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

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The session on rotator cuff management presented a debate among experts discussing treatment strategies for a 52-year-old with a massive rotator cuff tear. Dr. Rob Hartzler advocated for rotator cuff repair augmented with dermal allograft, emphasizing repair's potential even in challenging cases and noting superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) as a valuable salvage when irreparable. He critiqued alternatives such as reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) for being overly invasive, balloon spacer for limited indications, and tendon transfers for limited power. Dr. Eric Wagner supported the lower trapezius tendon transfer, highlighting its restoration of scapulohumeral rhythm and durable outcomes in muscle-deficient patients. Dr. Joe Abood promoted the subacromial balloon spacer as a minimally invasive rehab accelerator with predictable pain relief, while Dr. Kevin Bonner proposed a biologic tuberosity graft spacer as a simpler, durable alternative to SCR. Dr. Evan Letterman championed reverse shoulder arthroplasty for its reliable, durable functional restoration, especially for older patients or those with pseudoparalysis. Panelists agreed patient-specific factors guide procedure choice, balancing repairability, functional goals, and complication profiles.<br /><br />In a related session, Dr. Rachel Frank and others discussed biologic augmentation techniques (e.g., SCR, biceps anterior cable reconstruction, patch grafts) highlighting indications, limitations, and the necessity of restoring rotator cuff cable integrity. They emphasized tailoring treatment based on functional deficit, pain profile, tissue quality, and arthritis status.<br /><br />The legacy session highlighted the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine’s commitment to diversity, mentorship, and the profound impact orthopedic care can have on patients’ lives, as demonstrated by testimonies from former athletes turned medical professionals inspired by their surgeons.<br /><br />Finally, the presidential address by Dr. J.T. Tokish reflected on leadership, resilience, collaborative culture, and the importance of mentorship in shaping orthopedic surgery’s future, underscoring the organization's vision for innovation, education, and well-being among its members.

Asset Caption

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

Keywords

rotator cuff management

massive rotator cuff tear

rotator cuff repair

dermal allograft

superior capsule reconstruction

reverse shoulder arthroplasty

balloon spacer

tendon transfers

lower trapezius tendon transfer

subacromial balloon spacer

biologic tuberosity graft spacer

patient-specific treatment

biologic augmentation techniques

rotator cuff cable integrity

orthopedic mentorship