What are the joint-preserving surgical options for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears?

Doctor’s answer

For young patients with severe tendon retraction and fatty infiltration but without severe osteoarthritis, joint-preserving options include superior capsular reconstruction (SCR, using fascia lata or acellular dermal matrix to prevent humeral head migration), tendon transfer (such as lower trapezius or latissimus dorsi transfer to compensate for external rotation and arm elevation), and subacromial balloon placement (InSpace). For older patients with severe cuff tear arthropathy (CTA), reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is more appropriate.

This content is for education. Diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation require an individual assessment by a sports medicine specialist.