Treatment Innovations for Massive & Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears (AANA22)-Superior Capsular Reconstruction & Q&A

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The presentation reviewed Superior Capsule Reconstruction (SCR) for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, highlighting Dr. Mihata's foundational biomechanical research showing restoration of superior humeral translation. Clinical outcomes show improvements in elevation and external rotation, with graft healing rates around 75-90%. Key factors for success include patient selection (low HAMADA grade), intact/repairable subscapularis, graft thickness ≥3mm, and careful side-to-side rotator cuff repair. Challenges include high failure rates linked to subscapularis atrophy and fatty infiltration. The discussion emphasized distinguishing muscle atrophy from fatty infiltration, surgical techniques for short tendons, and the limited but cautious use of balloon spacers, with ongoing debate and need for more robust comparative studies.

Asset Caption

Peter S. Vezeridis, M.D.

Keywords

Superior Capsule Reconstruction

massive irreparable rotator cuff tears

graft healing rates

subscapularis integrity

balloon spacer debate