AANA24 Wrist & Elbow 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 pathology presented a comprehensive debate and discussion involving multiple experts addressing treatment options for massive rotator cuff tears in middle-aged patients. Dr. Rob Hartzler advocated for rotator cuff repair augmented with dermal allografts, emphasizing repair in patients with repairable tears and the value of superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) in irreparable cases, noting its promising midterm outcomes despite technical demands. Dr. Eric Wagner supported lower trapezius tendon transfer for irreparable tears, highlighting better restoration of scapulohumeral rhythm and recovery profiles, supported by technical innovations and case outcomes. Other panelists discussed alternative methods, including subacromial balloon spacers as less invasive options aiding pain relief and functional improvement, though with variable long-term evidence. The role of reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) was highlighted as a reliable and durable last-resort solution with predictable pain relief and return to activity, despite some risks and complications, especially following failed prior procedures.<br /><br />The session further explored biologic augmentation techniques, including biceps tendon anterior cable reconstruction and patch grafts, with evolving evidence and clinical algorithms tailored by patient age, function, and tear characteristics. Various intraoperative cases illustrated decision-making complexities, emphasizing individualized care, repair feasibility, and augmentation strategies.<br /><br />The event concluded emphasizing the importance of personalized treatment selection across a spectrum of surgical options. A legacy session followed, spotlighting mentoring and career impact stories from patients-turned-medical trainees and the broader orthopedic community’s commitment to diversity, education, and collaborative growth.<br /><br />The keynote address by Dr. J.T. Tokish reflected on leadership, mentorship, the evolution of orthopedic sports medicine, military-career parallels, the critical role of teamwork, and wellness factors influencing professional satisfaction in orthopedics. The presentation underscored the enduring legacy of education, collaboration, and service embodied by the Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA) community.

Asset Caption

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

Keywords

rotator cuff pathology

massive rotator cuff tears

middle-aged patients

rotator cuff repair

dermal allografts

superior capsule reconstruction

lower trapezius tendon transfer

subacromial balloon spacers

reverse shoulder arthroplasty

biologic augmentation

biceps tendon anterior cable reconstruction

patch grafts

personalized treatment

orthopedic mentorship

Arthroscopy Association of North America