Rotator cuff reconstruction and augmentation using polymer, allograft, and xenograft constructs

Rotator cuff pathology is an increasingly common diagnosis as the overall population ages and has the potential to cause significant disability due to loss of function and pain. Patients who have rotator cuff tears that classically have been considered "massive" or "irreparable" represent a specific subset that historically has been a difficult treatment challenge with variable outcomes reported in the literature. A myriad of treatment options have been proposed ranging from nonoperative approaches such as physical therapy extending to major procedures such as tendon transfers and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. Each of these options presents a distinct set of advantages and disadvantages. Over the past 10 years, progress has been made in the use of polymer, allograft, and xenograft augmentation and reconstruction of rotator cuff tears. Although results for these products have been somewhat variable, it is likely that tissue and synthetic matrices will become increasingly more significant and relevant in the treatment of massive rotator cuff tears.

Duke Scholars

Author Alison Patricia Toth Orthopaedic Surgery