. Patients with preoperative lower functional score, higher VAS score, or night pain experienced a greater degree of functional improvement from the surgery. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic case series.
Purpose:
To evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcome of a biodegradable subacromial spacer in the treatment of massive irreparable rotator cuff tear.
Methods:
Between January 2011 and December 2014, all shoulders with symptomatic massive irreparable rotator cuff tears treated at our institution with arthroscopic implantation of a biodegradable subacromial spacer followed for at least 1 year were included in our series. Patients with osteoarthritis ≥ grade 3 in the Hamada classification were excluded. Outcome measures included pre- and postoperative, range of motion, Constant score, acromiohumeral distance, and Hamada classification on anteroposterior and lateral radiographs.
Results:
Thirty-nine consecutive shoulders (37 patients) met the inclusion criteria. The mean age of patients was 69.8 (53-84) years. At the last follow-up (mean 32.8 ± 12.4 months), range of motion was significantly increased for all patients in anterior elevation (from 130° to 160°, P = .02), abduction (from 100° to 160°, P = .01), and external rotation (from 30° to 45°, P = .0001). The mean Constant score was also significantly (P < .001) improved from 44.8 (±15.2) preoperatively to 76.0 (±17.1) at the last follow-up. The mean acromiohumeral distance significantly (P = .002) decreased from 8.2 mm (±3.4) to 6.2 mm (±3.1) at the last follow-up. The Hamada score progressed of 1 radiographic stage in 4 shoulders (15%) and progressed of 3 stages in 2 (4%), whereas the other 32 shoulders remained stable. No intra- or postoperative complications were found except for 1 patient who required a revision for spacer migration.
Conclusions:
Arthroscopic implantation of a subacromial spacer for irreparable rotator cuff tear leads to significant improvement in shoulder function at a minimum of 1 year postoperatively.
Level of evidence:
Level IV, therapeutic case series; treatment study.
Background:
Rotator cuff tears are one of the most common conditions affecting the shoulder. Because of the difficulty in managing massive rotator cuff tears and the inability of standard techniques to prevent arthropathy, surgeons have developed several novel techniques to improve outcomes and ideally alter the natural history.
Purpose:
To systematically review the existing literature and analyze reported outcomes to evaluate the effectiveness of using a bridging graft reconstruction technique to treat large to massive irreparable rotator cuff tears.
Study design:
Systematic review.
Methods:
A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and CENTRAL was employed with the key terms "tear," "allograft," and "rotator cuff." Eligibility was determined by a 3-phase screening process according to the outlined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Data in relation to the primary and secondary outcomes were summarized. The results were synthesized according to the origin of the graft and the level of evidence.
Results:
Fifteen studies in total were included in this review: 2 comparative studies and 13 observational case series. Both the biceps tendon and the fascia lata autograft groups had significantly superior structural integrity rates on magnetic resonance imaging at 12-month minimum follow-up when compared with their partial primary repair counterparts (58% vs 26%, P = .036; 79% vs 58%, P < .05), respectively. Multiple noncomparative case series investigating allografts, xenografts, and synthetic materials for bridging reconstruction of large to massive rotator cuff tears demonstrated high structural healing rates (74%-90%, 73%-100%, and 60%-90%, respectively). Additionally, both comparative studies and case series demonstrated a general improvement of patients' functional outcome scores.
Conclusion:
Using a graft for an anatomic bridging rotator cuff repair results in improved function on objective testing and may be functionally better than nonanatomic or partial repair of large to massive rotator cuff tears. Allograft or xenograft techniques appear to be favorable options, given demonstrated functional improvement, imaging-supported graft survival, and lack of harvest complication risk. More high-quality randomized controlled studies are needed to further assess this technique.
Background:
This study reports the outcomes of reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) in patients younger than 55 years with midterm to long-term follow-up.
Methods:
Sixty-seven patients (average age, 47.9 years; range, 21-54 years) were identified who underwent RSA with an average 62.3 months of follow-up (24-144 months). There were 35 patients (group 1) who had a failed arthroplasty and 32 patients (group 2) who underwent primary RSA. Clinical outcomes included the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Simple Shoulder Test (SST) score, and range of motion. Complications included radiographic failures (fracture, dislocation, notching, loosening), infections, and nerve palsies.
Results:
Group 1 showed significant improvements in flexion and abduction but not in external or internal rotation. Group 2 showed significant improvements in flexion, abduction, and internal rotation but not in external rotation. Both groups showed significant improvements in ASES and SST scores. In group 1, ASES score improved from 24.4 to 40.8 (P = .003), and SST score improved from 1.3 to 3.2 (P = .043). In group 2, ASES score improved from 28.1 to 58.6 (P < .001), and SST score improved from 1.3 to 4.5 (P = .004). The total complication rate was 22.4%. The total reoperation rate was 13.4%, and the revision rate was 8.9%. The implant retention rate was 91% at last follow-up.
Conclusion:
RSA in patients younger than 55 years provides significant clinical improvements with high implant retention at up to 12 years. Patients undergoing revision RSA begin with worse function than those undergoing primary RSA, but they can expect similar degrees of improvement. Complications were higher but reoperation rates were lower in the revision group. No mechanical failures occurred in the primary group, with infection the cause of all revisions.
Tears of the rotator cuff are frequent. An estimated 250,000 to 500,000 repairs are performed annually in the United States. Rotator cuff repairs have been successful despite fatty infiltration and atrophy of the rotator cuff muscles. Although the emphasis in rotator cuff repair has historically focused on re-establishing the tendon attachment, there is growing interest in and understanding of the role of the superior capsule. The superior capsule is attached to the undersurface of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscle-tendon units, and it resists superior translation of the humeral head. Herein, we propose that it is the defect in the superior capsule that is the “essential lesion” in a superior rotator cuff tear, as opposed to the defect in the rotator cuff itself. We propose that rotator cuff repair must restore the normal capsular anatomy to provide normal biomechanics of the joint and thus a positive clinical outcome.
Background:
Patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears have a defect of the superior capsule, which creates discontinuity of the shoulder capsule in the transverse direction (anterior-posterior direction). This effect is one of the causes underlying shoulder instability after rotator cuff tears.
Purpose/hypothesis:
The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of anterior and posterior continuity on shoulder biomechanics after superior capsule reconstruction (SCR). The hypothesis was that capsular continuity in the transverse direction would improve glenohumeral stability after SCR.
Study design:
Controlled laboratory study.
Methods:
Seven fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders were tested by using a custom shoulder testing system. Subacromial peak contact pressure, glenohumeral superior translation, glenohumeral compression force, and glenohumeral range of motion (ROM) were compared among 5 conditions: (1) intact shoulder, (2) simulated irreparable supraspinatus tendon tear, (3) SCR without side-to-side suturing, (4) SCR with posterior side-to-side suturing, and (5) SCR with both anterior and posterior side-to-side suturing.
Results:
The creation of an irreparable supraspinatus tear significantly increased glenohumeral superior translation (0° of abduction: 254% of intact [P = .04]; 30° of abduction: 200% of intact [P = .04]) and subacromial peak contact pressure (0° of abduction: 302% of intact [P = .0001]; 30° of abduction: 239% of intact [P = .0006]), decreased glenohumeral compression force (0° of abduction: 85% of intact [P = .004]; 30° of abduction: 87% of intact [P = .0002]; 60° of abduction: 88% of intact [P = .0001]), and increased total ROM (0° of abduction: 16° increase [P = .008]). SCR without side-to-side suturing significantly decreased subacromial peak contact pressure (0° of abduction: 79% of intact [P = .0001]; 30° of abduction: 91% of intact [P = .001]; 60° of abduction: 55% of intact [P = .04]) but did not inhibit glenohumeral superior translation. By adding posterior side-to-side sutures, both glenohumeral superior translation (0° of abduction: 93% of intact [P = .02]; 30° of abduction: 110% of intact [P = .04]) and subacromial peak contact pressure decreased significantly (0° of abduction: 56% of intact [P = .0001]; 30° of abduction: 83% of intact [P = .0003]; 60° of abduction: 46% of intact [P = .04]). Neither SCR with nor SCR without side-to-side suturing ameliorated the tear-associated decrease in glenohumeral compression force and increase in total ROM. Adding anterior side-to-side sutures did not change any measurements compared with SCR with posterior side-to-side suturing.
Conclusion:
SCR with side-to-side suturing completely restored the superior stability of the shoulder joint by establishing posterior continuity between the graft, residual infraspinatus tendon, and underlying shoulder capsule.
Clinical relevance:
Side-to-side suturing between the graft, residual infraspinatus tendon, and underlying shoulder capsule is recommended for SCR in patients with irreparable supraspinatus tendon tears to restore superior stability after surgery.
Purpose:
To investigate the effects of graft length and thickness on shoulder biomechanics after superior capsule reconstruction.
Methods:
Subacromial peak contact pressure and glenohumeral superior translation were measured at 0°, 30°, and 60° of glenohumeral abduction in 8 fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders under 5 conditions: (1) intact shoulder; (2) irreparable supraspinatus tendon tear, (3) superior capsule reconstruction with a fascia lata allograft 4-mm thick and 15 mm longer than the distance from the superior glenoid to the lateral edge of the greater tuberosity, as determined during placement at 30° of glenohumeral abduction; (4) superior capsule reconstruction with a fascia lata allograft 8-mm thick and with the same 15 mm relative length determined at 10° of glenohumeral abduction, and (5) superior capsule reconstruction with a fascia lata allograft 8-mm thick and with the 15-mm relative length determined at 30° of glenohumeral abduction. To investigate the effect of graft thickness, we compared the data from conditions 1, 2, 3, and 5. To assess the effect of graft length, we compared conditions 1, 2, 4, and 5.
Results:
With superior capsule reconstruction using a 4-mm graft, subacromial peak contact pressure (but not superior translation) was significantly lower than with irreparable supraspinatus tears (at 0° abduction: 259% decrease; P = .0002; at 30° abduction: 113% decrease; P = .01). The superior capsule reconstruction using an 8-mm graft significantly decreased both subacromial peak contact pressure (at 0° abduction: 246% decrease, P = .0002; at 30° abduction: 158% decrease; P = .0008; at 60° abduction: 57% decrease; P = .04) and superior translation (at 0° abduction: 135% decrease; P = .02; at 30° abduction; 130% decrease; P = .004). Graft length with placement at 10° glenohumeral abduction was 5 mm greater than that at 30° abduction. The 8-mm superior capsule reconstruction performed at 10° or 30° of glenohumeral abduction significantly decreased subacromial peak contact pressure (placement at 10° and 30°: 0° abduction, P = .0002 and .0002, respectively; 30° abduction, P = .0004 and .0005, respectively; 60° abduction, P = .04 and .04, respectively) and superior translation (placement at 10° and 30°; 0° abduction, P =.04 and .02, respectively; 30° abduction, P = .02 and .004, respectively) compared with irreparable supraspinatus tears.
Conclusions:
Superior capsule reconstruction normalized the superior stability of the shoulder joint when the graft was attached at 10° or 30° of glenohumeral abduction. An 8-mm-thick graft of fascia lata had greater stability than did a 4-mm-thick graft.
Clinical relevance:
Grafts 8-mm thick and attached at 15° to 45° of shoulder abduction (equal to 10° to 30° of glenohumeral abduction) biomechanically restore shoulder stability during superior capsule reconstruction using fascia lata.
The ideal graft for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction should reproduce the complex anatomy of the ACL, provide the same biomechanical properties as the native ACL, permit strong and secure fixation, promote rapid biological incorporation, and minimize donor site morbidity. While numerous graft alternatives, both autogenous and allogenic, have been successfully used, an ideal graft with all of these characteristics does not exist. This article represents a review of the most popular graft choices used for ACL reconstruction with a focus on their biomechanical properties, potential morbidities, and clinical outcomes.
Arthroscopic partial repair is a treatment option in irreparable large-to-massive rotator cuff tears without arthritic changes. However, there are indications that arthroscopic partial repair does not yield satisfactory outcomes.
To report the clinical and radiographic results of arthroscopic partial repairs in patients with irreparable large-to-massive cuff tears. In addition, an analysis was performed regarding preoperative factors that may influence patient outcomes and patient-rated satisfaction over time.
Case series; Level of evidence, 4.
From 2005 to 2011, a total of 31 patients who underwent arthroscopic partial repair for irreparable large-to-massive cuff tears were retrospectively evaluated. Partial repair was defined as posterior cuff tissue repair with or without subscapularis tendon repair to restore the transverse force couple of the cuff. Pain visual analog scale (PVAS), questionnaire results (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons [ASES] and Simple Shoulder Test [SST]), and radiographic changes (acromiohumeral distance and degenerative change) were assessed preoperatively, at first follow-up (roughly 1 year postoperatively), and at final follow-up (>2 years postoperatively). Patients rated their satisfaction level at each postoperative follow-up as well. Preoperative factors that might influence outcomes, such as patient demographics, tear size, and fatty infiltration, were investigated.
The preoperative, first follow-up, and final follow-up results for mean PVAS (5.13, 2.13, and 3.16, respectively) and questionnaires (ASES: 41.97, 76.37, and 73.78; SST: 3.61, 6.33, and 6.07, respectively) improved significantly (all P < .05). Radiographic evaluation showed no difference compared with preoperative status. Nevertheless, patient-rated satisfaction at final evaluation was inferior: 16 good responses ("very satisfied" and "satisfied") and 15 poor responses ("rather the same" and "dissatisfied"). Despite initial improvements in both groups (P < .05), patients with poor satisfaction demonstrated statistically significant deterioration in mean PVAS (from 2.07 to 4.67), questionnaire scores (ASES: from 74.56 to 59.80; SST: from 5.11 to 3.81), and acromiohumeral distance (from 7.19 to 5.06 mm) between the first and final follow-up (all P < .05). Patients with good satisfaction showed no significant difference or they improved (P > .05) from the first to the final follow-up. Among preoperative factors, fatty infiltration of the teres minor was identified as the only statistically significant factor affecting patient-rated satisfaction (P = .007).
This study showed that arthroscopic partial repair may produce initial improvement in selected outcomes at 2-year follow-up. However, about half of the patients in the study were not satisfied with their outcomes, which had deteriorated over time. Preoperative fatty infiltration of the teres minor was the only factor that correlated with worse final outcomes and poor satisfaction after arthroscopic partial repair.
© 2015 The Author(s).
Arthroscopy: The Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery, Vol 19, No 4 (April), 2003: pp 421–425
The correlation between the structural integrity of rotator cuff repair and the clinical outcome for the patient remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between patient function and structural integrity of the rotator cuff after repair.
A systematic review and a meta-analysis were conducted for Level-I and Level-II studies showing outcome measures after rotator cuff repair and an imaging assessment of the structural integrity of the repair. Data extracted included patient demographics, tear size, repair type, clinical outcome measures, and repair integrity. Statistical analysis was performed to compare outcomes in patients on the basis of the structural integrity of repair at the time of the latest follow-up.
Fourteen studies met inclusion criteria and were included in the latest analysis. Of the 861 patients who underwent rotator cuff repair with a minimum of a one-year follow-up, 674 patients (78.3%) had intact repairs at the time of latest follow-up. There was no difference in tear size between patients with intact repairs and those with retears (p = 0.866). The University of California Los Angeles shoulder score, the Constant score, and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score increased and the visual analog scale score decreased in patients regardless of the structural integrity of the repair. Patients with intact repairs had higher Constant scores by 8.93 points (p < 0.0001) and higher University of California Los Angeles shoulder scores by 2.95 points (p = 0.0004). Postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores were no different in patients with intact repairs or retears (p = 0.15). Postoperative visual analog scale scores were 0.93 points lower in patients with intact repairs (p = 0.01). Patients with intact repairs had increased strength in forward elevation by 2.40 kilograms (5.29 pounds) (p < 0.00001) and had a trend toward increased strength in shoulder external rotation (p = 0.06). Although these results are significant, the differences are not clinically important on the basis of the validation of these outcome measures.
The results of this study suggest that there is not a clinically important difference in validated functional outcome scores or pain for patients who have undergone rotator cuff repair regardless of the structural integrity of the repair. Patients with intact repairs do have significantly greater strength than those with retears.
Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
UPDATE The print version of this article has an error that has been corrected. The doi number for the paper, which was given as "doi:10.2106/JBJS.L.00005," has been corrected and is now given as "doi:10.2106/JBJS.L.10005."
Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is an accepted treatment that provides reproducible results in the treatment of shoulder arthritis and rotator cuff deficiency. Concerns over the longevity of the prosthesis have resulted in this procedure being reserved for the elderly. There are limited data in the literature with regard to outcomes in younger patients. We report on the early outcomes of RSA in a group of patients who were sixty years or younger and who were followed for a minimum of two years.
A retrospective multicenter review of sixty-six patients (sixty-seven RSAs) with a mean age of 52.2 years was performed. The indications included rotator cuff insufficiency (twenty-nine), massive rotator cuff disorder with osteoarthritis (eleven), failed primary shoulder arthroplasty (nine), rheumatoid arthritis (six), posttraumatic arthritis (four), and other diagnoses (eight). Forty-five shoulders (67%) had at least one prior surgical intervention, and thirty-one shoulders (46%) had multiple prior surgical procedures.
At a mean follow-up time of 36.5 months, mean active forward elevation of the arm as measured at the shoulder improved from 54.6° to 134.0° and average active external rotation improved from 10.0° to 19.6°. A total of 81% of patients were either very satisfied or satisfied. The mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score and visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain improved from 40.0 to 72.4 and 7.5 to 3.0, respectively. The ability to achieve postoperative forward arm elevation of at least 100° was the only significant predictor of overall patient satisfaction (p < 0.05) that was identified in this group. There was a 15% complication rate postoperatively, and twenty-nine shoulders (43%) had evidence of scapular notching at the time of the latest follow-up.
RSA as a reconstructive procedure improved function at the time of short-term follow-up in our young patients with glenohumeral arthritis and rotator cuff deficiency. Objective outcomes in our patient cohort were similar to those in previously reported studies. However, overall satisfaction was much lower in this patient population (81%) compared with that in the older patient population as reported in the literature (90% to 96%).
Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) has been indicated primarily for patients aged older than 65 years with symptomatic rotator cuff deficiency, poor function, and pain. However, conditions that benefit from RTSA are not restricted to an elderly population. This study evaluates a consecutive series of RTSA patients aged younger than 60 years.
We evaluated 36 shoulders (mean age, 54 years) at a mean follow-up of 2.8 years (range, 24-48 months). Of these shoulders, 30 (83%) had previous surgery, averaging 2.5 procedures per patient. The preoperative conditions compelling RTSA were as follows: failed rotator cuff repair (12), fracture sequelae (11), failed arthroplasty (5), instability sequelae (4), cuff tear arthropathy (CTA) (4), and rheumatoid arthritis (2). Follow-up examinations included range-of-motion and strength testing, as well as Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, visual analog scale, Simple Shoulder Test, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), and Constant scores. Preoperative and postoperative radiographs were reviewed for component loosening and scapular notching. Failure criteria were defined as undergoing revision, having gross loosening, or having an ASES score below 50.
The mean Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score improved from 24.4 to 72.0; the visual analog scale pain score improved from 6 to 2.1. The Simple Shoulder Test score improved from 1.4 to 6.2, and the ASES score improved from 31.4 to 65.8. Active forward elevation improved from 56° to 121°. The normalized postoperative mean Constant score was 54.3. In 9 patients (25.0%), we recorded an ASES score below 50, and these cases were considered failures.
RTSA can improve shoulder function in a younger, complex patient population with poor preoperative functional ability. This study's success rate was 75% at 2.8 years. This is a limited-goals procedure, and longer-term studies are required to determine whether similar results are maintained over time.
Purpose
The purposes of this prospective non-randomized study were to confirm the feasibility of the biodegradable sub-acromial spacer (InSpace™) implantation in patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tear and to determine the safety profile and functional results 3 years post-implantation.
Methods
Twenty patients were implanted with the InSpace™ device and assessed up to 3 years of post-implantation. Improvement in shoulder function was assessed using Constant score, while ease of use of the system was recorded by surgeons as were device-related adverse events.
Results
Twenty patients were available for assessment. Implantation was performed arthroscopically in all patients, and a range of deployment time was 2–20 min. The mean total Constant score increased from 33.4 to 65.4 points at 3 years. There was an improvement of 6.4 points in subjective pain score which commenced at 1 week post-operatively and was sustained until 3 years of follow-up. Also activities of daily living and motions commenced improvement by 9.4 and 7.7 points, respectively. Improvement in power was only evident at 18 months of follow-up but was sustained at 3 years.
Conclusions
Arthroscopic deployment of a co-polymer biodegradable spacer (balloon) into the sub-acromial space for an irreparable rotator cuff tear was found to be low-risk and simple procedure associated with improvement in shoulder function and low rate of complications.
Level of evidence
IV; therapeutic case series
BACKGROUND: The role of reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) in the relatively young individual is currently unclear. Our study evaluates the midterm to long-term results of RTSA for patients aged younger than 65 years with pseudoparalysis secondary to massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, with or without arthritis.
METHODS: Between 1997 and 2006, 46 RTSAs (41 patients) were performed. Mean age was 60 years (range, 46-64 years). At the latest follow-up, 5 patients had died and 1 was lost, leaving 35 patients (40 shoulders) with a mean follow-up of 93 months (range, 60-171 months).
RESULTS: The mean relative Constant score increased from 34% to 74% (P < .0001) and the subjective shoulder value improved from 23% to 66% (P < .0001). Significant improvements were seen in active forward elevation (72° to 119°), pain scores, and strength (P < .001). One or more complications occurred in 15 shoulders (37.5%), with 6 failures (15%) resulting in removal or conversion to hemiarthroplasty (3 with infection, 3 with glenoid loosening). Ten shoulders (25%) underwent partial or total component exchange, conversion to hemiarthroplasty, or removal. Of the 15 patients who developed complications, 9 did not require prosthesis removal or conversion and functional outcome and subjective shoulder value were similar to those with no complications (P > .4).
CONCLUSION: RTSA in younger patients provides significant subjective improvement and substantial gain in overall function, which is maintained up to 10 years. Although the complication rate is high, most can be treated successfully without compromise to clinical outcome. However, it is imperative that the high complication rate is explained to patients, with the risks and benefits carefully considered.
Purpose:
The objective of this study was to investigate the clinical outcome and radiographic findings after arthroscopic superior capsule reconstruction (ASCR) for symptomatic irreparable rotator cuff tears.
Methods:
From 2007 to 2009, 24 shoulders in 23 consecutive patients (mean, 65.1 years) with irreparable rotator cuff tears (11 large, 13 massive) underwent ASCR using fascia lata. We used suture anchors to attach the graft medially to the glenoid superior tubercle and laterally to the greater tuberosity. We added side-to-side sutures between the graft and infraspinatus tendon and between the graft and residual anterior supraspinatus/subscapularis tendon to improve force coupling. Physical examination, radiography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed before surgery; at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery; and yearly thereafter. Average follow-up was 34.1 months (24 to 51 months) after surgery.
Results:
Mean active elevation increased significantly from 84° to 148° (P < .001) and external rotation increased from 26° to 40° (P < .01). Acromiohumeral distance (AHD) increased from 4.6 ± 2.2 mm preoperatively to 8.7 ± 2.6 mm postoperatively (P < .0001). There were no cases of progression of osteoarthritis or rotator cuff muscle atrophy. Twenty patients (83.3%) had no graft tear or tendon retear during follow-up (24 to 51 months). The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score improved from 23.5 to 92.9 points (P < .0001).
Conclusions:
ASCR restored superior glenohumeral stability and function of the shoulder joint with irreparable rotator cuff tears. Our results suggest that this reconstruction technique is a reliable and useful alternative treatment for irreparable rotator cuff tears.
Level of evidence:
Level IV, therapeutic case series.
The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the indications for, and outcomes of, reverse shoulder arthroplasty in patients with massive rotator cuff tears but without glenohumeral arthritis.
From December 1998 to December 2006, sixty-nine patients (seventy-two shoulders) were managed with reverse shoulder arthroplasty for the treatment of irreparable rotator cuff dysfunction without glenohumeral arthritis. The indications for reverse shoulder arthroplasty were persistent shoulder pain and dysfunction despite a minimum of six months of nonoperative treatment, the presence of at least a two-tendon tear, and Hamada stage-1, 2, or 3 changes in a patient for whom a non-arthroplasty option did not exist. Fifty-eight patients (sixty shoulders) had a minimum of two years of follow-up. Thirty-four shoulders had had no previous surgery (Group A), and twenty-six shoulders had had at least one previous surgical procedure (Group B). Postoperatively, patients were prospectively followed both clinically and radiographically. Survival analysis was performed, with the end points being removal or revision of the implant, radiographic loosening, and declining American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score.
Common characteristics of patients managed with reverse shoulder arthroplasty in this study were pain and (1) <90° of arm elevation at the shoulder without anterosuperior escape (n = 40; 66.6%); (2) <90° of elevation with anterosuperior escape (n = 16; 26.7%); or (3) irreparable rotator cuff tear and pain with >90° of elevation (n = 4; 6.7%). The average duration of follow-up was fifty-two months (range, twenty-four to 101 months). All measured outcomes improved postoperatively. For all patients, the average American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score improved from 33.3 to 75.4 (p < 0.0001), the average Simple Shoulder Test score improved from 1.6 to 6.5 (p < 0.0001), the average visual analog score for pain improved from 6.3 to 1.9 (p < 0.0001), the average visual analog score for function improved from 3.2 to 7.1 (p < 0.0001), the average forward flexion improved from 53° to 134° (p < 0.0001), the average abduction improved from 49° to 125° (p < 0.0001), the average internal rotation improved from S1 to L2 (p < 0.0001), and the average external rotation improved from 27° to 51° (p = 0.001). There were a total of twelve complications in eleven patients (prevalence, 20%). The survivorship at a mean of fifty-two months (range, twenty-four to 101 months) was 90.7% for all patients, 91.8% for Group A, and 87% for Group B.
When non-arthroplasty options either have failed or have a low likelihood of success, reverse shoulder arthroplasty provides reliable pain relief and return of shoulder function in patients with massive rotator cuff tears without arthritis at the time of short to intermediate-term follow-up.
Repair of massive rotator cuff tears is technically difficult but often feasible. Technical and biological challenges to a successful repair include inelastic poor-quality tendon tissue, scarring, muscle atrophy, and fatty infiltration. Fatty infiltration of the involved rotator cuff muscles has been identified as an important negative prognostic factor for the outcome after repair of massive rotator cuff tears. Tendon transfer is a good option for young patients and manual laborers with an irreparable massive rotator cuff tear. Arthroplasty can be considered for the treatment of symptomatic massive rotator cuff tears in patients who have glenohumeral arthritis.
Because recurrent or persistent defects in the rotator cuff after repair are common, we sought to clarify the correlation between structural integrity of the rotator cuff and clinical outcomes through a systematic review of relevant studies.
Medline, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched for all literature published from January 1966 to December 2008 that used the key words shoulder, rotator cuff, rotator cuff tear, rotator cuff repair, arthroscopic, integrity, healed, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography arthrography (CTA), and ultrasound. The inclusion criteria were studies (Levels I to IV) that reported outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair in healed and nonhealed repairs based on ultrasound, CTA, and/or MRI. Exclusionary criteria were studies that included open repair or subscapularis repair and studies that did not define outcomes based on healed versus nonhealed but rather used another variable (i.e., repair technique). Data were abstracted from the studies including patient demographics, tear characteristics, surgical procedure, rehabilitation, strength, range of motion, clinical scoring systems, and imaging studies.
Thirteen studies were included in the final analysis: 5 used ultrasound, 4 used MRI, 2 used CTA, and 2 used combined CTA/MRI for diagnosis of a recurrent tear. Statistical improvement in patients who had an intact cuff at follow-up was seen in Constant scores in 6 of 9 studies; in University of California, Los Angeles scores in 1 of 2 studies; in American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores in 0 of 3 studies; and in Simple Shoulder Test scores in 0 of 2 studies. Increased range of motion in forward elevation was seen in 2 of 5 studies and increased strength in forward elevation in 5 of 8 studies.
The results suggest that some important differences in clinical outcomes likely exist between patients with healed and nonhealed rotator cuff repairs. Further study is needed to conclusively define this difference and identify other important prognostic factors related to clinical outcomes.
Level IV, systematic review.
In the elderly, there is no guideline for the treatment of irreparable rotator cuff lesions. The results of open or arthroscopic repair are variable. We hypothesized that the use of a reversed arthroscopic subacromial decompression (RASD) would yield comparable results.
Between January 2004 and December 2006, thirty-eight patients underwent a RASD for irreparable cuff tears in 39 shoulders. The surgical procedure consisted of a tenotomy of the long head of the biceps tendon, a debridement of the torn rotator cuff and a tuberoplasty, without violation of the coracoacromial arch and the acromion.
Thirty-three patients (age 69.9 +/- 7.3 years) were available for clinical and radiological evaluation of 34 shoulders (male/female ratio: 11/22), at a mean follow-up of 38 months (range: 21 months-52 months). Two of 33 patients had required revision surgery, and were excluded from further statistical analysis. In the remaining 31 patients (32 shoulders), the modified Constant-Murley score (CMS) improved from 34.9% +/- 11.6 to 84.0% +/- 11.6 (p < 0.0001). The preoperative mobility did not correlate with the final result. Preoperative pain was found to correlate negatively to the modified CMS at follow-up (p= 0.0038). Although the acromiohumeral height decreased with 2.58 mm +/- 1.68 and the severity of glenohumeral osteoarthritis increased with one grade (Samilson-Prieto classification), there was no correlation with the functional outcome.
We conclude that for irreparable rotator cuff tears in the elderly, excellent mid-term results can be achieved with a RASD.
Understanding the cellular response to a biologic graft used in rotator cuff applications is important because foreign-body reactions and inflammation complications have historically been seen with xenograft-derived grafts. The purpose of this study was to histologically evaluate a biopsy specimen taken from a rotator cuff of a 62-year-old man 3 months after augmentation with an acellular human dermal graft, GraftJacket Matrix-MaxForce Extreme (Wright Medical Technology, Arlington, TN). The graft material was intact and filled with numerous elastic fibers and blood vessels. Extensive host cellular infiltration was evident along the margins of the graft, whereas the more central regions were more sparsely populated. Calcification and infection were not evident. There was little to no inflammatory response. The orientation of the collagen fibers indicated early organization of new tissue. The incorporation of the GraftJacket Matrix-MaxForce Extreme evidenced by cellular infiltration, alignment of collagen fibers, and blood vessel ingrowth shows that this graft exhibits key biologic factors of the remodeling process when used as an augmentation device in rotator cuff repair.