Clinical Results of Arthroscopic-Assisted Lower Trapezius Tendon Transfer for Massive, Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears

Clinical Results of Arthroscopic-Assisted Lower Trapezius Tendon Transfer for Massive, Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears

This study aimed to describe a modified technique for arthroscopic-assisted transfer of the lower trapezius tendon in a selected group of patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears and to evaluate its short-term results.

Patients undergoing arthroscopic-assisted lower trapezius tendon transfer for massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears will be evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively at 6, 12, and 24 months. Pain intensity will be assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Shoulder function will be evaluated using the Constant-Murley score, the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Score, and the Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV). Active shoulder range of motion, including anterior flexion, abduction, and external rotation, will be measured. Scapular dyskinesis will be assessed by visual observation during active shoulder flexion and abduction according to the Kibler classification. Donor-site pain related to fascia lata graft harvest will also be evaluated using VAS during follow-up. Clinically meaningful outcomes, including MCID, SCB, and PASS, will be calculated based on postoperative clinical scores and patient-reported anchor questions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• patients with massive, chronic (>6 months), irreparable rotator cuff tears;
• patients with no concomitant irreparable subscapularis tears;
• patients who underwent a trial of at least 6-month period of conservative treatment with no benefit;
• patients with a stage 3 or greater degree of supraspinatus muscle fatty infiltration;

Exclusion Criteria:

• patients with glenohumeral arthritis;
• patients with adhesive capsulitis or passive joint motion restriction
• patients with neurologic deficits