AANA24 Hip All-Access Pass-GENERAL SCIENTIFIC SESSION: Rotator Cuff 2 and AANA Legacy Session (Main Stage):

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The General Scientific Session on Rotator Cuff 2 featured a dynamic panel debate discussing treatments for a 52-year-old patient with a massive rotator cuff tear, focusing on repair strategies including dermal allografts, tendon transfers, balloon spacers, and reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). Proponents highlighted varied approaches: Rob Hartzler advocated for rotator cuff repair augmented with dermal allografts, emphasizing repair when possible and superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) as a secondary option. Eric Wagner supported lower trapezius tendon transfer for irreparable tears, underlining functional restoration and surgical technique. Joe Abood presented data on balloon spacers, noting their role in pain relief and shoulder function improvement primarily in older patients. Kevin Bonner discussed biologic spacers and partial repairs, highlighting potential benefits and the need for further research. Evan Letterman championed RSA as a reliable, durable solution, especially in cases where other interventions might fail, despite acknowledging its invasiveness and higher complication rates.<br /><br />The session underscored that no single treatment fits all, advocating personalized decisions based on patient factors such as muscle quality, functional demands, and risk tolerance. Panelists debated durability, technical challenges, rehabilitation timelines, and cost-effectiveness. Audience feedback reflected divided preference among SCR, tendon transfer, and RSA, emphasizing the need for individualized care.<br /><br />Additionally, the session included inspiring legacy presentations showcasing the impact of mentorship and education in orthopedics. Stories from young researchers and clinicians highlighted how patient experiences and mentorship foster career development in orthopedic sports medicine. The importance of collaboration, diversity, education, and surgeon well-being was emphasized through initiatives like the Military Advanced Surgical Treatment Program and ANA’s educational courses.<br /><br />Overall, the session combined cutting-edge surgical debates with reflections on the orthopedic community’s legacy, mentorship, innovation, and future directions in patient care and professional development.

Asset Caption

Introduction by Moderators: Paul A. Sethi, M.D., Albert Lin, M.D.

Keywords

Rotator cuff tear

Dermal allografts

Tendon transfer

Balloon spacers

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty

Superior capsule reconstruction

Lower trapezius tendon transfer

Biologic spacers

Partial repair

Pain relief

Shoulder function

Personalized treatment

Orthopedic mentorship

Surgical innovation

Orthopedic education