AANA19 Shoulder Access Pass-‘Play it Where it Lies’ and Partial Repair-Dr. Mark H. Getelman, M.D.

‘Play it Where it Lies’ and Partial Repair-Dr. Mark H. Getelman, M.D.

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The speaker discusses managing a challenging case of a large, chronic two-tendon rotator cuff tear in an active older patient with atrophy and poor healing potential. Partial rotator cuff repair, focused on restoring balanced force couples and functional biomechanics, is supported by evidence showing improved outcomes and low complications. However, long-term results may deteriorate, especially with fatty infiltration. The speaker advocates augmenting partial repair with dermal matrix allograft to enhance biomechanical strength and healing, citing studies showing higher healing rates. Overall, partial repair remains a viable, bridge-preserving option, with graft augmentation potentially improving outcomes in difficult cases.

Keywords

partial rotator cuff repair

two-tendon tear

dermal matrix allograft

biomechanical strength

fatty infiltration